Since there is a lot of information about ransomware that sometimes FYP on Google News, Instagram, X, and Tiktok, especially after the National Data Center was hit by Lockbit 3.0 Ransomware, why don’t we try to review how to prevent ransomware on Windows operating systems, including Windows 10, 11, and Server.
For those who are unaware, ransomware is a sort of software that threatens victims by deleting or restricting access to critical data or systems unless a ransom is paid. In a ransomware attack, the attacker locks or encrypts the victim’s device or data and demands a fee to recover access.
But there are a few tactics you can use to keep ransomware from infecting your system, and here they are.
Use Windows or original applications.
In general, consumers encounter ransomware by using untrustworthy apps like cracks, patches, and activators downloaded from unknown websites.
Users who are uninformed and anxious to activate Windows or apps may disregard the risks associated with cracks and activators. Furthermore, certain websites frequently say “Turn off Windows Defender (Required)” with the explanation “False alarm,” even though turning off Windows Defender is a very bad idea since it might open up even more security gaps.
Use the Best Anti-Malware
Windows Defender is already rather effective, particularly with the ransomware prevention function. Aside from the fact that the capability is not enabled by default, Windows Defender is not always effective in protecting user data from new malware threats.
With that stated, make sure you’re using the greatest anti-malware application available, which includes Kaspersky, BitDefender, Norton, McAfee, Esset, and others. If you want free, choose Avast or AVG, which are both better than Windows Defender.
Make sure Windows is updated
If Windows is not updated regularly, it will undoubtedly expose security flaws. For those who are unaware, Microsoft’s monthly updates frequently close various security holes or new vulnerabilities discovered, so you must obtain the most recent updates, especially if the system will be used online.
If you’re using Windows OS (including Windows Server), ensure sure the version you’re using is still supported, since if it isn’t, Microsoft will no longer deliver updates with critical security fixes.
Avoid Dangerous Sites
In addition to sites that provide cracks, patches, and activators, which frequently include malware and have been reported by various antivirus software, you should avoid risky sites, particularly those that you are unfamiliar with.
For example, sites that show as pop-up adverts when you visit a website, online gambling sites, unknown pornographic sites, and unfamiliar file-sharing sites.
Avoiding these sites will reduce your chances of becoming infected with ransomware.
Do not download files carelessly.
If you wish to download a file, make sure it’s from an official and reputable site. Also, don’t download files carelessly, especially if they’re in.zip or other archive formats .exe for executable files, or files that might contain malware.
If you see a video in.exe format (e.g., scandal.mp4.exe), it is most likely malware that might be ransomware; do not click it, even if your curiosity is piqued.
Data Backup
For home Windows users, this data backup is optional; just backup the most critical data to Google Drive, OneDrive, or your external HDD.
However, data backup is extremely important for Windows Server; at the absolute least, all data on the hard disk should be backed up on a daily or monthly basis.
For data backup apps, Windows often offers a Backup and Restore option (Windows 7) that can be accessed from the Control Panel, but you can also utilize third-party software like EaseUS Todo Backup or other backup applications.
However, it should be noted that the backup file must be stored on a separate storage medium, such as an external HDD that is not always installed on the device, or a backup server that, if Device or Server 1 is infected with ransomware, can be activated with all of the cloned data from Device or Server 1.
Try not to have this ridiculous conversation, guys.
Even more ludicrous is the phrase “no backup” in the context of a lack of cash. According to granulate.io, building a mid-size business data center with up to 100 racks or around 1,400 servers costs around $5 million, or IDR82 billion each year.
With around 40 million dollars or approximately Rp600 billion rupiah, it is deemed sufficient to establish numerous mid-enterprise class servers, as well as several backup servers storing copied data from the primary server.
So there are some ideas from Diabell News that you can use to safeguard your device from becoming infected with ransomware. safeguard in mind that if we are informed and vigilant, I believe ransomware will be unable to penetrate the system. As a result, we, as users of Brainware, hold the primary key to the state and security of the system we own, therefore stay sane.
