The WannaCry ransomware has been creating havoc in systems worldwide for some time now. The threat continues to loom large even after all the efforts from experts to reverse the trend. That said, it is not all lost as yet as there sure are ways the threat can be negated effectively. WannaCry ransomware is the largest attack in the history to spread at such a faster pace. According to the latest report from Forbes, it has some connections from North Korea. Here is how to protect yourself from WannaCry ransomware.
Update your copy of Windows
The first step for you and also the simplest at that will be to ensure your system is running the most up-to-date version of Windows you have on your system. In fact, the patch to cover the loophole that the WannaCry ransomware exploits was issued back in the march itself. So if you have automatic update on, you should already have the said patch installed.
Only older Windows version vulnerable
It is also worth noting that the ransomware is able to attack only Windows systems and that too, older versions of the OS. So if you have Windows versions like Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows Server 2003 and so on, you should be extra cautious against the malware.
In fact, a recent survey has found that the vast majority of systems affected happen to be Windows 7. This, when it was Windows XP that many thought would be the worst affected. So if you are running any of the above mentioned Windows iterations and have not update your system, you have valid reasons to be worried.
Windows 10, Windows 8.1, Windows Server 2008/R2, Windows Server 2012/R2, Windows Server 2016 is complete safe from this particular strain of ransomware.
Install ransomware blocker
Another step that can go a long way in preventing such malware attacks is to have an effective anti-ransomware blocker installed. Or if you already have one installed, make sure it too is updated or is able to tackle the present threat.
Beware of suspicious emails
The general rule of keeping a watch on suspected emails is applicable here as well. So any email from unknown sources or from those you don’t trust, hold back the urge to click on any links or download any attachment, notwithstanding how genuine those might look.
Have your files backed up
This again isn’t anything new and the virtues of the same are equally applicable at a time when the world is bracing for the onslaught of the WannaCry ransomware. So in the unfortunate scenario of your system is locked up, you can always set things up afresh using backed up files.
To know more about WannaCry ransomware, you should check the Wikipedia page. More tips by Symantec official blog.
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