Ransomware attacks have increased by 60% in the U.S. from Q4 2019 to Q1 2020, as reported by McAfee Labs.¹ These dangerous viruses lock users' important data until they pay a fee.

They create severe problems like losing data, system stoppages, and big financial hits or reputational damage.¹ With these threats growing, it's essential for both people and companies to take steps before and after an attack happens.

Key Takeaways

• Ransomware attacks work by gaining access to computers or devices, encrypting their data, and demanding a ransom for access restoration.¹
• In 2021, Colonial Pipeline paid hackers a $4.4 million ransom in Bitcoin after a ransomware attack.¹
• Industries perceived with smaller security teams, such as universities, are more vulnerable to ransomware attacks.¹
• Western markets like the UK, US, and Canada are frequently targeted for ransomware attacks due to the potential for larger payouts.¹
• Recommendations to protect against ransomware include data backups, software updates, and cautious internet browsing.¹

What are Ransomware Viruses?

Ransomware is a type of malicious encryption software. It locks up data to hold a victim's information at ransom. Hackers use it to lock a user or organization's important information. This prevents them from using files, databases, or applications.² They then ask for money to release the data. This threat is on the rise and causes 21% of all cyberattacks. It brings in a lot of money for cybercriminals.³ Plus, it can cost both businesses and governments a lot of money and trouble.

Ransomware viruses run in the computer's memory. They make the system crash and slow down.⁴ Hackers often ask to be paid in bitcoin. Ransomware spreads through phishing emails, social media links, and bad websites. Sadly, paying up doesn't often get the data back.⁴

Ransomware has changed a lot since it first showed up. The first notable cases were in Russia in 2005. Attacks really started picking up in 2011.³ Since 2016, antivirus companies work hard to stop these ransomware viruses. There are two main types: locker ransomware stops computers from working, and crypto ransomware hides files.³ Well-known ransomware includes Locky, WannaCry, and Bad Rabbit.³

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F6RnjkuK7NA

Different places see different ransomware messages. These may mention things like unlicensed software. The most common ways ransomware spreads are through bad websites, harmful downloads, or bad downloads.³ Experts don't advise payment.³ But, you can try to remove the ransomware or reset your computer. This may lessen the attack's effects.³

How Ransomware Infects Your System

Ransomware sneaks into systems in a few main ways, phishing and using software holes are the biggest.⁵ Cybercriminals fool people into downloading malware with phishing scams. These can be emails, texts, or messages that look real, making 41% of ransomware attacks.⁵ Then, they use weaknesses in software to get in and install bad software or use infected sites to sneak malware onto devices.⁵

Ransomware makers change their tactics often to get around security and spread.⁵ The first cases were in Russia in 2005 and 2006, encrypting certain files.⁵ Then in 2011, a ransomware type made people call a special SMS number to pay.⁵ By 2012, it had reached Europe and North America, with one attack coming from a popular French website.⁵

Ransomware usually asks for payment in bitcoin to stay hidden. But, even if victims pay, there's no promise they'll get their files back.⁵ To fight the shame and issues from being hacked, companies should report to the police, follow data rules, and fix their security gaps.⁵

Ransomware spreads in many ways. This includes going to bad websites, downloading from ads on those sites, opening spam email attachments, or being put on weak systems through exploit kits.⁵ For example, Reveton ransomware looks like it's from the police and asks for payment through things like UKash or PaySafeCard.⁵ Then CryptoLocker, which emerged in 2013, not only locked systems but also encrypted files, asking for money in exchange for the key to unlock them.⁵

Ransomware Viruses: Protect Your Data

To guard your data from ransomware, having a data backups and recovery plan is key. Regular backups to cloud storage and external hard drives are crucial. They can restore your data if it's locked by ransomware.¹

It's vital to keep your operating systems and software updated for security. Using strong, unique passwords and two-factor authentication lowers the attack risk.¹ Also, be wary of unknown links and downloads, and use only secure networks. This will help dodge ransomware infections.¹

