Avoid or remove ransomware
DOWNLOAD SAFELY
Malicious programs, such as ransomware, can be attached to files and programs downloaded online, so always be careful. When you’re downloading a new app, make sure you get it from the developer’s own site, not a third-party source, and make sure the URL begins ‘https’, indicating that it’s certified secure. If you use torrent sites, only download from legal, legitimate sources.
TAKE CARE WITH EMAILS
When you receive an email with an attachment — even if it’s from someone you know — think carefully before opening it. Criminals often try to trick you by sending emails about parcels you aren’t expecting or invoices that need paying, and sometimes your friends’ email accounts can be hijacked to send messages. If you see an email that looks dodgy, delete it without opening it.
3 BACK UP YOUR FILES
Prevention is better than cure. If you back up files regularly, you can simply restore them in the event of a ransomware attack — while also protecting them against physical damage or theft, if you keep the backup in a different physical location. Try AOMEI Backupper ( bit.ly/2tbK5VO). It’s a great free tool that makes backing up and restoring files as easy as can be.
4 UPDATE YOUR SOFTWARE
Criminals often exploit security problems in Windows and other software. To avoid falling victim, make sure you install all Windows security updates when prompted. Many other programs update themselves automatically, but for those that don’t, try the free Secunia Personal Software Inspector ( bit.ly/2sKEQwD). It scans your PC for older software and downloads any updates.
5 STRONG SECURITY SOFTWARE
No PC should ever be without an antivirus program, but some cover a broader range of malware than others. Windows 10 comes with Windows Defender, but it doesn’t have the best detection rates. If you’re looking for an alternative, try Avira Free Security Suite ( www.avira.com/en/get-antivirus). It’s easy to use, and particularly good at detecting and blocking ransomware.
7 DECRYPT FILES FOR FREE
If you don’t have a backup, there are still ways to solve the problem without paying. Not all ransomware works the same way, so Avast has created a set of free decryption tools that you can use to unlock your files at bit.ly/2tbCiay. Clicking on the name of a program on the website will reveal the symptoms it causes, and download the tool you need to remove it.
6 RESTORE AND RECOVER
All of these steps will help you avoid ransomware infection, but if something nasty slips through the net, don’t panic. If you’ve backed up your system with AOMEI Backupper, you can restore it using the guide at bit.ly/2rSOLMA. Alternatively, insert your original Windows disc and select the option to repair or reinstall the OS. Microsoft has a guide at bit.ly/2nLIUdi.
8 UNLOCK YOUR SCREEN
If your PC’s screen has been locked, you need Trend Micro’s Ransomware Screen Unlocker Tool ( bit.ly/1qiSmSp). This comes in two versions: one for ransomware that still lets you start Windows in Safe mode (see the guide at bit.ly/299ejN1 to see if you can), and another if you can’t. Either way, install the tool you need and the wizard will unlock your display in no time.