What is Ransomware? How It Works and How to Remove It?

ransomware

Last updated on July 26th, 2023 at 2:23 pm

Ever since the computer is introduced to us, the way everything around us operates has been completely changed. For most of the part, it has been extremely good, but it also has brought some unwanted and unpleasant scenarios as well. While computers are being used for pretty much every purpose, we now have millions of computers all around the world.

Well, there’s a darker side to this phenomenon, which is the aspect of cyber attacks. Even though digital threats are nothing new to us, but recently they’ve been growing stronger with exponential pace.

The latest threat that shook the digital world is ransomware, especially popularized by the ‘wannacry’ attack. Thousands of people have become victim to this ransomware attack. To know what is ransomware and other related information, keep on reading.

What is Ransomware?

Ransomware is a type of malicious software, which is also shortly known as malware. It attacks vulnerable computers and gets access to all the files in the devices. After achieving access, it then encrypts those files and demands money as ransom from the device owner.

Unless the person pays the ransom amount, the computer will stay in locked mode, making it impossible to access your data. Let’s have a look at some of the popular ransomware types:

what is ransomware

Image Source: condecdn.net

  • Scareware: Well, you don’t really have to be scared just because it has the term ‘scare’ in its name. Basically, it’s a fake program that claims itself to be a genuine security program. It then offers you assistance in fixing various types of system issues. If you accept the offer you’ll be asked to pay subscription fee. If you still proceed with that, you will just lose money and nothing gets fixed. To be precise, it’s just a scamming method. This type of ransomware is deployed through pop-up, which if you ignore, you’ll be just fine.
scareware

Image Source: fraudwatchinternational.com

  • Doxware: Now, we move to the next level of ransomware threats, which is Doxware, alternatively known as leakware. If your device is infected with this type of malicious software, you’re almost doomed. As we all store confidential and personal files on our devices, doxware, after attacking your computer, threatens to leak your information unless you pay ransom money.
doxware

Image Source: thewindowsclubco

  • Encrypting Ransomware: This is the most lethal form you can get from ransomware. Many famous cyber attacks come under this category, as they’ve bamboozled a lot of people around the world. Basically, hackers use this attack method to get hold of a device and then to encrypt it completely. Unless you pay the demanded amount of money as ransom, you can’t get access to your device and files in it. It is as dangerous as it gets if you’ve fallen victim to this category.
wannacry ransomware

Image Source: computerworlduk.com

How does Ransomware work?

As discussed above, a ransomware program attacks your computer and then encrypts the data in it. You can get access to your files only if you pay the ransom money. So, to understand the process of how it works in a better way, let’s have a look at some of the key steps involved in the attack:

how it works

Image Source: trendmicro.com

  • Generally, it all starts with the deployment of the malware into your device, either through an e-mail, pop-up, or any other source.
  • When the user clicks on the source, which is disguised as an important item, a redirection to a new landing page takes place.
  • Once the website redirection happens, the server hosting the ransomware begins communicating with your device.
  • As soon as a vulnerability is found in the victims’ computer, the malware file download begins.
  • The final step involves the encryption of the victim’s files and information, after which a message appears with payment details.

How to remove Ransomware from your device?

Ransomware not only attacks corporate computers, but also targets commoners like you and me. Once attacked, it’s very difficult to get rid of it. As they say, prevention is better than cure. If you want to be safe and secure, you must follow several precautionary measures. Here are a few things that you should do:

  • Never click on random links and suspicious emails.
  • Try to download any type of files from only official websites.
  • Don’t use pirated websites and services to download files.

If you’ve been attacked by ransomware, you should install anti-ransomware software to get rid of the malicious program. But, there’s no 100% guarantee that a security program will help you in such instances. It’s better to use a security software beforehand, so that it will prevent any type of attacks taking place.

