Are you concerned about the safety of the information stored on your computer?

Whether you use your computer for pleasure, work, or both, it can be susceptible to ransomware.

Cybersecurity Ventures predicts that ransomware damages will surpass $11.5 billion by 2019. This annual figure represents the global impact caused by this dangerous software.

This threat means you must place an emphasis on the security of your computer system. But, what can you do to guard your system against the threat of these attacks?

Read on to learn how to protect your computer system from ransomware.

Take a Proactive Defense

One of the most effective ways to prevent a ransomware attack is to be proactive.

But what does that mean?

You should be wary of suspicious email messages or those from people you do not know. Avoid opening emails from unknown senders. These can contain malicious programs, dangerous viruses, or other harmful software.

Phishing emails seek your sensitive personal information by posing as a legitimate company. These emails look like they are from trusted sources such as your bank, employer, or health insurance company.

Take extra precautions with these emails that request your personal information.

Use Updated Security Programs

You can protect against ransomware attacks by using specialized software.

This software is designed to detect and prevent ransomware attacks. But you must use the most updated version of the software to ensure you protect your system from ransomware. Using older versions puts you at risk of falling victim to new ransomware threats.

In 2017, there were three major outbreaks of different types of ransomware. These adversely affected computer systems across the world and caused millions of dollars in damages. In severe cases, people had their identities stolen.

As previously mentioned, keeping your ransomware software is up-to-date can help lower the chances of a ransomware attack. But it is important to remember that none of these programs will offer you 100% protection.

Therefore, these programs should be only one part of your defense against ransomware in order to ensure that your computer is as secure as possible.

Backup, Backup, Backup

This can’t be emphasized enough. Even the most complex of anti-virus and anti-ransomware software is bound to let something through the cracks. How will your company react when hit with ransomware?

The backups that you have, and how often they are taken will directly impact your bottom line. How long will you be down? How quickly can you recover if you are compromised?

Leverage Managed IT Services

Managed IT services can help you with ransomware protection and removal.

A managed IT service allows you to leverage the expertise of trained industry professionals. These IT employees are dedicated to learning about the latest threats to your system. This helps them to design a computer system that is set up to protect you.

If you are a business owner, this is especially important for you and your employees. By using managed IT services, this allows you to avoid spending extra time on IT issues. This way, your company can focus on what matters – the development and marketing of your products and services.

Wrapping Up: Protect Your Computer From Ransomware Attacks

A ransomware attack has the potential to cripple your computer system. It can also bring your business to a standstill.

Osterman Research performed a study on more than 1,000 small or medium-sized businesses. It found that one in six organizations had at least 25 hours of downtime because of ransomware. This downtime can cost you hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

At Remarkable Tek, we offer affordable website hosting, proactive IT support services and more. Our IT support includes network setup and emergency onsite and offsite support.

Contact us today to learn more about our IT services and how we can help you protect your computer.