How to Protect Against Ransomware and Prevent Attacks

Stop Ransomware

Safeguarding your devices from ransomware requires a combination of smart online habits and strong cybersecurity measures.  Follow these best practices to reduce your risk of infection:

🔹 Avoid Clicking on Unsafe Links – Refrain from clicking on links in spam emails or untrusted websites.  Malicious links can trigger automatic downloads, leading to an infection.

🔹 Be Cautious with Personal Information – Cybercriminals may try to gather personal details through phishing scams before launching an attack.   If you receive unexpected requests for sensitive information via call, text, or email, do not respond.  Instead, verify the legitimacy of the sender directly.

🔹 Do Not Open Suspicious Email Attachments – Malware often spreads through email attachments.  Always verify the sender’s email address before opening any attachment, and avoid files that prompt you to enable macros, as they can execute malicious code.

🔹 Never Use Unknown USB Drives – Avoid plugging in unfamiliar USB sticks or storage devices.  Cybercriminals sometimes leave infected drives in public places, hoping someone will unknowingly connect them to their system.

🔹 Keep Software and Operating Systems Updated – Regular updates ensure you have the latest security patches, reducing vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit.

🔹 Download from Trusted Sources – Only install software and media from reputable sources.  Look for trust seals and ensure the website URL begins with “https” rather than “http.”  Mobile users should stick to official app stores like Google Play or the Apple App Store.

🔹 Use a VPN on Public Wi-Fi – Public Wi-Fi networks are hotspots for cyber threats.  Protect your data by avoiding sensitive transactions on public networks or using a secure VPN service.

By following these precautions, you can significantly reduce your chances of falling victim to ransomware attacks.