Ransomware is what it sounds like, but what exactly is it?

Intruders can steal our money by employing more sophisticated methods as technology improves. We receive messages in our mobile phones and in our mailboxes that contain links to pictures or other programs which "interest us" however, in actual they are malware that can take control of your mobile device or laptop.

For instance, you could put up your advertisement on an online platform that promotes selling a product. Then, you will receive an SMS within a couple of hours that includes an offer to swap your product with another. The message also contains a link to the images of the product. You can actually download the software that is specially designed by clicking on this link on your Android device. It will then transfer your entire amount to the account of the criminal.

Another technique used to attack is to mail out messages with link text and linkthat encourages users to click on the link. You may be offered a job by an intruder , and you'll need to complete the application by clicking on this link. Your device, or computer will then be infected by a trojan, or a "keylogger" that reads data from your hard drive and records keystrokes. The attacker can then make use of these files to hack into your computer. Because of the analysis of the data obtained, the attacker will be able determine your personal passwords and use them to steal money , or your personal details.

What is ransomware?

Ransomware, which is based upon human psychology, is a completely new way to make money for hackers. When you click on the link, your device becomes locked and you receive the message: "You must transfer 100dollars to restore access to your device, and to prevent data loss." "

The most common scenario is that the program code changes the autorun file or registry whenever you open such links. The user will then see this message. In other words, even if transfer money to intruder, no changes will be made, and you will not be granted access to your device.

But, there are also more serious variants of ransomware which can wipe all your data from your device. Be aware, that this type of malware doesn't create backups. Your data will be lost for all time and nobody will be able to retrieve it remotely.

It is therefore necessary to install antivirus or other scripts to fix your system. Never transfer money to intruders!

How to Protect

First, it is necessary to keep the antivirus database up-to-date. Most of the time antivirus programs are able to prevent infection of the operating system.

Second, back up your files regularly. Utilize a removable hard drive or cloud services to do this. If you lose data from your device, you are able to easily restore it without problems.

The most important thing is to be alert. Research shows that malware could be a threat to a mobile or computer device in the majority cases when it opens an attachment to the letter, for example, an attached image, in your mailbox. Unknown recipients might deliver attachments you shouldn't open. The best method to guard against such threats is to utilize temporary mailboxes to conceal your identity in web and filter out the most dangerous messages. According to statistics, temporary mailboxes are least susceptible to attacks of this sort, since their life span is restricted.

Summary

Never open email from unknown people and never open attachments.

Do not send money to an intruder if your device is locked. Your device won't be unlocked. To solve the problem try using antivirus or special scripts.

Make use of disposable mail as it allows you to protect yourself from mails with attached malware.