Final Verdict

Now, you must be aware of what is ransomware and how it works. As you’ve also learnt how to prevent and remove it, now it’s time for you to take precautionary measure to stay safe. Download and start using a reputed anti-ransomware software to avoid any type of future attacks.

Author Bio:

Dinesh Lakhwani

Dinesh Lakhwani, the entrepreneurial brain behind “TechCommuters,” achieved big things in the tech world. He started the company to make smart and user-friendly tech solutions. Thanks to his sharp thinking, focus on quality and the motto of never giving up, TechCommuters became a top player in the industry. His commitment to excellence has propelled the company to a leading position in the industry.

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Popular Post

Recent Post

Best Virtual Machine Software for Windows 10/11 in 2024

By TechCommuters / December 3, 2021

A virtual machine software, often known as VM software, is an application that replicates a virtual computer platform. A VM is formed on a computer’s underlying operating platform, and the VM application generates virtual CPUs, disks, memory, network interfaces, and other devices. Virtual machine solutions are becoming more popular because of the flexibility and efficiency […]

How to Be a Better Project Manager

By TechCommuters / December 2, 2021

The role of the project manager is to provide you and your team with the goals, organizational systems, and feedback necessary for creating a positive workplace result. Everything from coding to content development can benefit from a high-quality project manager. This article will cover some of the actionable steps you can take to become better […]

How to Use a Dedicated Server for Gaming

By TechCommuters / December 2, 2021

Online multiplayer games offer the chance to connect and compete with your friends, meet new people, and work collaboratively to build something great. If you’re ready to take your online gaming experience to the next level, a dedicated server is a great option for hosting. Instead of operating game servers from your own hardware, you’ll […]

Importance of the Best Mirrorless Camera for Travelling

By TechCommuters / December 1, 2021

It can be difficult to find the best mirrorless camera for under 1000 dollars. This blog post discusses some of the best models on the market and provides a link to Amazon where you can purchase them. We are going to give you a couple of the best mirrorless cameras that are under 1000. We […]

How to Reset Network Settings on a Mac

By TechCommuters / December 1, 2021

Macs are usually always trustworthy, although you may experience issues attaching to the web or experiencing poor surfing speeds at times. The web may be operating well on your additional devices, which might be frustrating. That’s not always clear what’s causing an issue, or whether one exists at all. When you discover yourself in a […]

How to Create a Timeline in Google Slides

By TechCommuters / November 29, 2021

Timelines are an excellent method for displaying sequential listings of activities from start to end. It is a visual display of information that includes lists, charts, or visuals. A timeline is written down and organized in the same chronological sequence. A timeline is a smart method to condense information and better explain your brand using […]

How to Undo and Redo on a Mac

By TechCommuters / November 27, 2021

Almost every Mac software includes the option to implement an “Undo,” that would be, to overturn the previous action. Similarly, practically every single Mac software offers the capability to “Redo,” that would be, to completely upend the most recently undone operation. The Mac shortcut keys for doing Undo as well as Redo have always been […]

How to Increase Internet Speed on Windows 10

By TechCommuters / November 26, 2021

Internet connectivity is a mandated requirement for many routine works on Windows 10 systems. Whether it is some official work or personal work, having a smooth internet connection is important for both. However, internet connectivity is not so smooth for all Windows 10 users. This is due to multiple reasons like geographical issues, increased traffic, […]

How to upgrade to Windows 11 for free

By TechCommuters / November 25, 2021

Windows 11 offers the ultimate experience to the users and comes with multiple features. Hence, all devices require an updated version of Windows for seamless operations. Many times a user has to go to purchase the costly Windows 11. Due to the cost constraints, it is not feasible for all Windows users to purchase the […]

11 Best File Encryption Software for 2024

By TechCommuters / November 24, 2021

The finest encryption software enables keeping your files private and safe for security considerations, as well as protecting them against intrusion. When it relates to securing your data and documents, encryption software seems to have become increasingly vital. Hacking attempts and privacy breaches have made it simpler for total strangers to access the most private […]