What Is Ransomware, and How Can You Protect Yourself?
Ransomware is one of the fastest-growing and most destructive threats facing individuals and businesses today.
If you don't prepare before an attack, you may face devastating data loss, operational shutdowns, and expensive ransom demands.
Learn what ransomware is, how it spreads, and — most importantly — how to protect your digital world.
What is ransomware and how does it work?
Ransomware is a type of malicious software that encrypts your files or locks you out of your computer systems. Hackers then demand a ransom payment — often in cryptocurrency — in exchange for the decryption key. Without the key, your data becomes inaccessible.
Some ransomware strains also steal data before encrypting it, threatening to leak sensitive information if payment isn't made.
How do computers get infected with ransomware?
Common infection methods include:
Clicking on malicious email attachments or links (phishing attacks)
Downloading compromised software or files from untrustworthy websites
Exploiting outdated software vulnerabilities (unpatched systems)
Using unsecured remote desktop connections (RDP)
Even a single wrong click can trigger a ransomware infection.
How can I protect my computer or network from ransomware?
You can significantly lower your risk by:
- Keeping all systems, apps, and firmware updated
- Using strong endpoint protection (modern antivirus and EDR)
- Training yourself and your team to recognize phishing emails
- Backing up critical data securely and regularly
- Restricting admin rights and access controls on your network
- Using strong passwords and enabling two-factor authentication (2FA)
- Prevention is far less costly than recovery.
What should I do if my computer is infected with ransomware?
- Immediately disconnect the affected device from your network to prevent spread.
- Report the incident to your IT team or cybersecurity provider.
- Do not pay the ransom without professional advice.
- Assess whether you have clean backups to restore from.
- Work with cybersecurity experts to safely contain and remove the infection.
- Every minute matters once ransomware takes hold.
Should I pay the ransom if my files are encrypted by ransomware?
Experts, including the FBI, strongly advise against paying ransoms. Payment does not guarantee that you'll get your files back, and it encourages criminals to target more victims. Instead, focus on:
- Restoring from secure backups
- Engaging cybersecurity professionals to assist with recovery
- Reporting the attack to authorities
- Tip: Don’t pay the ransom—there’s no guarantee of file recovery and it fuels future attacks.
Can I recover my files without paying the ransom?
Yes — if you have:
- Verified, clean backups available
- Access to decryption tools (sometimes available for known ransomware strains)
- Support from a qualified cybersecurity team
- However, if no backups or decryption options exist, recovery becomes extremely difficult — which is why backup strategies are critical.
How can I safely remove ransomware from my system?
- Disconnect the device from all networks immediately.
- Use reputable antivirus or specialized anti-ransomware tools in Safe Mode.
- Wipe and rebuild infected systems if necessary.
- Only restore files from confirmed clean backups.
- After removal, perform a full forensic review to find the point of entry.
- Tip: Disconnect from the internet, scan with trusted antivirus in Safe Mode, and restore files from backups—don’t pay the ransom.
Will antivirus software protect me against ransomware?
Basic antivirus alone is no longer enough. Many ransomware strains are sophisticated and can bypass outdated protections. Modern cybersecurity includes:
- Next-Gen Antivirus (NGAV)
- Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)
- Email and web filtering
- User training and behavior monitoring
- Bellator Cyber offers layered protection beyond simple antivirus.
Will having backups protect me if ransomware strikes?
Yes — secure, isolated backups are your best defense against ransomware damage. Make sure:
- Your backups are encrypted
- You maintain multiple copies (including off-site)
- Backups are tested regularly for integrity
- Bellator Cyber helps design backup strategies that ensure you can quickly recover without giving in to ransom demands.
How Bellator Cyber Helps Protect You
Bellator Cyber provides advanced ransomware prevention, Ransomware Rollback™ solutions, endpoint protection, backup strategies, and cybersecurity training. Our layered defense approach helps you stay operational even when threats emerge.
