What is ransomware? How can I deal with it?

Ransomware is a type of malicious software designed to block access to a computer system or data until a sum of money, or ransom, is paid. To address a ransomware infection, follow these steps:

1. Isolate Infected System: Disconnect the infected device from the network to prevent the ransomware from spreading.

2. Do Not Pay Ransom: It is not recommended to pay the ransom as it does not guarantee that you will regain access to your data, and it can fund criminal activities.

3. Remove Ransomware: Use reputable antivirus or anti-malware software to scan and remove the ransomware from the infected system.

4. Restore from Backup: If possible, restore your files from a backup that was created before the ransomware infection occurred.

5. Update Security Software: Ensure that your security software and operating system are up to date to protect against future infections.

6. Educate Users: Educate yourself and others about how ransomware spreads and how to prevent infections through phishing emails, malicious links, and compromised websites.

7. Report the Incident: Report the ransomware attack to law enforcement authorities, especially if sensitive data has been compromised.

8. Consider Professional Help: If the infection is severe or if you are unsure how to handle it, consider seeking help from a cybersecurity professional.

Remember to regularly backup your data to minimize the impact of a ransomware attack and implement strong cybersecurity measures to prevent future incidents.