What is ransomware exactly?

Intruders can steal our cash using sophisticated methods as technology improves. It is common to receive short messages in the mail or on our mobile device , containing images or software that could "interest us" however, in fact, are viruses that get control over our devices or computers.

For instance, you could put up an advertisement on an online platform for selling a particular product. Within a few hours you get an SMS that offers to swap your product for another and a link to the photos of this product. In actual, if access this link using an Android device, you install an application that transfers all your money to the account of the intruder.

Another method of attack used is to send mail messages that include link text as well as a linkthat encourages users to click the link. For instance, an intruder could promise you a lucrative job, but you have to fill out an application by clicking the link. In the process, your computer or mobile device will be infected by the trojan or "keylogger" that reads information from your hard disk and also records the keystrokes and sends this information to the intruder. The attacker will be able to analyze the data received and determine your passwords. It could be used to steal your personal information or cash.

What exactly is ransomware?

Ransomware is a fundamentally new method of making money for criminals that is built on the human brain. If you click the link, your device is locked and you receive the message: "You must transfer 100dollars to regain access to your device and prevent data loss." "

Typically, when you open this type of link, the program code alters the registry or autorun files, and the user receives this message. If you do make a transfer of money, it will not alter anything, and you will not have access to your device.

Ransomware may also cause severe damages to your computer. It should be noted that malware does not create backups. Your data will be lost forever and nobody will be able to retrieve it remotely.

Therefore, it is essential to utilize anti-virus or specific scripts to restore the system. Never ever pay anyone else!

How can you protect yourself?

It is essential to make sure that the database of antivirus is up-to-date. Most often antivirus programs are able to prevent infection of the operating system.

Then, you should regularly backup your data regularly. For this, you can use a removable hard drive or cloud services. If you lose data from your device, you are able to always retrieve it with no problems.

Well, most importantly - be vigilant. According to statistics generally, malware infects computer or a mobile device when opening an attachment to a letter that is in your mailbox, such as when opening an attached picture. Unknown recipients might send attachments to you that are not appropriate to open. To safeguard yourself against such messages, use temporary mailboxes. They will block your identity online and filter out any suspicious messages. According to research, temporary mailboxes are the least vulnerable to attack of this type due to the fact that their lifespan is restricted.

Summary

Never open mails sent by unknown people and don't open attachments attached to these mails.

Do not send money to an intruder if your device is blocked. Your device will not be unlocked. Utilize antivirus software or scripts to solve the issue.

Use disposable mail as it lets you protect yourself from emails that contain malware.