Protect yourself against ransomware

The latest trend in computer viruses is ransomware. Ransomware is fraudulent activity that attempts to take over your computer and blackmail you for cash to release it. All of the virus protection software is reporting an increase in the number of attacks. Here are some things to help keep your computers from falling prey to these criminals:

1. Keep your virus protection software updated. If you don’t use virus protection on your computers, you should start.
   • If you can configure your email server, block attachments with the following extensions: .exe, .vbs, .scr.  If you need to get files with these extensions from a reputable source, ask the sender to zip the files first.
2. Back up your most important files regularly. 
   • Keep copies of your backups somewhere other than on your computer.
3. Be suspicious of all emails that have attachments. 
   • Phishing attempts are emails the pretend to be notifications from delivery services, financial institutions, law enforcement, major retailers offering big dollar savings, and even the IRS. Don’t open attachments unless you were expecting to receive them.
   • Do not enable macros or content when opening files unless you know the source and reason for them.
4. Train yourself to think twice before clicking on a link sent to you in email, text, or on social networks.
   • These links can even come from people you know who have had their accounts hacked or emails stolen. Hover your mouse over the link to see if it looks suspicious.
5. Keep your operating system and browsers up to date.
6. Use a good pop up blocker and only let through trusted sources.
   • ELGA’s XpressLink needs you to allow pop ups for www.elgacu.com. We will never send you messages this way, but it is required to see the login box.
7.  Make sure that you share these tips with everyone that uses your computer.