Ransomware targets many, including smaller security teams in universities, or fast-to-pay groups like government agencies. It also hits firms with important data, law offices, and those expecting big payouts in the West.¹ For instance, in 2021, Colonial Pipeline in the U.S. paid a $4.4 million ransom in Bitcoin. After the attack, they could recover some of that ransom.¹ Cybercriminals use this method to exploit and demand payment for hostage personal data.¹

Installing trusted ransomware protection software and keeping all systems up to date is wise.¹ Storing backups externally ensures you can access files during an attack.¹ Cloud services are beneficial because they keep old file versions. This way, you might recover an unencrypted copy.¹

Experts advise against paying the ransom. There's no surety you'll get your data back, even if you pay.¹ Preventing attacks involves using strong security software and being careful with email attachments. If an email seems suspicious, avoid opening attachments or enabling macros.¹

Responding to a Ransomware Attack

If you face a ransomware attack, take quick action. First, isolate any devices with the malware to stop it from spreading.⁶ Next, change your passwords everywhere, since your data might have been leaked.⁷ You should also tell the authorities, like your local FBI, for help.⁶ Paying the ransom is not a good idea. It doesn't secure your data back. Plus, it could lead to more attacks.⁸ Instead, think about restoring your data from backups or ask for professional help.

The ransomware response checklist was updated in May 2023,⁶ and it suggests finding and isolating the infected systems right away.⁶ Make sure to protect important operations first,⁶ and consider saving snapshots of your cloud data for later checks.⁶ Always be careful, as cybercriminals might still watch what you're doing,⁶ so turning off your devices can help stop the ransomware from spreading more.⁶

It's important for companies to decide on which systems to fix first, based on their value.⁶ The list includes hunting down certain dangerous softwares beforehand, like Bumblebee or Dridex.⁶ Be on the lookout using threat-hunting tactics,⁶ and know the signs of a ransomware attack to catch it early.⁶

To contain the attack, start by making copies of your systems and saving memory data.⁶ It's also wise to check with the authorities for any help to break the ransomware.⁶ Stop the ransomware software from running to limit the damage it can do.⁶

Microsoft Defender XDR tracks the threat and keeps your systems safe during the response.⁷ Protect all your systems by disconnecting the backup until everything is secure.⁷ Look for the ransomware's signature through advanced scans on your devices.⁷

Recover critical files using OneDrive's File Restore within the last 30 days.⁷ Change the passwords of any user accounts that might have been caught,⁷ and run antivirus scans on all devices to clear them of ransomware.⁷ Don't forget to find and bring back any missing emails caused by the attack.⁷

Prevent further damage by halting Exchange ActiveSync and OneDrive sync.⁷ Confirm your offline backups are clean before using them.⁷ Secure your system by removing access points for attackers and cleaning cached data.⁷

Preventive Measures Against Ransomware Viruses

To stop ransomware, you should keep everything updated. This means the latest security patches for software must be installed. Also, have strong antivirus and anti-malware. Be careful online, especially with emails. Using a VPN on public Wi-Fi can keep you safe too.

Having a good security tool like McAfee Total Protection helps. It comes with Ransom Guard for extra protection against threats⁹. CISA offers free help to check for and decrease threats for organizations⁹. They give free tools like Malicious Domain Blocking and a Review for U.S. local, tribal, and territorial governments⁹.

Keep learning with training like "Don't Wake Up to a Ransomware Attack"⁹. It teaches essential skills against ransomware. Many resources are available that help everyone from home users to tech experts fight off ransomware⁹.

Research shows just 10% of organizations act fast enough when ransomware hits. But those with Albert Network Monitoring are alerted in just six minutes¹⁰. This daily-updated tool gives the latest protection. Backing up data is still the number one way to stop ransomware according to MS-ISAC¹⁰.

Training workers in security is key to avoid ransomware attacks. Using an Intrusion Detection System quickly spots trouble¹⁰. Cloud services can keep earlier file versions safe, letting you go back to before they were encrypted¹⁰. Advanced organizations aim to find threats within 10 minutes, data from Crowdstrike shows¹⁰.

