What Is Ransomware?

How Does Ransomware Work?

Ransomware works by infecting a device or network and encrypting the victim's files so they can no longer access their data. Once the malware has locked the system, the attacker demands a ransom payment—usually in cryptocurrency—in exchange for the decryption key.

In some cases, attackers also threaten to leak sensitive information if the ransom isn't paid, adding pressure through the threat of a data breach.

The infection typically begins when a user clicks a malicious link or downloads an infected attachment—often delivered through phishing emails, fake software updates or compromised websites. Once inside the system, ransomware can spread quickly across a network, locking up files and even disabling backups or security tools.

Many modern ransomware attacks use sophisticated techniques to evade detection, such as exploiting system vulnerabilities, using legitimate tools or operating in stealth mode before launching the attack.

Types of Ransomware

Cybercriminals use several types of ransomware, each with its own tactics for extorting money and disrupting systems. These tactics vary in sophistication, but they all aim to manipulate victims into paying up, often with devastating consequences.

Here are the most common forms you might encounter.

Encryptors

This is the most widespread and damaging form of ransomware. It encrypts your files, making them completely inaccessible unless you pay for the decryption key. High-profile attacks often use this type, and it often spreads across networks, locking up systems and destroying backups.

Lockers

Instead of encrypting your files, this type of ransomware locks your entire device. A full-screen message appears demanding payment, and it may reappear even after restarting the device, effectively making the system unusable.

Leakware

This ransomware goes a step further by stealing sensitive information. The attacker threatens to publish or sell the data unless a ransom is paid. As such, it's also sometimes referred to as doxware. It's particularly dangerous for businesses holding confidential customer or financial data.

Scareware

Scareware is a type of ransomware that uses fake warnings, such as a claim that your computer is infected or that you've been caught doing something illegal online, to pressure you into paying a fee. In reality, the threat may be empty, but the scare tactic is meant to exploit fear and urgency.

In extreme cases, the scammer may charge you for software they say fixes the problem. But instead, it's malware, which infects your device and steals your data.

Double-Extortion Attacks

Ransomware attacks have also evolved over the years, and double-extortion encryption attacks are now common. Ransomware victims might not want to pay if they can restore their files or systems from a backup. But in a double-extortion attack, the criminals encrypt the victim's files and also threaten to release sensitive files unless the ransom is paid.

How to Avoid Ransomware Attacks

Most individuals aren't the primary targets of ransomware because cybercriminals tend to go after corporations, government agencies and other organizations where the payout is much higher.

But many attacks are spread widely and indiscriminately, hoping to catch unsuspecting victims, so it's still important to take precautions. Here are several steps you can take to protect yourself from ransomware:

• Don't open attachments from unknown senders. Malicious files can disguise themselves as invoices, resumes or other common documents.
• Avoid clicking suspicious links in emails. They may redirect you to fake websites designed to download ransomware onto your device.
• Manually type in URLs when visiting important sites. This ensures you land on the legitimate page rather than a spoofed version.
• Install updates and security patches promptly. Many attacks exploit known software vulnerabilities that patches are designed to fix.
• Use reliable antivirus software and keep it up to date. Antivirus software can help detect and block ransomware before it activates.
• Back up your files regularly. Cloud backups or external drives can help you recover your data without paying a ransom.
• Keep backups disconnected when not in use. If a drive is plugged in during an attack, ransomware can encrypt your backups too.
• Be cautious on public Wi-Fi networks. Unsecured networks are more vulnerable to cyberattacks, including malware distribution.
• Limit administrative access on your computer. Using a non-admin account for daily tasks can reduce the damage ransomware can do.

Taking these steps won't make you immune, but it can greatly reduce your risk and make recovery far easier if you're ever targeted.

What to Do if You're Targeted by Ransomware

If you're hit by ransomware, you may be tempted to pay, especially if the attackers are asking for a relatively small amount.

However, No More Ransom, a site and service supported by law enforcement agencies around the world, advises victims not to pay a ransom, in part because it may encourage criminals to continue ransomware attacks. Also, there's no guarantee that paying the ransom will actually result in you getting access to your files.

Consider some of the alternative steps you could take:

1. Isolate the device. You may want to quickly disconnect your computer from your home network to keep the infection from spreading. You could unplug an Ethernet cable, put the device into airplane mode or turn off the Wi-Fi. You can also power down the device if you're not able to disconnect it.
2. Report the attack. Report the attack to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), which may be able to offer some assistance.
3. Try the Crypto Sheriff. The No More Ransom site also has a free Crypto Sheriff tool, which may be able to identify and decrypt your files for free.
4. Revert to a backup. If you have backups and are comfortable with the process, you may want to wipe your computer's hard drive, reinstall the operating system and use the backup to restore your machine.
5. Hire professional help. You could also try reaching out to a tech support service provider to ask for advice and help. They may be able to assess your device to tell you if it's actually encrypted or locked (or if it was just scareware), and to help you through the recovery process.

Fortunately, it may be easier for individuals to recover from a ransomware attack than organizations that have a large network of computers with troves of confidential data. But it can still be a scary, time-consuming and potentially expensive process. As is often the case, prevention is the best approach.

Keep Your Information Safe

Basic cybersecurity hygiene can help protect you from ransomware and other types of cyberattacks. But your personal information could also be leaked through a data breach or other type of attack.

Look into services that offer dark web monitoring and credit monitoring, which can warn you if your personal information is found online and if someone is trying to fraudulently open new credit accounts. Some services, such as an Experian premium membership, also come with identity theft insurance and dedicated fraud resolution support.