Ransomware attacks explained: What is it and how to prevent it (2023)

Malware. What was once annoying malicious software that would wreak havoc on your device until it was removed has now become a more mischievous, harmful beast – and it’s no small thanks to the rise in ransomware attacks.

Ransomware is one of the most dangerous types of malware a user can get. It’s software that burrows deep into a system and sneakily takes a victim’s private data hostage by permanently blocking access to it – unless the victim gives into the hacker’s demands. What’s worse, it doesn’t take much for it to infect your smartphone or PC.

As Bitdefender’s Director of Threat Research and Reporting Bogdan Botezatu puts it, “ransomware has changed the paradigm.” It’s a cyber threat that preys on people’s fear of losing their privacy, and has gone on to cause mayhem around the globe. The Royal Mail continues to suffer from hacker group LockBit’s ransomware attack, 2021’s Colonial Pipeline attack saw fuel prices surge and more companies and individuals are still being affected to this day.

For a better understanding of what ransomware is and how to prevent it, we’ve got you covered below.

• Exclusive: Norton 360 warns ‘data is where the real currency is’
• Phishing explained: What is it and how to stop it

What is ransomware?

Ransomware is a type of malware that cybercriminals use to restrict access to files on a victim’s device, encrypting user data and demanding a ransom payment in order to gain access to them. If users don’t comply, these hackers will threaten them by leaking personal data they’ve locked down. It’s like someone changing the lock on your door, making new copies of a key, and asking for an outrageous sum of money to gain access to your property again – or they’ll sell off everything you own.

If a ransom is paid off, hackers will release the decryption key for users to gain access to their files again – or so they say. Furthermore, threat actors will make large claims that they haven’t just locked your files but have also obtained sensitive information on your device (a.k.a data theft), convincing users they can easily leak your data online. However, they may not have this data at all; cybercriminals are just bluffing their way to stealing your hard-earned cash.

These fear tactics convince victims that they must fork over a specific ransom, but these hackers may not give you access to your files once you’ve made the transaction, and they may not even have your data at all. This is why it’s important to never comply and to make sure you have the right ransomware protection so you’re never in this position in the first place.

How to stop ransomware

The problem with ransomware is that it’s tricky to get rid of. Even Bitdefender’s Director of Threat Research states that “ransomware is irreversible.” However, this doesn’t mean you can’t be prepared, as there are ways to block and prevent your data being taken.

The most important step in keeping your data safe is to have a backup of your files. This can be through Apple iCloud, Google Cloud Storage, Microsoft OneDrive or any app that lets you keep your important data safe. In the case of a ransomware attack, your files will be easily recoverable since they’ve been backed up. They may not be as up to date, but at least you’ll have access to them.

Use ransomware protection

Windows 10 and Windows 11 come with ransomware protection as part of Microsoft’s Windows Security suite. It’s a handy security tool that restricts applications from accessing, changing or encrypting the files in specific folders. This is key in defending against malware such as ransomware, as it prevents hackers from sneaking their way into folders to steal and lock down your private data.

You just need to turn on Controlled Access. You can find out how to turn on your PC’s hidden ransomware protection, and you can find a brief guide below:

• On your device, type in “Virus & threat protection” in the search field located on the taskbar.
• Select Virus & threat protection.

• A window will pop up. Under Virus & threat protection settings, select Manage settings.
• On the next page, make sure to turn on Real-time protection.

• Scroll down and select Manage Controlled folder access.
• Switch in Controlled folder access.

With this turned on, key folders such as Windows system folders, your default documents and pictures folders with be protected by default. You can add more trusted folders to protect by selecting Protected folders > Add a protected folder.

Looking to stop ransomware on your smartphone? Check out our guide on how to remove malware on iPhone and how to remove malware on Android.

Use an antivirus to block ransomware

Your device’s ransomware protection offers a reliable way to keep your personal information and files safe from threat actors, but the best antivirus software can do a lot more to fend off malware.

Services such as Bitdefender, Norton 360 and Malwarebytes have excellent detection and protection rates that defend against all forms of malware, meaning they can block and get rid of ransomware before it gets its hands on your personal files. They also analyse and scan through malicious websites and emails to make sure you don’t mistakenly download ransomware in the first place. Furthermore, some subscription packages come with 100GB of cloud storage, which is perfect for stopping hackers keeping your private data hostage.

For a better look at different antivirus software and which is the best for you, check out our reviews:

• Bitdefender review
• Norton 360 review
• Malwarebytes review

Best antivirus to stop ransomware