So what is ransomware? Ransomware is malware that blocks a computer or computer system. The malware will lock the computer until the victim pays a ransom of money. Here at Computer Geeks, we fixed an alarming number of ransomware cases in the last several weeks. And we don’t pay these hackers a dime! The rise of ransomware: it’s bad, people.
I saw an interesting chart about Windows and ransomware attacks. This chart compared Windows 7 and Windows 10 devices. Also, it shows both systems facing more malware attacks. In fact, by Microsoft’s own admission, attacks increased four times over in one year.? We’re talking more attacks since January 2016. Both systems’ numbers went up. But according to this chart, Windows 7 devices are more accessible to ransomware.
Windows 10 devices are 58% less likely to attack. Many credit Smart Screen Filter blocks. Windows 10 devices was the main selling point in converting from Windows 7. It was a free upgrade until August 2016. Now, the upgrade will cost $120. It’s good at preventing exploits before they even make it to the device. And then there’s Windows Defender. It says what it means. It means what it says. Windows Defender was upgraded six months ago. And it’s allegedly stronger and bigger than ever. Windows Defender blocks a good percentage of these attacks.
Other than going to Windows 10, what else can we do to prevent ransomware? The most important thing: Don’t give in to the hackers! Turn your computer off, wait a while, then turn it back on. Often times this works. If not, then call someone to get the ransomware off. We at Computer Geeks specialize in fighting such malware. If you give into these cyber criminals, they’ll have your debit/credit card number and everything else. Whose to say they won’t exploit that as well? Here are some other tips to prevent ransomware before it gets started. What else can you do to prevent ransomware?