In today's sprawling internet landscape, not everyone has good intentions. Cybercriminals use the internet to hack into personal computers and steal identities, data, and other valuable personal information. An increasingly popular method used by these cyber-thieves is something called “ransomware." Below is a quick primer on the destructive tool and how you can avoid it before you have to turn to computer repair professionals. 

What Is Ransomware?

Malware

Malicious software, or malware for short, are programs that are designed to take control of part or all of a person's computer, often mining it for personal information like credit card and social security numbers. Ransomware is a specific type of malware in which the cybercriminals effectively hijack part or all of the data on a person's computer, then demand a ransom payment in exchange for restoring access to the data (often in the form of what’s called a decryption key). 

Phishing Spam

One of the most popular ways these criminals get malware and ransomware onto people's computers is through a method called "phishing": emails that include links or attachments that, once clicked, download the pernicious software onto the victim's computer. These emails can be disguised as messages from friends, exclusive offers, or other benign information. 

Avoiding Ransomware

One of the best ways to dramatically decrease the chances that your computer becomes infected with malware or ransomware is by never opening emails, links, or attachments that appear even the slightest bit suspicious. Further, if your computer abruptly starts downloading a file or program you don't know or didn't click to be downloaded, cancel the download immediately. 

Malware and ransomware are increasingly serious and ever-present threats in today's internet, and there's no team in Fairbanks more experienced at fighting them off than the pros at ComputerWerks. The computer repair shop specializes in not just repairing infected computers, but also offers high-level computer IT support and software installation, and sells laptops and accessories. Visit the store's website to learn more about its computer repair services, or call directly at (907) 451-4888.