How to protect your PC from ransomware
Lisa Du is director of ReadyTechGo, a service that helps people gain the confidence and skills to embrace modern technology.
By now you've probably heard that there’s been a recent spate of ransomware attack holding computer systems hostage worldwide, with increasing cases reported in Australia.
Here are the three tips you need to know to avoid becoming a victim:
If you are running older versions of Windows, you could be vulnerable:
- Windows 8
- Windows XP
- Windows Server 2003
To make sure you are protected, please upgrade your computer to the latest version of Windows.
Turn on Windows Update
We see many people disabling Microsoft's automatic updates because it can auto install at a time which is inconvenient to you.
To turn on Windows update, head over to the Control Panel and switch your automatic updates back on.
Install a ransomware blocker
You may have antivirus protection on your computer, and it won’t hurt to install a dedicated Ransomware Blocker. Try Malwarebytes Anti-Ransomware (in beta) or Cybereason Ransomfree.
Back it up
Back up your computer! Either to an external hard drive or to cloud storage.
If anything happens, you won't lose your precious information!
Remember, if you receive an email from a scammer, it can look pretty legitimate. Always look for signs of a scam before you click or open attachments!
Have you ever fallen victim to an online scam?