Types Of Ransomware
There are three main types of ransomware, ranging differently in severity.
- Scareware – This includes rogue security software and tech support scams. These are pop-up messages claiming that malware was discovered and the only way to get rid of it is to pay up. If you do nothing, you'll likely continue to be bombarded with pop-ups, but your files are essentially safe.
- Screen lockers – When you have this, you will be frozen out of your computer entirely. Upon starting up your computer, a full-size window will appear, often accompanied by an official-looking FBI or US Department of Justice seal saying illegal activity has been detected on your computer and you must pay a fine.
- Encrypting software – This will snatch up your files and encrypt them, demanding payment in order to decrypt and redeliver. Once cybercriminals get ahold of your files, no security software or system restore can return them to you.
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