Ransomware is malicious software that encrypts files of your data storage system and demands a ransom to unlock them.
Ransomware can be installed through phishing emails, fake ads, or programs downloaded from unreliable websites. Once installed, ransomware will encrypt all the files, taking away your ability to use them.
Unlike other viruses or malware, ransomware is not interested in stealing or selling data on the dark web.
It exists only to extract money from its victims by holding their confidential information until they receive the desired payment in exchange for its release.
Ransomware Infection Process
1.
Entering the System
First, attackers need to insert malware into the selected network. Most often, this is a simple phishing attack using malware in embedded files. The ransomware then either runs locally or attempts to replicate itself on other computers on the network.
2.
Obtaining Security Keys
The malware then informs the attackers of entering the system and obtains the cryptographic keys to encrypt the data.
3.
Encryption Process
In this step, the ransomware performs encryption of the valuable files. It starts with the local disk and then tries to check the network for connected or open drives for the attack.
4.
Ransom Demand
The victim’s data is affected, and the attacker sends a notification demanding payment for decryption. Usually, it specifies some dollar figure with threats like “pay us, or you will lose your data.”
It is difficult to determine the profitability of criminal activity now. Still, the frequency of the attacks indicates that the attackers see the profit and continue to use these methods.
Recently, the extortion plan has been based on the threat of data disclosure. The ransomware can not only encrypt the data on the system but also pass it to the attackers. This is followed by a threat: pay us, or your data will be in the public domain.
5.
Unlock and Recover Data
It matters whether the victim pays the ransom and hopes the attacker will honestly send the decryption keys. Attackers usually do not provide the keys even after receiving the money.
The business can severely suffer from all the complications and consequences of ransomware. You can not prevent an attacker from revealing stolen data. What you can do is protect your systems and avoid ransomware infiltration.
How to Prevent Ransomware
There are several steps to go through to decrease the chances of ransomware within your system. Backing up the data to protect against ransomware is one of the primary measures to avoid severe data loss situations. Regularly saving sensitive information to external storage devices or cloud storage makes hacker threats meaningless.
Also, when using the Internet, do not forget about security. To minimize your chances of being infected with ransomware, you need to be very careful.
For a business, it is essential to perform regular staff training. This way, your employees will be warned about all the issues that can be caused by ransomware.
After taking these steps, ensure you have the tools to quickly restore the operating system, applications, and archives on your device in case of a ransomware attack. Both businesses and individuals should familiarize themselves with disaster recovery and backup strategies.
Nevertheless, if the ransomware cannot be avoided, there are other methods, apart from paying, that can help you. Data recovery is one of the most efficient and suitable options for returning your valuable data.
Ransomware Data Recovery with PITS
PITS Global Data Recovery Services offers ransomware recovery solutions for businesses and individuals throughout the United States. Our specialists are able to work on any enterprise-level storage device, restoring the files with maximum results.
Our company does not stay in one place and regularly develops its recovery methods. In addition, our technicians constantly attend qualification courses and expand their knowledge areas. This way, PITS delivers a solution for any ransomware scenario.
PITS engineers provide each case with an individual approach and the highest level of attention. Safely working on your device, we remove ransomware, decrypt all the valuable data and restore access to it.
Benefits of Using Our Ransomware Recovery Service:
50+ Offices and Drop-off Points
24/7 Available Emergency Services
Overall 99% Recovery Success Rate
ISO Certified Class 10 Cleanroom
Flexible Recovery Service Options
Risk-free Diagnostics and Evaluation
When facing such a critical situation as ransomware, it is critical to act fast. For time-sensitive cases, PITS offers an emergency recovery service. With this option, all the required data will be recovered and returned within 8-48 hours.
Our company maintains all the security requirements. Hence, when entrusting their devices to us, our clients can rest assured that confidentiality will be supported.
Start your case with PITS Global Data Recovery Services, and you will not regret it. You can get in touch with us by calling 888 611 0737. Another way of contact is to fill out the form below with detailed information about your ransomware situation. Experts of PITS will gladly help you.