What is ransomware?

You've probably heard of malware, but what is ransomware? We clarify this question in our practical tip.

This is ransomware

Ransomware is a very malicious malware that locks your computer completely (lockscreen) or encrypts important files such as invoices. "Ransom" is the English word for "ransom" and also means what the Trojan wants you to do: money.

This is what ransomware does: lock the system

Ransomware, which locks your computer with a so-called lockscreen, can be recognized by the fact that a message from an alleged authority is shown. You cannot close this message and cannot open the Task Manager. Your system is locked.

• If your computer is infected with ransomware, a message appears at system startup that claims to be from the police or a similar agency.
• It is stated that you as a user have committed an illegal act. To compensate for the penalty, you should pay an amount of money.
• It is promised that the block will be lifted again after payment of the penalty.
• If the above messages come up, you can assume that your PC is infected with ransomware. Under no circumstances pay any amounts, the block remains anyway.

What ransomware does: encrypting files

Files encrypted with ransomware can no longer be opened by you. A message appears on the screen that your files have been encrypted.

• In order to decrypt the files again, an amount of money is required, which you have to pay within a certain period.
• If you try to decrypt the files yourself, the malware threatens to delete your files.
• Under no circumstances pay any amounts, the encryption remains.

This is how ransomware gets on your PC

Unfortunately, there are several ways to infect ransomware. As a user, you will only notice the malware the next time you restart your computer.

• It is enough if you surf the Internet and get to an infected website. The implemented malware is then executed, which leads to a download and the installation of the malware on your computer.
• The ransomware can also infect your PC by email. Usually a bill is faked, often over a large amount. If you click on the attachment, the malware will run and your computer will be infected.
• You can also get the ransomware on your PC via contaminated downloads. Risks can arise from peer-to-peer networks, links in chat rooms or social networks, in download portals for illegal software, music and films.

We have summarized what you can do in a practical tip using the example of the ransomware FBI Moneypak virus.