There are several different kinds of computer malware out there that can affect your PC in numerous ways, but the one that is a big threat to business and home users alike and should be avoided at all costs is ransomware. From university students to large corporations, ransomware has affected millions of computers across the world. What the malware does is that it locks all the files in a computer, including documents, images, videos, and other programs and makes them completely inaccessible for its user. The attacker will also leave a note on your desktop that will say that you can get your files back as long as you pay the ransom, which usually has to be paid in cryptocurrency. Ransomware is one of the most common and biggest forms of cybercrime, and attackers have managed to make millions with this trick.
When I come across someone who’s PC has been affected by ransomware, the first question they ask is whether they should pay the ransom or not. If you have been attacked with ransomware recently, then I will strongly advise you not to pay the ransom and only consider it as a last resort. Even if other methods you have tried have failed, you should still consider paying the ransom only if the data has too much significance. You can also visit a ransomware expert like Cytelligence to learn more about ransomware removal. Let’s have a look at a few important steps you need to follow to remove ransomware from your computer.
Create A Backup
If your computer has been infected with ransomware, then the first thing you need to do is create a backup of all the files that have been encrypted. Ransomware malware also stores hidden files on your computer that gets activated after a certain amount of time and deletes all the encrypted files. Also, when you are using a decryption program to unlock all your files, there is a high chance that some of the files will get damaged during the decryption. That is why it is always best to have the backup of the encrypted file, so you don’t lose them permanently.
Turn Off System Optimization and Cleanup Tools
If you have turned on system optimization or are using tools like disk cleanup, keep your PC clean, then you need to turn them off immediately if you have been affected by ransomware. The reason behind that is the virus stores some of the files in your temporary folder, and if you run disk cleanup, those files will be removed. You don’t want to remove those files because they will later help you figure out what kind of ransomware has affected your PC. Also, as long as all the malware files are on the computer, you will have a better chance of getting rid of it.
Don’t Delete Files
It is important for you not to delete any kind of necessary files from your computer when it has been affected by ransomware. You can run your malware protection, and it will help you sport the infected files in your PC, but instead of deleting them, you should quarantine them as later it will help you find out what exactly the ransomware has done to your PC.
Look for Help Online
There are a lot of decryption programs available out there that can help you decrypt your locked files. But in order to use those programs, you will first have to figure out what kind of ransomware has affected your computer, and that can be tricky. You can hire a ransom removal service as well online as they will help you figure out the type of ransomware you have and will also help you decrypt your files.
