How Ransomware Infects Computers Explained

What is A Ransomware Attack?

A ransomware attack is a type of computer virus that locks your computer and demands ransom to unlock it. This can be used to steal personal information from your computer and files.

History of Ransomware

Though the notoriety of ransomware has undoubtedly exploded in the 21st century, ransomware in fact dates back far longer that many may assume. With the sophistication of modern ransomware, it may strike some as comical that the first example of this kind of malware was distributed via floppy disk.

Originating in 1989 and designed by an evolutionary biologist by the name of Joseph Popp, the nefarious Harvard PhD researcher loaded up around 20,000 floppies with copies of the ransomware and distributed them to other scientific researchers in 90 other countries. At the time of its unveiling, the new worm contained a key that could be used to open any file on any system and it has affected not only branches of academia, but also people in the private sector.

How Does Ransomware get on your Computer?

Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts files on your computer and demands ransom to decrypt them. It is a very common problem in the world today.

There are many ways that ransomware can make its way onto your computer, though similarly, most of these entry points can be defended with basic education and simple defensive techniques. Keeping your files secure and protected from ransomware doesn’t need to be a huge hassle, nor does it need to cost the world.

The below are just some of the most common ways that ransomware contaminates a computer:

1. Phishing.
2. Spear Phishing.
3. Social Engineering.

How Ransomware Infects Computers :

Ransomware attacks can be used to steal money, data, and can even damage the computer completely. It is very important to understand how ransomware attacks are used in order to make the most effective use of your software to reduce the risk and chances of this type of attack. Specifically, ransomware attacks are used to Prevent users from accessing their files.

One of the fastest growing areas of cybercrime is ransomware A family of malware that takes a computer or its data hostage in effort to extort money from its victims. Ransomware is a growing threat to businesses and governments around the world, and you can help protect your business from it by learning more about how it targets victims.

Here are some of the ways computers and mobile devices can be infected:

• Links in emails or messages in social networks : In the past it was difficult to link from one topic to another in an email or a message. This is because there was no clear structure inside the email and message, which could be used as a guide for linking. In this type of attack, the victim clicks a malicious link in an email attachment or a message on a social networking site.
• Pay per install : Pay per install is a popular method of malware distribution. It works by infecting computers that are already part of a botnet further infecting them with additional malware. Bot herders, criminals who look for security vulnerabilities and distribute the malware, often use this technique to spread the botnet for money.
• Drive-by downloads : Drive-by downloads such as ransomware are gaining momentum because they can be installed without the user knowing. While the cause is often unknown, we can fairly assume that each of the recent attacks is a result of a cyber-attack that began with a compromising website. However, the low probability that each attack will be rooted out and removed by our anti-virus programs leaves them vulnerable to various types of attacks, including drive-by downloads.

Ransomware is difficult to track because many people do not realize they are victims of a crime and even if they do, they are reluctant to report it. But there is evidence that it’s a worldwide cybercrime problem with a high number of victims.

How to prevent Ransomware:

The ransomware attack has been one of the biggest security threats in recent times. It can be a devastating experience for the victims if not dealt with appropriately. In some cases, the ransomware can even grow into a full-blown virus that has the potential to lead to severe damage to computer systems and data.

There are a number of defensive steps you can take to prevent ransomware infection.:

• Keep your operating system patched and up-to-date to ensure you have fewer vulnerabilities to exploit.
• Don’t install software or give it administrative privileges unless you know exactly what it is and what it does.
• Install antivirus software, which detects malicious programs like ransomware as they arrive, and whitelisting software, which prevents unauthorized applications from executing in the first place.
• And, Back up your files, frequently and automatically! That won’t stop a malware attack, but it can make the damage caused by one much less significant.

What are the Myths About Ransomware!

Ransomware is a type of malware that can take over your computer and lock you out. It encrypts all the files on your computer and demands money in order to recover them.

Some people think that ransomware is a security issue and not a threat, but the reality is, it can be both. Ransomware will only work if you pay the ransom or if you are willing to give up some personal information in order for it to work.