Although ransomware has existed in one form or the other for more than a decade, it has only gained popularity quite recently due to a number of digital initiatives that facilitate these attacks. These include cryptocurrencies and increasingly growing digital databases of sensitive information. Since, ransomware removal only exists for cleanup after the attack and the only way to recover your data once you’ve suffered an attack is paying the ransom amount; it is advisable to invest in precautionary measures in order to keep it safe than sorry!
Regular backups
The most basic step is to create regular backups of important and sensitive information. Better still, store these backups on a different piece of hardware that is isolated and not connected to the internet. This gives you a viable solution for ransomware removal other than paying hefty ransom amounts in the event of an attack.
Be wary of suspicious emails
Ransomware is mostly spread through email attachments that usually have suspicious looking extensions like .scr or .exe. Some files might even have two extensions at the same time. For example, image.gif.scr. It is important therefore, to refrain from opening emails that look suspicious or have file extensions that you’re unsure about.
Keep your softwares and security up-to-date
Hackers usually take advantage of loopholes in software and application codes in order to gain unauthorized access to your system. Companies that develop these tools therefore, constantly release patches in order to plug these vulnerabilities in the codes. Be sure that you have the latest antivirus tools installed, your firewall is enables and that all your softwares and applications are up-to-date.
Disable AutoPlay and macros
Disable all functions that automatically download attachments or initiate plug and play devices like CD’s and USB’s.
A recent ransomware iteration asked users to enable the macros function in MS Word to open the corrupted files that were used to infect the systems. In view of this, experts recommend keeping the macros function disabled.
Educate your family and employees about the threat
Ransomware is a growing threat around the globe these days with many major organizations and companies like the NHS, FedEx and Maersk reportedly being affected. Therefore, it is important that you train and educate the people that concern you, about the seriousness of the situation and the importance of taking preventive measures. Ransomware removal processes can cause great inconveniences which is why it is important to be careful from the start.
Restrict access
Authorized administrative access is an effective barrier that blocks ransomware from getting access to your system and sensitive files. Hence, it is important that you limit this access as much as possible. Also avoid logging in from random places and staying logged on unnecessarily.
Employ effective filtering mechanisms
Make sure you have foolproof filtering systems in place that sort and filter out suspected files and emails so that your systems remain safe from potential threats.
In the event of a suspected attack, disable the internet and restore your system
If despite these measures you suffer a potential attack or detect suspicious activity, immediately turn off your internet connection. Next, restore your systems from a recent good back up in order to ensure ransomware removal.
These measures despite being effective are not 100% hack-proof. Extreme vigilance and constant system upgrades are imperative in order to make sure you stay clear of the menace of ransomwares. Most importantly, make sure you create regular backups and ensure that they remain clean at all times.
For assistance with file recovery and ransomware removal, please contact MonsterCloud – cyber security experts for a professional ransomware removal.
