Learn how iCompuCARE can protect you from ranswomware
Ransomware is malware that locks your keyboard or computer to prevent you from accessing your data until you pay a ransom, usually demanded in Bitcoin. The digital extortion racket is not new—it’s been around since about 2005, but attackers have greatly improved on the scheme with the development of ransom cryptware, which encrypts your files using a private key that only the attacker possesses, instead of simply locking your keyboard or computer. Most recently, a global cyberattack spread ransomware to countless computers over 150 countries.
What is Ransomware?
Ransomware, also known as scareware, is malicious software that restricts access to an infected computer while displaying a notification making demands for the computer user to pay a fee to restore access to the infected system. Recent ransomware, such as CryptoLocker and CryptoWall, are known to encrypt files, which locks up an infected computer making it virtually useless for performing basic functions or surfing the Internet.
Ransomware will ask that a substantial fee is paid for the decryption of the files to restore them back to their original state. However, paying for the ransom does not guarantee that the computer user will regain access to the infected computer.
Most ransomware will make a false claim of online criminal activity or immoral acts detected by authorities. While the claims proved to be false, the threat is very real and could end up costing you a lot in the long run. The extortion price varies, ranging from USD$20 to more than USD$600, but may be much higher.
The technical challenges presented with ransomware are vast. Such malware infections put your system’s resources at risk and could result in a total loss of your data if the threat is not addressed or removed.