How Do Different Types of Ransomware Work?

How does ransomware work? These viruses lock your computer and demand an electronic fine for accessing it. Sometimes, they even look like official government seals. They try to trick you into thinking they are legitimate, but they’re not. Instead, they’re a scam designed to extort money from the unsuspecting. It would help if you didn’t trust them. The best way to avoid them is to be cautious and protect your computer from these attacks.

WannaCry Ransomware

If you’re wondering how WannaCry works, you’ve come to the right place. This ransomware infection was spread by an email attachment disguised as a document. WannaCry exploits a security flaw in the file-sharing system to encrypt files and data on infected systems. After the files are encrypted, the WannaCry ransomware demands payment in BitCoins within three days. The ransom amount will then double to US$600.

Locker Ransomware

CryptoLocker ransomware is a computer infection that targets computers running Microsoft Windows. Ransomware is a variant of a virus known as “cryptolocker.” The malware was first discovered on the internet in early September 2013. The CryptoLocker trojan is a variant of this virus. This type of ransomware is distributed via email. This ransomware works by encrypting files and preventing them from being used again.

Malvertising

Understanding how ransomware works are essential before you install it on your computer. Attackers use social engineering to entice victims to divulge personal information, open a malicious file, or click on a malicious link. This tactic is also called “malspam.” You might have received one of these messages in the past, but you may have never suspected it was malicious. Malvertising is the distribution of text and graphic ads that contain malicious code. These ads may appear alongside regular advertisements.

Malicious Attachments

The latest threat vector in ransomware is malicious attachments disguised as legitimate information. These malicious files have embedded macros that steal personal information and install Trojans on the victim’s computer. For example, a recent attack on a cryptocurrency firm targeted its administrators with malicious documents disguised as invoices. In this way, employees may panic and open the malicious file without realizing it is negative. Fortunately, there are some simple ways to protect yourself from this new threat vector.

Exfiltration of Data

Ransomware is a scourge on computer networks. The primary purpose of the attack is to extort money and gain access to files. The ransomware attacks are aimed at top-secret and proprietary data, including confidential HR files. By encrypting these files, attackers deny victims any additional leverage. In addition, exposing these encrypted files only shows that the files are protected.

Demand for Ransom

The costs of paying a ransom for a stolen file can be staggering. These costs may include business interruption costs, replacing hardware and software, reputational damage, data restoration, and resilience building. For many companies, the primary motivation is to get back up and running as soon as possible. Organizations with critical services or little or no backups may pay a ransom to minimize the impact and avoid downtime. In the long run, paying a ransom may prove cheaper than rebuilding their systems.

Prevention

In addition to encrypting data, ransomware can lock down your computer’s operating system and prevent legitimate access. Ransomware requires a ransom to decrypt data, but paying the ransom does not guarantee that you will get your data back. In addition, ransomware can damage your reputation and brand. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent ransomware attacks. 

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