What is ransomware?
Ransomware is a type of malicious software that encrypts data on a computer, then demands payment from the user in order to release the data. The Encryption ransomware family is one of the most common types of ransomware. Avast detects and blocks many variants of ransomware, including the Encryption ransomware family. If you’re infected with ransomware, we recommend following our removal guide to remove it.
How does ransomware work?
Ransomware is a type of malware that hijacks computer systems, encrypting data and demanding a ransom in exchange for the release of the data. Once infected, the user will typically see a notification on their screen stating that their data has been encrypted, and provide instructions to pay the ransom to receive decryption keys. While ransomware can be easily removed by following the provided instructions, paying the ransom often results in criminals getting a significant amount of money. Avast! Antivirus utilizes our patented Anti-Ransomware technology to protect users from ransomware infections. Our software blocks infection attempts before they happen and notifies users if their files are encrypted by ransomware.
What are the symptoms of ransomware infection?
The symptoms of ransomware infection can vary, but typically include:
A message on your computer screen that says your computer has been encrypted and you need to pay a ransom to get it back Random pop-ups asking you to pay a ransom in order to regain access to your computer Loss of data or files that were on your computer when the ransomware infection occurred
What can I do to protect myself from ransomware?
There are a few things you can do to help protect yourself from ransomware. First, be sure to keep up-to-date with security patches and software updates. This will help protect your computer against new threats. Second, make sure that you have up-to-date antivirus software installed and activated. Third, don’t open unsolicited emails or attachments from unknown sources. Fourth, if you find that your computer has been infected with ransomware, do not pay the ransom! While it is possible to remove the virus without paying the ransom, it is much more difficult and may require professional help. Finally, always exercise caution when sharing personal information online – such as your login credentials – especially if you are not familiar with the source.
Conclusion
As a business owner, you must be constantly vigilant of the latest ransomware threats. Fortunately, avast offers comprehensive protection against these types of attacks. In this article, we will explore how avast works to keep your data safe from ransomware, and whether or not it is effective in doing so.
