Ransomware Meaning, Types, Examples, and Prevention | Cyber Attacks Types

 What is Ransomware?

Ransomware is a form of cyberattack when the criminal locks your files or computer in a way you cannot use them, then asks for money, often in some sort of digital currency, to give access back. It's like a burglar putting a new lock on your office and refusing to hand over the key unless you pay.

This sort of attack has forced the hospitals to delay treatment, businesses to cease operations, and entire offices to lose precious data.

How Does It Spread?

Ransomware normally slips in through:

1. Emails: An attachment or link in a suspicious email.
2. Websites: Clicking on phony ads or unsafe sites.
3. Remote Access: Weak or stolen passwords.
4. Infected USBs or software: Downloading files from unverified sources.

Once inside, it locks your files and displays a ransom note requesting payment.

Real-World Examples

• The hospitals have been locked out from the patient records.
• Companies have been forced to shut down for days, losing millions.
• The attack on Colonial Pipeline in 2021 disrupted fuel supplies across the U.S.

These incidents make it clear that ransomware doesn't just affect "IT"; it affects everyone.

What's the Impact?

• Work stops: You can't access your files or systems.
• Money Loss: Organizations pay the ransom or spend huge amounts recovering.
• Trust loss: Customers may cease trusting a company that loses their data.

How Can YOU Prevent It?

You don't have to be in IT to guard against ransomware. Everyday habits help:

1. Stop. Think. Click: Use caution with unexpected emails, links or attachments.
2. USE STRONG PASSWORDS: Do not use work passwords for personal accounts.
3. Enable multi-factor authentication, using apps or tokens where available.
4. Enable safe working: Back up key data on a regular basis; this is usually performed by your IT department, but you can assist by not keeping files solely on your desktop.
5. Report suspicious activity: If you see something unusual, such as a pop-up, an email, or a file that looks suspicious, notify IT immediately.

What to Do If You Suspect Ransomware

• Stop using the computer: disconnect it from Wi-Fi or unplug the cable.
• Inform the IT/security team immediately - don't try to "fix" it yourself
• Do not pay - paying does not guarantee your files will be restored.

Key Takeaway

Ransomware is everybody's problem, not just IT. Being careful