Ransomware Explained: What to do when your files are held hostage

Imagine turning on your computer one morning, only to find a red screen with a countdown timer. You try to open a photo of your children, but it won't open. You try to open your tax documents, but they are locked.

A message pops up: "Your files are encrypted. Pay $500 in Bitcoin within 24 hours or they will be deleted forever."

This is Ransomware. It is digital kidnapping, and it is the fastest-growing cyber threat facing families in 2025.

How does Ransomware work?

Ransomware is a special type of virus that doesn't just "break" your computer; it locks your personal data. It uses military-grade encryption (the same math banks use to protect money) to scramble your files.

Without the "Key" (which only the hacker has), those files are mathematically impossible to open.

How did I get it?

• Phishing Emails: You clicked a fake "Invoice" attachment.
• Infected Software: You downloaded a "cracked" version of a game or expensive software.
• Outdated Windows: You ignored that "System Update" notification for 6 months, leaving a security hole open.

How to Protect Yourself (Before it happens)

Once your files are locked, it is often too late. Prevention is your only real defense.

1. The 3-2-1 Backup Rule

This is the ultimate safety net. If you have backups, ransomware has no power over you.

• 3 copies of your data.
• 2 different types of storage (e.g., your laptop hard drive + a USB drive).
• 1 copy offsite (e.g., Cloud Backup like Google Drive or Norton Cloud).

2. Use Antivirus with "Ransomware Rollback"

Modern antivirus software has evolved. Tools like TotalShield and Bitdefender now have a feature called "Remediation."

They monitor your files. If a program starts rapidly encrypting your photos, the antivirus kills the virus and automatically restores the encrypted files from a hidden local backup.

I'm Infected. What do I do?

If you see that red ransom screen, do not panic. Follow these steps immediately:

1. Disconnect Everything: Unplug your Ethernet cable and turn off Wi-Fi immediately. Ransomware tries to spread to other computers on your network.
2. Take a Photo: Take a picture of the ransom note with your phone (for police/insurance reports), but do not interact with the hacker.
3. Try a Decryptor: Visit the website NoMoreRansom.org. Security researchers sometimes find keys for older ransomware versions and release free tools to unlock them.
4. Wipe and Restore: If you have a backup, the best solution is to completely wipe your computer (Factory Reset) and restore your clean files from your backup.

Summary

Ransomware is scary because it attacks your memories and your hard work. But with a simple $50 hard drive for backups and decent security software, you are 99% safe.