Think your small business is safe from malware? Think again.

Ransomware is a type of malware that is secretly installed on a computer without the knowledge of the user. Once the malware is installed, it restricts access to the system and instructs the user to submit payment to regain control of their computer systems and files. Small businesses are susceptible because they often use expired or outdated software or fail to install with internet security software at all.

Despite the public’s unfamiliarity with Ransomware it is not a new type of malware, it’s been around since the 1980s, the earliest instance can be traced back to 1989. There are many types of Ransomware, from the simple to the sophisticated. The simplest form doesn’t use any encryption, simply restricting access by displaying pornographic images and requesting the user remit payment to unlock their machine. The most sophisticated form encrypts files on the system’s hard drive, forcing the user out of their computer system altogether until they remit payment to scammers.

There are numerous ways to protect yourself from these scammers. Install a reputable anti-virus/Internet security software program on your computer, and make sure it’s up to date. Be sure to back up your files to an external drive, this is useful if you do happen to get a virus, you won’t lose all of your photos, music and documents. Make sure to update your operating systems software, as well as commonly used programs such as Adobe Reader.

If your computer does happen to get infected with Ransomware or another virus, think twice before you fork over money to the scammers. If you’re thinking submitting payment solves all your problems, think again. Submitting payment doesn’t guarantee that the system will be unlocked. Giving them what they want, doesn’t mean they’ll unlock your computer. The scammers aren’t out to help you get your files back, they just want your money.