In light of the major ransomware attacks
on a meat producer and oil pipeline, the FBI offers tips for avoiding the destructive
cyber-attacks.
Ransomware is a type of
malicious software, or malware, that prevents you from accessing your computer
files, systems, or networks and demands you pay a ransom for their
return. Ransomware attacks can cause costly disruptions to operations and
the loss of critical information and data.
You can unknowingly
download ransomware onto a computer by opening an email attachment, clicking an
ad, following a link, or even visiting a website that's embedded with malware.
Once the code is
loaded on a computer, it will lock access to the computer itself or data and
files stored there. More menacing versions can encrypt files and folders on
local drives, attached drives, and even networked computers.
Most of the time,
you don’t know your computer has been infected. You usually discover it when
you can no longer access your data or you see computer messages letting you
know about the attack and demanding ransom payments.
Tips
for Avoiding Ransomware
The best way to
avoid being exposed to ransomware—or any type of malware—is to be a cautious
and conscientious computer user. Malware distributors have gotten increasingly
savvy, and you need to be careful about what you download and click on.
Other tips:
- Keep
operating systems, software, and applications current and up to date.
- Make sure
anti-virus and anti-malware solutions are set to automatically update and
run regular scans.
- Back up data
regularly and double-check that those backups were completed.
- Secure your
backups. Make sure they are not connected to the computers and networks
they are backing up.
- Create a
continuity plan in case your business or organization is the victim of a
ransomware attack.
The FBI does not support
paying a ransom in response to a ransomware attack. Paying a
ransom doesn’t guarantee you or your organization will get any data back. It
also encourages perpetrators to target more victims and offers an incentive for
others to get involved in this type of illegal activity.
If you are a victim of ransomware contact your local FBI field office.
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