ransomware

How does ransomware work?

Ransomware is a malicious software that encrypts a victim’s files and demands a ransom in order to decrypt them. It is typically spread through phishing emails or by exploit kits that take advantage of vulnerabilities on websites. Once a victim’s computer is infected, the ransomware will scan it for files to encrypt and then display a ransom note informing the victim of the encryption and how to pay the ransom. The amount of the ransom varies, but it is typically in the range of $200-$500 in bitcoins.

There are two main types of ransomware: locker and crypto. Locker ransomware will lock the victim’s computer and prevent them from accessing it until the ransom is paid. Crypto ransomware will encrypt the victim’s files and make them inaccessible until the ransom is paid. Some ransomware will also threaten to delete the victim’s files or publish them online if the ransom is not paid.

Payment of the ransom does not guarantee that the victim will regain access to their files. In some cases, the files may be successfully decrypted but in other cases, they may not be. There have also been cases where victims have paid the ransom but then been targeted again with the same or a similar ransomware. For these reasons, it is generally not recommended to pay the ransom.

There are a few things that you can do to protect yourself from ransomware. First, make sure that you have a good anti-virus program installed and that it is up-to-date. Second, be careful about opening email attachments, even if they appear to be from a trusted sender. And third, back up your files regularly so that you have a copy that you can restore if your computer is infected.

What are some common methods used to deliver ransomware?

There are a few different methods that are commonly used to deliver ransomware. One popular method is known as phishing. Phishing involves sending out fake emails or other online communication that looks legitimate in an attempt to get the victim to click on a malicious link. Once the victim clicks on the link, they will be taken to a website that looks legitimate but is actually a fake. This fake website will then prompt the victim to enter their personal information or download a file. If the victim enters their personal information, the ransomware will be able to encrypt it and demand a ransom for the decryption key. If the victim downloads the file, the ransomware will be installed on their computer and will encrypt their files. Another common method for delivering ransomware is through drive-by downloads. Drive-by downloads occur when the victim visits a malicious website or clicks on a malicious advertisement. The website or advertisement will then download the ransomware onto the victim’s computer without their knowledge. Once the ransomware is on the victim’s computer, it will encrypt their files and demand a ransom for the decryption key.

Visit malwarezero.org to learn more about ransomware. Disclaimer: We used this website as a reference for this blog post.

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