Ransomware is a form of malware that encrypts data on devices, rendering files and the systems where they reside unusable. Cyber criminals then demand ransom in exchange for the decryption key.
One important way to mitigate the damage of ransomware is to back up your data.
World Backup Day is March 31, and our infographic can be shared online and posted in common areas to help remind members of the UW community to keep data, devices, and systems backed up.
- Security research firm Red Canary reports that overall ransomware attacks were less prevalent in 2022, but they were more prevalent in certain sectors, including secondary and post-secondary schools.
- In the past few weeks, the Emotet malware operation, which had briefly reappeared in November 2022, has made another comeback and is using malicious Microsoft OneNote email attachments, often disguised as invoices or legal documents, to deliver ransomware.
Learn more about what to do to secure your data and devices from the threat of ransomware in our Ransomware online training.
Resources
CISA: Stop Ransomware
Red Canary: 2023 Threat Detection Report
Security Boulevard: Emotet and Other Malware Shifting Tactics to OneNote Files