Steps to protect home computer, laptop from new ransomware threat

WASHINGTON -- A fresh, inconvenient and possibly expensive ransomware threat is a great reminder of the security steps users can take to protect home computers and computers.

The Petya ransomware is affecting firms and government systems globally.

As computer security experts work to determine the particulars of Petya, simple measures can help lower the threat to customer computers.

As with previous ransomware strikes, for instance, recent WannaCry, the cybercriminals are employing a vulnerability in old Windows systems known as EternalBlue, reports USA Today.

Download Microsoft stains

Microsoft is continually working on patches to head-off new dangers as they're found, and they're detailed on the Microsoft website.

Regrettably, some users don't download patches that Microsoft has developed. It's possible to enable Microsoft to automatically upgrade your PC.

Back up from the cloud

Ken Colburn of all Data Doctors says conventional methods of backing up a pc using an external hard disk will be of no importance in case the system is assaulted because anything available to the pc also becomes encrypted.

Colburn prefers to rear up a pc in the cloud.

"The best and most cost effective shield against ransomware for most users is an Internet backup service such as Carbonite since it's not directly available during an attack, and it's automatic," he explained

Install security programs

Security programs can not only fight strikes, but notify users when malware is attempting to encrypt files.

"Just about every significant anti-virus/internet security program is including some kind of ransomware detection and security these days, so check to see what you could already have set up," Colburn said.

Malwarebytes has a free edition.

Be skeptical

A number of these attacks are executed via phishing emails, which seem legitimate, however install malware on a pc. Start looking for items which don't appear very appropriate, and avoid clicking on those links.

Free WiFi? No thanks

It may be cheap, but free WiFi extended in public areas may be insecure as without a password, an individual becomes subscribed to everyone else using this network. Kaspersky Lab proposes a VPN -- virtual private network -- is a must when linking to a company via an unsecured connection.

The post Measures to protect home computer, notebook from fresh ransomware threat appeared initially on WTOP.

source http://www.lighthousecomputersolution.com/steps-to-protect-home-computer-laptop-from-new-ransomware-threat/