Ransomware has really taken off in 2016 with some sources reporting a quadruple increase in the first quarter of 2016.

What is ransomware?

It is basically a virus that is spread by means of downloaded files or other network vulnerabilities.

Once it infects your pc or network, it starts encrypting all your data in the background. When finished it displays a message alerting you to the fact that your data is encrypted and you now need to pay a ransom to get your data back:

This leaves you with one of two options:

1) Pay the exorbitant ransom
2) Say goodbye to your files

So how can you go about protecting yourself?

Step 1 – Make sure your antivirus software is up to date.
Step 2 – BACKUPS! – This is the important one…

Simple Backup procedure:

Get a large flash disk (64gb) or an external hard drive (1 – 2 terabytes). It depends on the amount of data on your pc.

* Make regular backups of your data to this external device. (We will post some hints and procedures for this shortly)
* Disconnect and store your backup drive in a safe place.

External backups can save your life (data) in any of the following events:

* Ransomware
* Hard Disk Crashes
* Lightning Damage
* Laptop theft
* Oops-what-did-I-delete scenarios

Your pc can easily be replaced, but not your data.