Next W10 update to boost ransomware protection
Microsoft
has said that the next major update to Windows 10 will contain new tools to protect computers from ransomware attacks.
It plans to add to Windows Defender a tool called ‘Controlled folder access’, which will keep track of changes programs make to “certain protected folders”.
With this setting switched on, you’ll receive a notification if a program “blacklisted” by Microsoft attempts to change files within these folders.
It’s expected to arrive in the Fall Creators Update of Windows 10, scheduled for September.
Writing on Microsoft’s blog ( www.snipca.com/24912), software engineer Dona Sarkar said that you won’t be able to change the default list of protected folders, which includes Documents, Pictures, Movies and Desktop. However, you will be able to add other folders. Sarkar said this would be useful “if you don’t store files in the default Windows libraries or you’ve changed the location of the libraries away from the defaults”.
Sarkar added that you’ll also be able to allow programs access to folders if Microsoft is blocking those you “know and trust” to be safe.
‘Controlled folder access’ is already in Preview versions of Windows 10, available to users of the Insider Program ( https://insider.windows.com).
To turn it on, type and open Windows Defender Security Centre in the Start menu, then click ‘Virus & threat protection’. On the page that opens, click ‘Virus & threat protection settings’, then move the ‘Controlled folder access’ slider to on (see screenshot).
To add a folder, click ‘Protected folders’ in the ‘Controlled folder access’ section and type its full path. To allow safe programs, click ‘Add an allowed app’.
Microsoft announced the tool a week after the Petya ransomware attacked millions of computers run by
companies and organisations worldwide, although most affected PCS were in Ukraine.
Casualties included the British advertising agency WPP, US Oreo cookie manufacturer Mondelez International, and Danish shipping group Maersk.