Secure your personal data
We are all personally, ransomware targets, so we're taking the time to offer some top tips, that each and every one of us can follow to protect our personal data from a ransomware attack.
Imagine turning on your computer to find a startling message: all your files - family photos, tax documents, everything - are locked. You cannot open a single one. To get them back, a stranger on the internet is demanding hundreds of pounds. This isn’t a scene from a movie; it’s a real and increasingly common threat called ransomware.
Think of it as a digital kidnapping of your most important information. This malicious software scrambles your files into unreadable code, and only the criminals hold the unique key to unlock them. They are banking on you feeling helpless enough to pay for the return of your own data.
While that sounds scary, effective ransomware protection doesn't require you to be a tech expert. This guide will empower you with simple, clear habits to prevent ransomware attacks from ever succeeding. You have the power to make your precious files a worthless target for these criminals.
The ultimate safety net: why a good backup is your best defence
If ransomware is like having your files taken hostage, a backup is like knowing where a spare key is hidden. It’s the single best defence because even if a criminal locks your original files, you still have a safe, clean copy. The threat becomes a mere inconvenience rather than a catastrophe, giving you the power to ignore the ransom demand, wipe your computer clean, and restore your precious data without losing a thing.
For true peace of mind, cyber security professionals follow the “3-2-1 rule,” an easy-to-remember strategy for a bulletproof backup plan.
- THREE total copies of your important files. (The original on your computer counts as one.)
- TWO different types of storage. For example, your computer’s internal drive and an external hard drive.
- ONE copy kept off-site. This protects you from physical disasters like fire or theft.
You can easily put this into practice. The “two different types” can be your computer and an external hard drive - a small physical device you plug in to copy files. The “one copy off-site” is perfectly handled by cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive, which act like a secure folder on the internet.
Start today by dragging your most important folder - like “My Photos” or “My Documents” - onto a cloud drive or an external drive. With your safety net in place, the next step is learning how to spot the traps.
How ransomware gets in: spotting the digital "open doors"
With a safety net in place, you can focus on keeping criminals out. Ransomware doesn't just appear out of nowhere; it needs an invitation. It typically gets in through one of two "open doors": you're tricked into letting it in, or it sneaks in through a security hole in your computer's software. You have the power to keep both of these doors locked tight.
The most common trick is an email scam called phishing. Imagine a burglar disguised as a delivery person to get you to open your front door. Phishing works the same way. You might get an urgent email that looks like it's from your bank or a shipping company, warning you about a problem. It’s designed to make you panic and click a malicious link without thinking. That single click can be enough to let the ransomware in.
The other main entry point is out-of-date software. Think of programs like Windows, your web browser, or Adobe Reader as the digital doors and windows to your home. When a company releases a software update, or patch, they are fixing a newly discovered broken lock. Ignoring these updates is like leaving a window unlocked for criminals.
These two weak spots account for the vast majority of infections. Prevention comes down to two simple rules. For emails, adopt the motto: "When in doubt, throw it out." For software, turn on automatic updates whenever possible.
Your everyday defence: three habits that lock ransomware out
A strong defence is built on a few key tools and habits that work for you around the clock, adding an alarm system and better locks to your digital doors.
First, make sure you have good antivirus software running. This isn't just for old-school computer viruses; modern security programs act as a 24/7 guard, specifically trained to recognise and block ransomware before it can scramble your files. Many operating systems like Windows have a capable one built-in, but it’s crucial to ensure it’s turned on and always updating.
Next, enable one of the single most powerful defences: Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). It’s simple: besides your password, you need a second piece of proof (like a one-time code sent to your phone) to log in. This means even if a criminal steals your password, they can't get into your accounts. Go into your main email and banking account settings and turn this on today.
These layers - being cautious, updating software, running antivirus, and using MFA - create a formidable shield against attacks.
What to do if attacked: your 3-step emergency plan
If you see a ransom message, your first move is critical: immediately disconnect your computer from the internet. Unplug the network cable or turn off your WiFi. This is like slamming a door shut on a fire; it stops the attack from spreading to other devices in your home or corrupting your online accounts.
While the demand for money feels urgent, cyber security experts agree that you should never pay. There is no guarantee criminals will return your files, and every payment encourages them to attack someone else. Paying the ransom is a gamble that rewards bad actors.
This is where your backup becomes your ultimate safety net. The only sure way to recover is to have the infected computer completely wiped clean - you may need a professional for this - and then restore your files from that safe, separate backup copy. It’s the one action that puts you, not the criminals, back in control.
Where ransomware once felt like an unstoppable force, you are now equipped with the knowledge to keep your digital life safe. Protecting your memories isn’t about being a tech expert - it’s about consistent habits. Use this simple checklist for immediate peace of mind:
Your Ransomware Protection Checklist:
- Back It Up: Automate backups to an external drive and the cloud.
- Be Sceptical: Treat unsolicited emails and links with suspicion.
- Lock It Down: Use antivirus software and enable MFA on key accounts.
Most organisations take broader steps to protect against ransomware. For more information, please visit:
