Not long ago “ransomware” was a term that few outside of IT security circles had ever heard. However, a number of recent ransomware attacks have brought this form of cybercrime to every computer user’s attention. As a leading Northern Colorado internet and email hosting provider, we encourage all of our clients to follow best practices that will help keep their data safe.
What is Ransomware?
Ransomware is a form of software that accesses a computer’s files and locks them, preventing the owner from opening them. The cybercriminal then demands payment in exchange for freeing the files. In some cases, the attacker threatens to make the information in the files public if the ransom demand is not met.
Ransomware: Steps to Take to Stay Safe
In order to keep from falling victim to a ransomware attack, or to recover without paying the ransom, there are a number of proactive steps you can take. They include:
- Use antivirus software. This goes without saying, but a surprising number of people and even some organizations take a “can’t happen to us” approach to cybersecurity.
- Update your software regularly. Cybercriminals frequently exploit bugs in applications, web browsers, etc. Updating these things whenever a new release is available can help prevent unauthorized access to your files.
- Only download software from trusted sources. If you don’t know who produced an application or file, don’t allow it access to your computer.
- Back your files up frequently. Be sure you always have recent copies of your files.
- Report a ransomware attack. Cybercrime is no different than any other. It should be reported to the police as soon as you discover it.
- Talk with your antivirus software provider if your files become locked. Your provider or another cybersecurity expert may be able to help you unlock files affected by a ransomware attack.
Ransomware: Actions to Avoid to Stay Safe
As a long-time Northern Colorado internet provider, we’ve seen many different scams. Here are some things you should not do if you want to avoid allowing cybercriminals access to your files:
- Do not click on links, images, banners, etc. if the source is unknown. By clicking a link in any form — from “click here” text to a clickable image — you are triggering an action. When the link is sent by someone you trust, the action is helpful, such as taking you to a website. When the link is sent by a cybercriminal, clicking it may activate the software that will execute the attack.
- Do not install apps from unknown sources on your mobile device. We live in a highly connected world. A virus enabled on your phone or tablet can quickly spread.
- Do not take security for granted. Even if a link or file appears at a glance to be sent by a trusted source, it pays to take a closer look. Cybercriminals are skilled at mimicking trusted senders in order to gain the confidence of their victims.
- Do not give in to ransom demands. While you may desperately need access to your files, paying ransom rarely works out for the best.
Stay Ahead of Cybercriminals
Ransomware attacks become more sophisticated every day. However, with a little bit of vigilance you can stay ahead of the bad guys and keep your data safe. If you’ve got questions about Northern Colorado internet, email hosting, colocation hosting, or disaster recovery, please drop us a line using the Contact Us form. You can also stop by our facility or call us at 800-935-6527.
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