Video: Malware and ransomware

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The internet is home to an infinite amount of great content.

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There are videos of cats,

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pictures of cats,

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GIFs of cats,

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memes with cats in them, you name it —

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lots of great stuff lives on the internet.

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Unfortunately, there are also cyber threats out there that can prevent you from enjoying an endless stream of cat-based content.

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One of the most common cyber threats is malware:

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malicious software created to cause damage to your data, device or network.

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There are many types of malware that serve lots of different purposes.
 
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Ransomware is one of them.

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Ransomware is pretty much what it sounds like — a type of malware that holds your data, devices or network for, well, ransom.

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Ransomware locks your screen or encrypts your files and holds them hostage until you send money

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(often in an untraceable digital currency like Bitcoin) to the attackers

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Unlike some other types of malware, it’s very easy to tell if you have ransomware on your system.

(ON SCREEN TEXT: HELLO I’M RANSOMWARE)

(ONSCREEN TEXT: “c:\threat message. We have all your files if you want them back transfer money to this account: url.2398hj2nk”)

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That’s because it proudly announces itself — usually with a popup page explaining the terms of the ransom.

(ONSCREEN TEXT: “THERE HAS BEEN ILLEGAL ACTIVITY RECORDED ON YOUR DEVICE.”)

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Sometimes ransomware messages look like they’re from law enforcement, saying your device is locked because you’ve done illegal things online.

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This scare tactic is a lie to make people panic and react.

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So how do you protect yourself?

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Luckily, the steps to prevent malware are basic cyber safety measures you should be doing anyway, like

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keeping an eye out for phishing messages

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making sure your OS and software are updated

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using cyber security tools like antivirus software, spam filters and firewalls and frequently backing up your files offline.

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When it comes to ransomware, this one is extra important.

(ONSCREEN TEXT: “CLICK HERE FOR OUR NEWEST DEALS” “YOUR ACCOUNT HAS BEEN COMPROMISED” )

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Being careful can prevent most malware on your device, but it only takes one click to get compromised.

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If your device is infected with ransomware, don’t panic! Here’s what you can do to minimize the damage:

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First, disconnect all devices from your network as soon as possible.

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Some ransomware can spread to other connected devices.

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Next, report the attack to law enforcement and, if necessary, call an IT expert to help you remove the malware.

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You should also do a bit of cyber security cleanup,

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like changing your passwords and updating your devices.

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Most importantly: do whatever you can to avoid paying.

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You could end up on a list of people and organizations known to pay ransoms, putting yourself at even more risk for repeat attacks.

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If your files are backed up, it will be easier to restore your data without paying the ransom.

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Ransomware can seem scary.

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But being prepared for the worst-case scenario can make it a lot more manageable,

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so you can quickly get back to doing what you love online.

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Visit getcybersafe.ca for more information and advice on all things cyber security.