Ransomware is a kind of malware (malicious software) that criminals install on
your computer so they can lock it from a remote location. Ransomware generates
a pop-up window, webpage, or email warning from what looks like an official
authority. It explains that your computer has been locked because of possible
illegal activities on it and demands payment before you can access your files
and programs again.
How do criminals
install ransomware?
Ransomware is usually installed when you open
a malicious email attachment or when you click a malicious link in an email
message or instant message or on a social networking site or other website.
Ransomware can even be installed when you visit a malicious website.
How do I avoid
ransomware?
There are several free ways to help protect
your computer against ransomware and other malware:
- Keep
all of the software on your computer up to date. Make sure automatic updating is turned on to get all the latest Microsoft security
updates.
- Keep
your firewall turned on.
- Don't
open spam email messages or
click links on suspicious websites.
- Download Microsoft Security
Essentials, which is free, or use another reputable antivirus
and anti-malware program. If you run Windows 8 or Windows RT, you don’t
need Microsoft Security Essentials.
- Scan
your computer with the Microsoft
Safety Scanner.
What should I do if I
have ransomware on my computer?
To detect and remove ransomware and other
malicious software that might be installed on your computer, run a full-system
scan with an appropriate, up-to-date, security solution. The following
Microsoft products can detect and remove this threat:
- Windows Defender (built into Windows 8)
- Microsoft Security
Essentials
- Microsoft
Safety Scanner
- Windows Defender Offline (Some ransomware will not allow you to use the products
listed here, so you might have to start your computer from a Windows
Defender Offline disk.)
