To: All Users

Ransomware attacks are one of the most common types of cyber attacks in recent years. Attackers use various network intrusion techniques or methods such as impersonation and fraud to deploy ransomware programs to organizations and users, encrypt the data on the infected computer system, so that the affected systems will not be able to operate normally, and extort money and other economic benefits from the victims. At the same time, some attackers also steal data during the process and threaten victims with disclosure of confidential data to increase the likelihood of the victims compromising.

The following security measures can prevent ransomware attacks:

1. Beware of phishing and virus emails, do not casually open attachments or web links:
   Attackers will send phishing emails with malicious program attachments or web links. Once you open, your computer system will be infected;

2. Beware of social engineering, do not trust strangers or people with unverified identities:
   They will impersonate government officials, customer service, bank staff, etc., and induce you to download or install unknown software, or even assist them in carrying out ransomware attacks;

3. Install antivirus software, turn on real-time protection and monitoring functions:
   Whether the ransomware program is spread via portable data storage devices (such as USB, mobile hard drives, etc.) or emails, the real-time protection function of antivirus software can effectively intercept the ransomware program when it is installed or executed;

4. Regularly update software, keep antivirus software up to date:
   This can prevent attackers from exploiting existing software vulnerabilities for attacks. At the same time, the latest antivirus software feature database can  detect effectively and intercept suspicious software programs;

5. Protect your user password, activate multi-factor authentication services and use strong passwords:
   They will use leaked accounts or brute force cracking techniques to remotely log into your computer system and install ransomware programs;

6. Regularly backup data to ensure that files can be restored from backups:
   Even if data is encrypted, it can be restored from backups, which will reduce the chance of data loss.

Reference

• How to download and install software in a secure manner?
• Are you ready to prevent Ransomware?
• Beware of Spear Phishing
  

Should you have any enquiries, please feel free to contact ICTO Help Desk.

ICTO Help Desk
Location : Room 2085, 2/F, Central Teaching Building (E5), eMap
Telephone : 8822 8600
email : icto.helpdesk@um.edu.mo

Information and Communication Technology Office