IDCARE Fact Sheet - Understanding Ransomware

Ransomware

Ransomware is a form of malware (a virus) that encrypts files, or denies the user the ability to access their device, or both. There are many forms of ransomware, but they all lead to a demand for payment of a ransom for access to be allowed.

Attacks typically come in the form of phishing emails, downloading free software, and remote access scams (someone being provided access to another person’s device and installing ransomware whilst in control). Once the ransomware has been executed, such as by clicking on links or attachments, the criminals have largely automated their whole process. Pop-ups or other screen messaging will alert the user to “a virus” or “encryption” or “computer being locked”. A contact point will be provided, typically with a short timeframe to respond to the ransom demand.

Detecting Ransomware

There are two ways to detect ransomware:

prior to executing the malware and
after executing the malware. The best way of detecting it before it’s executed is through antivirus. Make sure you run antivirus on all devices frequently. The other way is when it’s been executed and a demand is made.

Preventing Ransomware

Ensure you back-up all of your data.
Run anti-virus frequently and make sure it’s the most recent version – millions of viruses are created each year so your anti-virus needs to keep up with these.
Turn off your cloud storage when you are not using it (like Google, DropBox, OneDrive etc).
Keep your operating system and apps/ software updated.
Consider blocking ads and pop-ups, and think twice before downloading freeware (free downloads) without checking their security first!
Become familiar with how to spot phishing emails and never provide remote access to your device when someone calls or emails you first.

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Responding to Ransomware

There are hundreds of ransomware types, but unfortunately most cannot be decrypted. Ransomware encrypts and the criminals using it have the tools to decrypt. Before you think about paying, you may want to try the following:

EUROPOL and a number of software security vendors have launched a free decryption check called CRYPTO SHERIFF that can be accessed at.
Decryption services – these are by no means a guaranteed result and most cost money.
Assess what’s at risk and would be lost. If there’s too much at stake you may have to consider paying but be careful, you’re dealing with criminals.

Disclaimer

Identity Care Australia & New Zealand Ltd (IDCARE) provides identity and cyber security incident response services (the Services) in accordance with the following disclaimer of service:

IDCARE is Australia and New Zealand’s national identity and cyber incident community support service. We are a not-for-profit charity.

The Services provide do not constitute legal advice. IDCARE recommends that you consult a solicitor in relation to your legal rights and obligations, including but not limited to your legal rights or obligations under Australian and international privacy and data protection laws.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this product or service, to the maximum extent permitted by law all conditions, terms, representations, and warranties (in each case, whether express or implied) in connection with the provision of the Services which might otherwise be binding upon IDCARE are excluded.
IDCARE’S liability for any loss or damage suffered by any person or organisation (including, without limitation, any direct, indirect or consequential loss or damage) arising out of or in connection with the Services (including without limitation liability for any negligent act or omission, or statement, representation or misrepresentation of any officers, employees, agents, contractors or consultants of IDCARE) shall be limited to the fees paid by you to IDCARE in respect of the Services. For the avoidance of doubt, this limitation of liability extends to any liability arising from any actions performed or not performed as a result of any recommendations made in course of providing the Services.
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While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this alert, IDCARE disclaims any liability to any person in respect to any actions performed or not performed as a result of the contents of the alert or any accompanying data provided. Wider dissemination may be permitted by authority in writing from IDCARE’s Managing Director. If you would like to provide feedback please use our Feedback Form.

Understanding Ransomware

Learning Centre

Ransomware

Detecting Ransomware

Preventing Ransomware

Responding to Ransomware

Disclaimer

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