In 2021, ransomware attacks were happening every 11 seconds and cost nearly $20 billion¹¹. In 2020, phishing caused over half of these hacks¹¹. Ransomware usually targets businesses, hospitals, and schools¹¹.

The WannaCry attack in 2017 hit over 230,000 computers due to old Windows versions¹¹. In 2020, phishing was the top cybercrime, costing billions¹¹. Phishing emails or links are the main ways hackers spread ransomware¹¹.

For companies, endpoint security is vital with more remote work¹¹. Network segmentation can stop ransomware from spreading¹¹. Following the 3-2-1 rule for backing up data is crucial. It advises having three copies, two on different devices, and one offline¹¹. Application whitelisting can also help by blocking unknown software from launching¹¹.

Conclusion

Ransomware viruses are a huge problem for people and groups. They can lead to big data loss, stop systems working, and cost a lot of money. Knowing how they get in, like through fake emails, weak points in the system, or getting into the physical space, helps to keep things safe.¹² This way, people and companies can protect their information and keep working no matter what.

Using strong methods to protect data is key against ransomware.¹³ Also, having a powerful security tool like McAfee+ helps a lot. It watches for viruses all the time, keeps passwords safe, and lets you browse the internet safely. These tools add extra protection against ransomware threats.¹³

To fight ransomware effectively, being active about cybersecurity is crucial.¹²¹³ This means always updating software, making a strong way to get into systems, and focusing on keeping data safe. With the right knowledge and tools, people and businesses can protect what's important to them. This helps them stay strong against harmful attacks.

FAQ

What is ransomware?

Ransomware is a malicious software that locks away important data. It demands money for its release. Its popularity has soared in recent years. The United States saw a 60% increase in such attacks from late 2019 to early 2020 according to McAfee Labs.

How does ransomware infect systems?

The main ways ransomware spreads are through phishing and exploiting system weaknesses. Phishing involves tricking users into downloading malware or giving up their logins through deceptive messages. Exploiting software vulnerabilities or visiting malicious websites are other common routes.

How can I protect my data from ransomware?

To safeguard against ransomware, a robust backup plan is key. Regularly save your important files to both cloud and external drives. Keep your software updated to close off security holes. Strong, unique passwords, and two-factor authentication are essential too.

What should I do if my system is infected with ransomware?

If you fall victim to ransomware, act fast. Disconnect your device from the internet to stop the infection from spreading. Change your passwords for all accounts. Report the crime to the authorities. Paying the ransom is not recommended. Instead, try restoring from backups or consult a professional data recovery service.

What preventive measures can I take against ransomware viruses?

Prevent ransomware by updating your software and using strong security solutions. Be vigilant when opening emails and surfing the web. A VPN can safeguard your online activities. McAfee Total Protection with Ransom Guard is a solid choice for added security.

Source Links

1. https://us.norton.com/blog/malware/ransomware-5-dos-and-donts
2. https://www.checkpoint.com/cyber-hub/threat-prevention/ransomware/the-difference-between-ransomware-and-malware/
3. https://www.kaspersky.com/resource-center/threats/ransomware
4. https://www.nakivo.com/blog/virus-ransomware-and-malware-the-differences-explained/
5. https://www.trendmicro.com/vinfo/us/security/definition/ransomware
6. https://www.cisa.gov/stopransomware/ive-been-hit-ransomware
7. https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/defender-xdr/playbook-responding-ransomware-m365-defender
8. https://www.ibm.com/blog/how-to-respond-to-ransomware-attack
9. https://www.cisa.gov/stopransomware/how-can-i-protect-against-ransomware
10. https://www.cisecurity.org/insights/blog/7-steps-to-help-prevent-limit-the-impact-of-ransomware
11. https://www.upguard.com/blog/best-practices-to-prevent-ransomware-attacks
12. https://www.msp360.com/resources/blog/ransomware-attack-scenarios-and-how-to-be-protected/
13. https://www.mcafee.com/learn/ransomware/