FBI: Ransomware use is on the rise for businesses, private individuals

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) this week warned the public that ransomware attacks are on the rise for businesses and consumers alike.

“As cybercriminals become more cunning and sophisticated, we must become more vigilant about basic digital hygiene and protecting our data and devices – including smartphones and tablets,” Michael Kaiser, executive director of the National Cyber Security Alliance, said. “There are simple things everyone can do like keeping all software updated, turning on two-factor authentication, backing up data in the cloud or other removable media and making strong passwords.”

Ransomware is a type of malware that accesses files, locks and encrypts them, and then forces victims to pay a ransom to get those files back. Typically, these type of attacks happen when a user opens an attachment that appears legitimate, but actually contains the ransomware code. Email and social media appear to be the primary ways cybercriminals are infiltrating unsuspecting computer networks.

The FBI has made some suggestions for users looking to protect their important files, including keeping all machine clean by updating software, enabling two-step verification for all important accounts like email and financial services, backing up all files, using more complex passwords, using security software to scan all external USB devices, and deleting all suspicious pieces of email.