How to protect your system against WannaCry Ransomware?

You have probably heard of WannaCry ransomware attack by now and would be confused as to what is going on and whether your computer is safe or not.

So, what is a WannaCry Ransomware? Is it a Trojan or a virus? Do you need a patch to fix it? The below given information is everything you need to know about the WannaCry Ransomware and ways to protect your system from it.

WannaCry Ransomware

WannaCrypt or WannaCry is a type of ransomware [ a malicious software] that encrypts the device’s hard disk drive and then extends over between devices on the same local area network [ LAN]. WannaCry Ransomware spreads through malicious attachments from email as well.

WannaCry Ransomware encodes the files on infected windows computer and spreads by using vulnerability in applications of server message block [ SMB] in Windows OS. Approximately 100 countries, including India were attacked by this massive WannaCry Ransomware. While once hit, users are told to pay $300 in Bitcoins to re-claim their information.

How to protect your system against WannaCryRansomware?

CERT-In, i.e. Computer Emergency Response Team of India recently issued an utmost important alert [ red color]. They have advised Windows using organizations and individuals to apply patches to Windows OS. Technology experts opined that this WannaCry Ransomware was targeting common files such as Doc, PPT, TIFF and MP4 and MKV files.

Update your system

Update your Window OS and install all the new patches. Install the Microsoft fix MS17-010 immediately to protect your computer from WannaCry Ransomware. After the Microsoft fix is installed, reboot the system.

Do not open suspicious emails, apps or websites

WannaCry ransomware breaks out through phishing emails, dubious apps, malicious advertisements on websites and suspicious software programs. Therefore, the best thing you can do to defend your system is by avoid clicking on such dubious emails and adverts. You can install software and apps which can be directly downloaded from official online stores, website and service etc.

Don’t pay money

Paying money [ ransom] will not guarantee the malware’s removal from your system or even safe retrieval of your files. Furthermore, there is a probability that hackers will strike against you once more and demand more money.

Back up your system

Make sure that you create secure backups of the all the necessary info asap in a completely different system. Technology gurus point out that cloud storage is another choice you can consider; however, it makes your data vulnerable to other kinds of attacks. Therefore, make sure that you have a secure backup for all the important information you need all the time.

Install anti-virus software

Many good antivirus software offer tools to remove these types of ransomware. You can make use of such antivirus software tools, it assists you in removing malware and virus quickly and painlessly. Additionally, the antivirus software actively monitors your system and prevents all incoming threats, all the while quarantining and removing all suspicious software.