If you discover you’re a victim of ransomware, the first thing you’ll want to do is get it removed from your computer. Regardless of the type of computer you have, effective ransomware removal is important, but fortunately, removal is a lot easier than most people realize. In fact, as long as you keep a few tips in mind, you should be able to take care of the problem quickly.
Below are four things to keep in mind when your goal is to remove ransomware.
1. Know the Signs of Ransomware
Ransomware can look like regular activity or email. The sender can send a pop-up message saying that you have files that need to be “cleaned up,” and claiming that they can do this for you if you send them money. Or, they can pretend to be a company that claims to see a “virus” on your computer and are offering to get rid of it.
Worst of all, these emails and pop-ups look legitimate, so it’s easy to fall for them regardless of how tech-savvy you are. Just be careful with these types of messages.
2. Look Into Various Decryption Tools
Certain decryption tools are now available that allow you to get rid of ransomware without paying for the decryption of your files. Ransomware removal is much easier thanks to these tools, and you can start by going to websites such as NoMoreRansom.org and uploading the sender’s information. After you do this, the website will tell you exactly what to do next to get your files back.
Unfortunately, because ransomware providers are now so advanced, these websites may not work. There are others, however, that you can utilize, and a quick Internet search should help you get started immediately.
3. Make Sure You Restore Your Backups
This is the first thing you should do when being threatened by ransomware. Before you do this, you should copy the data onto a storage disk and make sure it isn’t being affected by encrypted files. Check for any viruses as well, and once you determine that your backup files are safe, go ahead and load them onto your computer.
If your files are backed up regularly, as they should be, there is no reason why this won’t work. Even if your files are old, however, it is still better than having files that you can’t open.
4. Try to Negotiate with Them
Some people try to negotiate with the ransomware sender and offer to pay a smaller amount to get their files back. Although this is not recommended, you can still do it if you like. Remember, these people want money more than anything else. They don’t care about your files. In some instances, they will take your money and restore your files even if the money you send them is less than what they requested.
