What are some of the most common myths about ransomware?
One of the most common myths about ransomware is that it can only infect Windows computers. This is not true! Ransomware can infect any type of computer, including Macs, Linux machines, and even smartphones.
Another myth is that you can only get ransomware if you click on a malicious link or download a malicious email attachment. Again, this is not true! Ransomware can spread through other means, such as via infected USB drives or by exploit kits that exploit vulnerabilities in unpatched software.
perhaps the most damaging myth about ransomware is that paying the ransom will guarantee that your files will be decrypted and you’ll get your data back. This is NOT true! There is no guarantee that paying the ransom will actually get your files back. In fact, there have been numerous cases where people have paid the ransom, but the attackers either didn’t decrypt their files or simply deleted them.
So, what can you do to protect yourself from ransomware? First and foremost, you need to have a good backup strategy in place. That way, even if your computer does get infected with ransomware, you’ll be able to restore your files from backup. Secondly, you need to make sure that your software is always up to date, as this will help to close any potential security vulnerabilities that could be exploited by ransomware. Finally, you should install a reliable antivirus program that can detect and block ransomware. Click for source
What happens if you don’t pay the ransom?
If you don’t pay the ransom, there are a few things that could happen. The person or organization who is holding your data hostage could choose to:
1. Do nothing
This is the most common outcome if you don’t pay the ransom. The attackers may not have the skill or resources to follow through on their threats, or they may simply decide that it’s not worth their time and effort to pursue non-paying victims.
2. Leak your data
In some cases, the attackers may make good on their threats and leak your data publicly. This could be done as a way to punish you for not paying, or as a way to demonstrate to other potential victims that they’re serious about their threats.
3. Sell your data
Another possibility is that the attackers could sell your data on the black market. This is often done in the case of personal data, such as credit card numbers or Social Security numbers, which can be used for identity theft or other fraud.
4. Destroy your data
In rare cases, the attackers may destroy your data if you don’t pay the ransom. This could be done as a way to get back at you, or as a way to make it more difficult for you to recover your data from backups (if you have them).
5. Attack your systems
Finally, the attackers could launch additional attacks against your systems if you don’t pay the ransom. This could be done in an attempt to extort more money from you, or simply to cause additional damage.
Ultimately, it’s up to the attackers what they do if you don’t pay the ransom. However, in most cases, you’re likely to either see no action taken or your data leaked publicly.
We used malwarezero.org to write this article about ransomware. Click for source.