Advice on Ransomware

Computer viruses that threaten to delete your files unless you pay a ransom are known as ransomware

Ransomware attacks are on the increase and users must be vigilant.

You may have heard on the news that organisations around the globe are experiencing a new ransomware pandemic.

The threat usually arrives as an e-mail with attachments and/or links that when opened will encrypt files on your local PC, and in some cases, any network file stores that you have “write” access to.

Take Action

Do not open e-mail attachments or links you were not expecting.

If in doubt, check with the sender first.

The ISD Service Desk may assist in evaluation if you are unsure.

Mitigate Risks

To mitigate the risks of these attacks organisations must:

• Ensure that your systems have the latest security patches (SSE systems receive these updates automatically)
• Ensure all anti-virus and anti-malware updates have been installed (SSE systems receive these updates automatically)
• If you have a system that is not managed by IT ensure these patches are installed or contact the Service Desk to be added to the SSE environment

The Impact

You could lose the data stored on your PC and/or network file stores that you have “write” access to.

Stay Up To Date

ISD will provide additional information on current threats at https://www.ulster.ac.uk/isd/incident-response

Users are encouraged to check this link regularly especially when new threats are reported.