When browsing the Internet we can suffer a wide variety of computer attacks. We can have problems that affect passwords, personal data, the good general functioning of the system… However, there is a type of malware that is really dangerous and that we can qualify as the worst that a home user can suffer from: ransomware. We are going to explain why it is so dangerous, how it affects you and, of course, what to do to be protected.
Ransomware, the worst threat
What does ransomware do? This is malicious software that aims to encrypt files that is on the computer. Basically it makes it impossible to open a Word document, images, PDF files, videos… It can even encrypt the entire system and prevent you from entering the PC.
If we compare it with other security threats, we can definitely rate it as one of the worst. We are talking about the fact that a hacker could prevent us from entering the system normally and lose everything that is stored on the hard drive. This includes any important documents, photographs, videos…
Also, when we are victims of ransomware, it is normal that there is no way to solve it. At least not quickly. It is not a matter of running an antivirus and removing malware, as is the case with other threats that can cause browser crashes, slow down the system, etc. In this case the attackers will ask for a ransom in return. They are going to ask us to pay to regain control over the system.
This affects home users, but also companies and organizations. It can put many customers out of service. Think, for example, of a store that needs a computer to be able to manage orders. If you suffer a ransomware attackit may take a long time without being able to regain control and that will mean economic losses.
What to do to avoid attacks
So how can we be prepared against ransomware? It is very important to take into account certain tips that we are going to give. In this way you can protect yourself and avoid attacks that affect the operation of your systems. You will be able to prevent your files from being encrypted and having to pay to recover them.
Something fundamental is to always have All updated. Many computer attacks, as is the case with ransomware, will take advantage of some vulnerability. That uncorrected security flaw is what is going to allow a cybercriminal to enter your computer or sneak in some security threat of this type. Therefore, you must update the operating system and also any programs that you use.
It is also important that you have a good antivirus to protect security. For example, Microsoft Defender, the one that comes with Windows systems, has an anti-ransomware function that is very useful to be protected. You should always use a collateral option that works properly.
But if there is something essential to be protected against ransomware, it is the common sense. You must not make mistakes that could expose your teams. For example, you should always download from official and safe sources, check the Wi-Fi networks to which you connect very well or be careful with the emails you receive and that can be a risk. It is important to avoid email ransomware.
In short, we can say that ransomware is the worst attack that we can suffer at the level of domestic users. It is essential to be protected and not make any mistakes that could make it easier for hackers to encrypt your files and demand a ransom in return.
