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Ransomware is a type of malicious software that aims to extort money from its victims. It is popularly known as cryptoviral extortion, it encrypts the victim’s files and threatens to publish your data or block your access to it until ransom is paid. The sole aim of this software is to extort money from the victims by denying access to their data.  Most of the times it targets high profile systems such as the police department, multinationals, schools, hospitals and banks, but in the last couple of years it has started to make its way through home computers as well.

Most of us get targeted easily by it through our own mistakes such as opening a website that has a virus or by  opening emails in our junk account which have attachments that infect our system. We all have heard the popular saying “prevention is better than cure”, so there are some tips that we should consider to prevent ransomware. The percentage of ransomware attacks have increased in the last couple of years because no security system is perfect, so it’s crucial to prepare for such an attack by developing a recovery plan.

Here are some tips, which will help you prevent a ransomware attack.

1. Create A Backup System

By backing up your data on a regular basis, you are avoiding the most important risk of losing your

data. You should create more than one copy of your data and store it online such as on cloud

storage while another copy can be saved on your hard drive that will be kept safe with you.

However, don’t forget to keep a check on the files, if they are working properly or not.

2. Don’t Open Attachments That Look Doubtful

Every time you receive an email that looks suspicious, think twice before opening it. This does not

only include senders who you are not familiar with, but other connections too such as promotional

activities, delivery service, banking institutions and digital marketing companies. Dangerous links can

be received through unwanted mail that we might not be aware of.

3. Use An Antivirus System

Enhance your device`s security system by downloading an antivirus system. Try using one which

works on all devices because most of us use more than one device. Security systems that enable

several firewalls on your computer can become a great defense from any type of malicious software.

4. Make Sure To Keep Your System Up-To-Date.

Due to our busy schedules, we are often in a rush and we tend to miss out on a few things such as

updating our computers and the software installed on it. If our computer system is not updated on a

regular basis, it is more vulnerable to these attacks. Malware spreads on the operating system

through exploit kits used on websites.

5. Keep A Strong Password

This is one of the most common ways for hackers to get access to your account because mostly all

websites such as social networking sites and email accounts ask for our password to prove our

identification. Thus, its important to keep a password that will help prevent identity and security

theft. A strong password will not only prevent unauthorized access to your accounts, but also to

your computer.

6. Make Sure To Switch Off Unused Wireless Connections

We also use internet services on daily basis whether it’s on our phone or computer. Most of us

forget to turn off these devices after using them such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. It is very easy for

hackers to use this as an entry point without even getting close to your location. Apply enhanced

security methods to prevent your network from these hackers.

7. If You Suspect Something Doubtful On Your Computer Turn Off The Internet

There are times when we make mistakes by opening phishing emails, clicking on pop up

advertisements or downloading files that are corrupted. Sometimes the damage is already done, but

if you are lucky to spot it in time, then disable your internet connection as it will prevent the

ransomware before it spreads.

Among other criminal activities, ransomware is gaining much popularity so try incorporating the

above-mentioned tips that will help you safeguard your data and prevent you from paying ransom to

hackers.