Which Of The Following Best Describes The Average Hacker?

Ransomware

Ransomware is a type of malicious software, or malware, that prevents you from accessing your computer files, systems, or networks and demands you pay a ransom for their return. Ransomware attacks can cause costly disruptions to operations and the loss of critical information and data.

You can unknowingly download ransomware onto a computer by opening an email attachment, clicking an ad, following a link, or even visiting a website that's embedded with malware.

Once the code is loaded on a computer, it will lock access to the computer itself or data and files stored there. More menacing versions can encrypt files and folders on local drives, attached drives, and even networked computers.

Most of the time, you don't know your computer has been infected. You usually discover it when you can no longer access your data or you see computer messages letting you know about the attack and demanding ransom payments.

Tips for Avoiding Ransomware

The best way to avoid being exposed to ransomware—or any type of malware—is to be a cautious and conscientious computer user. Malware distributors have gotten increasingly savvy, and you need to be careful about what you download and click on.

Other tips:

Keep operating systems, software, and applications current and up to date.
Make sure anti-virus and anti-malware solutions are set to automatically update and run regular scans.
Back up data regularly and double-check that those backups were completed.
Secure your backups. Make sure they are not connected to the computers and networks they are backing up.
Create a continuity plan in case your business or organization is the victim of a ransomware attack.

Your computer screen freezes with a pop-up message—supposedly from the FBI or another federal agency—saying that because you violated some sort of federal law your computer will remain locked until you pay a fine. Or you get a pop-up message telling you that your personal files have been encrypted and you have to pay to get the key needed decrypt them.

How to Respond and Report

The FBI does not support paying a ransom in response to a ransomware attack. Paying a ransom doesn't guarantee you or your organization will get any data back. It also encourages perpetrators to target more victims and offers an incentive for others to get involved in this type of illegal activity.

If you are a victim of ransomware:

Contact your local FBI field office to request assistance, or submit a tip online.
File a report with the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).

Resources

10.28.2021

Russian National Extradited to United States to Face Charges for Alleged Role in Cybercriminal Organization

Vladimir Dunaev, a Russian national, had his initial appearance in federal court for his alleged role in a transnational, cybercriminal organization.
10.22.2021

#BECYBERSMART—Cybersecurity Awareness Month & Ransomware + Video Link

During Cybersecurity Awareness Month, observed each October, the FBI and its partner agencies remind you to do your part and #BeCyberSmart all year long.
06.07.2021

Deputy Director Speaks at Press Conference on Colonial Pipeline Ransomware Attack

FBI Deputy Director Paul M. Abbate delivered remarks during a press conference in Washington, D.C., with Department of Justice officials announcing the seizure of ransom proceeds from the group DarkSide following the Colonial Pipeline network compromise.
06.07.2021

Department of Justice Seizes $2.3 Million in Cryptocurrency Paid to the Ransomware Extortionists DarkSide

The Department of Justice seized funds allegedly representing the proceeds of a ransom payment to individuals in a group known as DarkSide, which targeted Colonial Pipeline and resulted in critical infrastructure being taken out of operation.
06.04.2021

FBI Statement on Recent Ransomware Attacks

With the recent rapid increase in ransomware attacks against private sector companies, the FBI has made these investigations a top priority. If you believe you have been a victim of a cybercrime, contact your local FBI field office.
03.23.2021

FBI Tech Tuesday: Building a Digital Defense Against Ransomware

The FBI Phoenix Field Office is warning the public about ransomware attacks in this month's Tech Tuesday.
02.04.2021

The National Cyber Investigative Joint Task Force Releases Ransomware Fact Sheet

The NCIJTF's ransomware fact sheet provides the public with important information on the current ransomware threat and the government's response.
01.27.2021

Department of Justice Launches Global Action Against NetWalker Ransomware

The Department of Justice announced a coordinated international law enforcement action to disrupt a sophisticated form of ransomware known as NetWalker.
01.25.2021

Cypriot Hacker Pleads Guilty to Extorting Website Operators with Stolen User Data

Joshua Polloso Epifaniou, a Cypriot national, has pleaded guilty to accessing multiple major websites based in the United States without authorization.
08.25.2020

Russian National Arrested for Conspiracy to Introduce Malware Into a Nevada Company's Computer Network

Egor Igorevich Kriuchkov, a Russian national, made his initial appearance in federal court for his role in a conspiracy to extort ransom money from a company.