While technology today is helping us connect and grow closer together by shaping our world into a global village. Making our lives easier day by day, there exists a misuse of technology that is drastically affecting businesses of all scale, be it big corporations or blooming businesses. With billions of dollars lost to ransomware, it is one of the biggest digital issues faced by businesses in today’s world of modern technology.
Similarly, the fear of losing valuable files and data leaves these businesses with no option but to adhere to paying the ransom. Further boosting the credibility of ransomware as a method to rob businesses.
But how can you avoid a ransomware situation? The following are some of the ways employees can avoid a ransomware situation.
Avoid opening malicious email attachments or web links
Most email providers host a spam folder in which all malicious emails are directed. One way someone can intrude on your system and hold your valuable data captive is by luring you to open an email attachment or clicking on a web link that holds the virus. It then attacks your system and locks you out of it. With your valuable data encrypted and in the hands of someone else, you are left with no option but to pay the ransom.
Use authentic malware protection regularly
Considering the valuable data at risk by the hands of ransomware, it is only a wise idea to invest in an authentic malware program to get rid of any bugs that may be planted. The use of an authentic malware exceeds beyond just ransomware removal, it can also help get rid of harmful cookies and cache to help speed up your computer and enable it to run smoother. With dozens of malware programs available in the market, some even free. This is one area not worthy of taking a risk. By running a malware program regularly, it helps filter out and remove any malicious content that may be stored in your computer indirectly. Greatly reducing the risk of a ransomware attack.
Keep a copy of the stored data
While a good malware protection software may come in handy for ransomware removal, it is still better to have a back up in-case the perpetrators outsmart you. During a ransomware attack, the options offered to you are blunt: either pay the ransom or lose the data. Paying the ransom is not suggested (if you already have a copy of the stored data) since it only motivates them. Moreover, the safe return of the data is not ensured either. Therefore, it is wise to have your valuable data stored on a cloud or any other external source in case of a ransomware attack. This way, you don’t get to pay the ransom and make do with the backed up data.
Avoid inserting unfamiliar USBs
USBs can be stored with the ransomware that can instantly encrypt and hold hostage your data as soon as you plug it in. Most of the time, the bug intruded through a USB can sneak past your ransomware removal program. Therefore, it is smart not to connect a stranger USB to your device. Especially if you found it lying in a public spot.
