Infections Never Rest
Now that the holidays are over, it’s time to take a look at the upcoming year in computers and technology. This year we are starting off by shining the light on a form of infection that has recently crept back into systems. Ransomware.
Locks Your Files
A ransomware infection is your typical malware with one very significant difference. Sure, the malware still pops up notifications endlessly, slows down the infected computer system, causes system wide problems and attempts to influence the user to pay for a ‘magic bullet’ type solution but this malware has an additional advantage. The malware will actually encrypt your files. What that means is that if a user becomes infected, recovery of those files will be virtually impossible.. for now.
Never Pay Criminals
The ransomware, like typical malware, offers users an option to pay to have the files unencrypted and released from the infection’s hold, but ultimately no matter how much money you pay out, the files are never decrypted nor is the infection removed from your system. Of course it goes without saying that you should never send those criminals any money.
Get Help
Our advice, should you get infected with ransomware, is to immediately shut down your computer system and contact GeekITDown technicians or your own computer repair technician. By doing so, you limit the amount of files which may be encrypted and thus lost forever while allowing for the technician to potentially save any remaining files.
Backup Your Files
One additional thing worth noting. In order to limit the damage done by this or any other infection, it’s always best to have a backup of your data. Having a safe and secure backup of all your personal documents, pictures, music, etc. is priceless should something catastrophic happen. If you need help deciding which type of backup solution works best for you, contact us and one of our technicians can sort out the information with you.
Been bitten by this type of infection? Have a story to share? Share your thoughts with other users in the comments section.