The number of ransomware attacks has increased drastically in past 2 years. From 2015 to 2016, the number of ransomware attacks were total 2 million and rose 17.7 % from the previous year. The affected individuals were reportedly victimized by the ransomware attacks. So, as you can see that the ransomware attack was one of the biggest cyber threats in past years and can be increased in this year of 2017!
According to the statistics of FBI published by MalwareBytes, hackers were able to gain more than $200 million through the ransomware and the total losses was around $1 billion. Can you even imagine that amount of money? Why does that happen? Are people really aware of the danger? Running ”only” a small business company and thinking that it cannot happen to you? Think again and get yourself educated about the cyber security tips! In this article, we will discuss why the ransomware problem is getting worse day-by-day. You will get to see some focused area of discussion. So let’s see –
Business
After the ransomware system breach, the hacker gets all the data and sell them to the black market. However, the worth of the stolen data is unpredictable on the black market. As an example: did you get your card info compromised by a ransomware attack? Well, now maybe the hacker is going to use or sell it into the black market. But if you call to the bank and block the card, the card will not have any use. So, your stolen card will only be valuable until you block it.
On the other hand, online payment can be another trap of ransomware. Nowadays, many online e-commerce sites are acting as the middleman between the sellers and customers. Customers are allowed to access their personal information(card numbers) on those sites which can be easily stolen. Be aware of your actions by getting yourself into the detailed research of the internet security tips! However, most of the sites are using Bitcoin-based payment system just to avoid any further outsiders attacks.
Popularity and Upgrades
Ransomware attack has become a hugely popular way to earn money. After the huge success, hackers are trying to take the ransomware attack into next level. There is a newer version of ransomware is known as the “Doxware.” Doxware is just like ransomware, but it has broad range effect on victims. Nowadays, ransomware attacks are not only against the PCs. Hackers are using the ransomware against smart homes, vehicles and healthcare systems.
Protection against Ransomware
How to protect yourself from the ransomware?
Well, there is a way. If you are dealing with any sensitive file, you should keep the backup file for sure. In case, if you ever fall into the trap of ransomware, make sure you have the adequate backup to recover your lost data. This is the only viable way to survive ransomware attacks. You might be losing some amount of sensitive data, but still, you will be able to reduce the harm through the back-up.
So, this is all about the increasing growth of ransomware.
The number of the attack is climbing day by day. All we need to be careful about it. Hope the article was helpful. Share this news with your friends and let them know about it.