WannaCry and Other Ransomware Attacks

Bitcoin is a popular cryptocurrency for cybercriminals. It has always been hit-or-miss when it comes to extracting ransom from a victim. Not only is bitcoin a new currency, but not all victims are familiar with it. Bitcoin is a safer alternative than fiat currency for cybercriminals. However, Bitcoin is still not the most convenient method of ransom extraction. Therefore, you should always make sure to keep your bitcoin account up-to-date.WannaCry
The WannaCry ransomware attack was a worldwide cyberattack that took place in May 2017. The cryptoworm, WannaCry, encrypted data on Windows computers, demanding Bitcoin ransom payments. The ransom amount was high, but victims were able to restore their data after paying the hackers. What is the best way to recover data from the infected computer? How do I avoid being a victim of WannaCry ransomware?Screen lockers
Screen lockers are types of ransomware that lock up a victim's computer system and data. These ransomware infections operate by locking a victim's screen using a fullscreen window. The fullscreen window remains the topmost window on the system, blocking access to all other windows. Once installed, screen lockers will demand a ransom of anywhere from $100 to $500. Thankfully, many of these ransomware infections can be removed without requiring the payment of any money.Cryptowalls
A recent malware attack targeted corporate networks by using a Trojan called CryptoWall. This virus targets individual computers and shared hardware to encrypt data and demand a ransom to unlock it. These ransom demands are not only inconvenient, but they can be incredibly expensive. In order to prevent this from happening, malware researchers recommend avoiding paying the ransom unless you absolutely have to. Even if you do pay the ransom, your data will still be encrypted, so you shouldn't waste your money on paying the CryptoWall ransom.Data exfiltration
Forensic investigators are increasingly relying on file traversal activities and time stamps to piece together the story of ransom and data exfiltration. These activities give victims two compelling reasons to pay the ransom, preventing data leaks and preventing the theft of sensitive information. Acer, a company that was one of the first targets of a major ransomware attack, has provided a case study in this regard.Anti-detection components
Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts user files and demands a ransom in exchange for decryption keys. It comes in many different forms, written by different people and referred to by different names by antivirus companies. They all have a different set of capabilities and features, and there are usually multiple versions of the same ransomware infection. The initial response is crucial, and the right security solution can prevent it before it has the chance to infect your system.Payment methods
Although paying the ransom may seem like the fastest way to resolve the problem, there are several downsides. The ransomware never unlocks all of your data - it might only decrypt about 80% of it. And once it's decrypted, the ransomware stays on your system causing more problems. Besides, paying the ransom is effectively funding terrorists and human traffickers. This money is then used for illicit activities such as drug running and prostitution.