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Simple steps to protect files from ransomware.
Ransomware-type malware is a serious threat. It encrypts files on the computer, blocking access to them until the victim pays the demanded ransom. Files become hostages, and if it is not possible to cope with the attack by other methods, the user has to agree to the conditions of the attackers.
A recent CBS News story reminded us of how devastating such attacks can be. In particular, the Scattered Spider ransomware group dealt a severe blow to Las Vegas casinos, resulting in multi-million dollar losses. Although ordinary users are less susceptible to such attacks, you should not tempt fate.
One of the best ways to protect against ransomware is to use websites and files carefully, as well as install anti-virus software. Modern antivirus programs often restrict application access to files in folders, which are the main targets for ransomware. The built-in Microsoft Defender program in Windows (formerly Windows Defender) can also do this, but these additional protections aren't activated by default and the user needs to enable them themselves.
How to enable ransomware protection in Windows
1. Opening Windows Security
First, you need to open the Windows Security app. This can be done in several ways:
2. Setting up ransomware
protection Go to the "Virus and Threat Protection" section, then select "Manage Ransomware Protection" at the bottom of the screen. Enable the "Controlled Folder Access" option. This feature restricts app access to folders such as OneDrive, Documents, Pictures, Videos, Music, and Favorites. Optionally, you can manually add other folders.
3. Application authorization
Some programs, such as Microsoft Office, have automatic access to these folders. However, if the application is not on the list of trusted, it will not be able to see the contents of folders without explicit permission, which can be granted through Windows Security.
4. OneDrive
Verification For complete protection, it is important to have backup copies of your files. If you're connected to OneDrive, Windows will automatically create these copies. To verify that the feature works, go to "Ransomware Protection" and open the "Data Recovery from Attacks" section.
Should I enable ransomware protection?
Ransomware protection is a balance between security and convenience. For example, it may be inconvenient for gamers if access to save files stored in the Documents folder is blocked by default. However, the problem can be easily solved by adding the desired application to the allowlist or saving the files in a different folder.
To protect data, it is also recommended to store backups not only in the cloud, but also in offline storage. This provides stronger protection in case of a ransomware attack.
Source
Ransomware-type malware is a serious threat. It encrypts files on the computer, blocking access to them until the victim pays the demanded ransom. Files become hostages, and if it is not possible to cope with the attack by other methods, the user has to agree to the conditions of the attackers.
A recent CBS News story reminded us of how devastating such attacks can be. In particular, the Scattered Spider ransomware group dealt a severe blow to Las Vegas casinos, resulting in multi-million dollar losses. Although ordinary users are less susceptible to such attacks, you should not tempt fate.
One of the best ways to protect against ransomware is to use websites and files carefully, as well as install anti-virus software. Modern antivirus programs often restrict application access to files in folders, which are the main targets for ransomware. The built-in Microsoft Defender program in Windows (formerly Windows Defender) can also do this, but these additional protections aren't activated by default and the user needs to enable them themselves.
How to enable ransomware protection in Windows
1. Opening Windows Security
First, you need to open the Windows Security app. This can be done in several ways:
- Open the Start menu, type "Windows Security" and press Enter.
- Open "Settings", select the "Windows Security" section in the left panel.
2. Setting up ransomware
protection Go to the "Virus and Threat Protection" section, then select "Manage Ransomware Protection" at the bottom of the screen. Enable the "Controlled Folder Access" option. This feature restricts app access to folders such as OneDrive, Documents, Pictures, Videos, Music, and Favorites. Optionally, you can manually add other folders.
3. Application authorization
Some programs, such as Microsoft Office, have automatic access to these folders. However, if the application is not on the list of trusted, it will not be able to see the contents of folders without explicit permission, which can be granted through Windows Security.
4. OneDrive
Verification For complete protection, it is important to have backup copies of your files. If you're connected to OneDrive, Windows will automatically create these copies. To verify that the feature works, go to "Ransomware Protection" and open the "Data Recovery from Attacks" section.
Should I enable ransomware protection?
Ransomware protection is a balance between security and convenience. For example, it may be inconvenient for gamers if access to save files stored in the Documents folder is blocked by default. However, the problem can be easily solved by adding the desired application to the allowlist or saving the files in a different folder.
To protect data, it is also recommended to store backups not only in the cloud, but also in offline storage. This provides stronger protection in case of a ransomware attack.
Source
