Warning Signs of a Ransomware Infection You Might Be Missing

Warning Signs of a Ransomware Infection You Might Be Missing

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While there are many forms of cyber-crime, from key loggers that steal your login information to phishing schemes that steal your identity, ransomware just might be the scariest and most destructive. Unlike those other types of cyber intrusion, a ransomware attack encrypts all the files on your hard drive or company network, rendering the data inaccessible.

Countless individuals, businesses and governmental agencies have already fallen prey to ransomware, and this type of crime shows no signs of slowing down. Every time a ransom is paid, the criminals become even bolder, increasing the odds that the next ransomware victim will be you or your company.

You already know that having robust antivirus protection, keeping your operating system up to date, backing up your data and watching what you click can provide a first line of defense against ransomware. But do you know the early warning signs of a ransomware attack? Do you know what to look for, and how to tell if your computer has already been compromised? Here are some telltale signs that a ransomware attack is already underway.

Inaccessible Files

Many strains of ransomware do not encrypt all your files at once. In an attempt to stay hidden and fly under the radar, ransomware can do its damage slowly, so slowly you may not notice that the attack is underway.

One of the first warning signs of a ransomware infection is the presence of inaccessible files. If you try to open a file and get an error message, it is time to investigate the cause. If you are infected with ransomware, the number of inaccessible files will grow exponentially, until your entire hard drive is useless. As each new file is encrypted, it will no longer be accessible, and you should never ignore this classic warning sign.

Renamed Files

As each additional file is encrypted by a ransomware infection, the file name will change. If you notice any changes in the file names on your computer, you should suspect a ransomware infection.

In addition to changes in file names, you should look for alterations in file extensions, the three or four digit codes used to designate Word files, Excel files and so on. Any such changes should be carefully investigated – and a full ransomware scan should be completed.

The complete absence of a file extension should also be cause for concern, so pay close attention when reviewing the contents of your hard drive. If file extensions are turned on and you still cannot see them, it is time for a further investigation.

A Sudden Slowdown

Encrypting large numbers of files requires lots of computing power, and that can trigger a sudden slowdown in the performance of your PC. If your formerly fast computer has slowed to a crawl, a ransomware infection could be to blame.

Any sudden slowdown should be cause for concern, and the cause should be investigated right away. Even if your computer is not infected with ransomware, it could be harboring a hidden virus or key logging program.

The threat of ransomware is growing every day, and every time a ransom demand is met it just makes the situation worse. If you want to protect yourself and your data, you need to be on the lookout for the early signs of an infection.

If you noticed any of the symptoms outlined above, your computer may already be infected.  Rest assured that our team is standing by to help.  Our experts are with you every step of the way offering consultancy support and advice on everything from data security to managing workstations.  Contact us to see how we can protect your data and your business.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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