Backing up your photos, working files, media, and personal documents ensures you can recover information if a computer fails. Users often don’t think that hackers will target their backup files. However, a ransomware hijack could lead to financial losses, as customers and employees can lose sensitive data. The following guide highlights why you should protect content on hard drives, flash drives, and other computer accessories.

What Is Ransomware?

Ransomware is a type of malware that allows hackers to seize data on your computer. This harmful software can also affect computer accessories and drives where users store their backups. Criminals can lock you out of the computer and demand a ransom in exchange for stolen data. They'll return the content or delete it after receiving the ransom.

Ransomware is often downloaded accidentally through phishing emails. Hackers disguise them as messages from employers, friends, and reputable institutions. Once the recipient clicks on a link or attachment, the ransomware file gives the hacker access to your device and computer accessories.

How Can You Protect Your Backups?

Computer IT support professionals may recommend backing up all your data in three locations. Use two different hard drives and one cloud-based storage option so that there’s always a way to recover your content. Keep your hard drive offline between scheduled uploads as well. If it’s physically disconnected, a hacker can't access it. 

As a second defense, version your data. Sometimes, your backups may accidentally save an untouched ransomware file onto the hard drive during a computer backup. When you restore your device, you reintroduce the ransomware. Save time-stamped copies of your backups to access content that ransomware didn't infect. 

Finally, never open emails from unknown recipients, click suspicious links, or download attachments from someone you don’t know. If you accidentally open a questionable message, you may need to turn to IT professionals for guidance.

If you need more computer accessories for your backup, contact ComputerWerks in Fairbanks, AK. Since 1999, these professionals have provided comprehensive computer repair services, and they've also helped businesses with computer network installations. Their team will also help you recover from ransomware and other cyberattacks. Call (907) 451-4888 to ask about their discounts for veterans and senior citizens, or visit them online to learn more about their computer warranties.