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The world witnessed the biggest cyber attack in the history when a cryptic malware, WannaCry ransomware hit Windows based computers and laptops. The cryptic malware which is also known as WannaCrypt has already affected more the 150 countries and gained access to at least 1,00,000 computers. The malware asks the users to make payments through bitcoins to get back access to their devices and has made it extremely important to learn about the steps that will help protect the Windows backed laptops and PCs. The malware has been exploiting the vulnerabilities of Microsoft computer operating systems, especially Windows XP. ATMs in India remain shut due to Wannacry Ransomware attack? Open ATMs only after software update, suggests RBI
WannaCry ransomware takes complete control of the computers that it affects and the hackers ask for payments to be made via bitcoins. These ransom requests range from 19,000 to 38,000 in Indian rupees and are widely affecting countries like the United States, Russia, Ukraine, etc. While the Indian market has been comparatively safer, the malware has found its way into the system affect 120 government computers in Gujarat. The Indian government has already issued guides on how to protect the laptops and computers from the WannaCry Malware. Here is your guide on what is Ransomware WannaCry, Bitcoins and how to protect your Windows laptops and PCs from it.
WannaCry is a type of malware that is affecting the Windows based computer systems all over the world. WannaCry ransomware has been labelled as one of the largest cyber attacks that has raised questions about the security system online and made people extremely aware of how easy it is to breach the encryptions and take control. The ransomware is allowing hackers to take complete access of the device and block the user out. The hackers gain complete access to all the data saved on the device. Hackers are taking complete control of the devices remotely and demanding a ransom to decrypt the encrypted data and return the access.
Bitcoins are cryptocurrency that is used largely in online transactions. The digital payment system widely uses bitcoins, and it is one of the safest ways to access money which cannot be tracked and does not leave a paper trail. Bitcoins are internationally accepted making the entire system of currency exchange unnecessary and are one of the main reasons why the hackers are choosing bitcoins over other forms of transactions. The value of bitcoins are based of an algorithm, and this mode of payment is being used widely in the world of cyber crimes.
WannaCry ransomware has managed to shake the system all over the world. However, the exact masterminds behind this attack are yet to be found. It has been widely accepted that the malware was accessed from America’s National Security Agency (NSA), WannaCry ransomware is believed to be the ‘Eternal Blue Hacking Weapon’ which was used by the US National Security Agency to infiltrate and gain access to Windows run computers and laptops used by terrorist organisations and enemy states.
The Indian government has issued various circulars and step by step guides to protect the Windows based systems. The first step is to be extremely cautious while opening unknown emails and clicking on links online. The basic step to protecting your laptop is to double check the Windows firewall settings and making sure that Windows firewall system is working properly. It has been advised to close the 139, 445, and 3389 parts of firewall system and keep a backup of the entire data that is saved on your Windows device. Microsoft Office files can be protected by enabling the file protection system and installing the Microsoft Security Bulletin MS 17-010.
The WannaCry ransomware has been affecting PCs at an alarming rate since it first affected the American health system of NHS. The malware was stopped by a 22-year-old security analyst Marcus Hutchins. Marcus Hutchins accidentally hit the kill switch of this ransomware and stopped the global attack. However, newer versions of the malware have been affecting various countries, and it is advised to stay cautious and avoid digital transactions for some time. While the RBI had advised banks to block the ATM transaction, cyber security experts feel that it is safe to use ATMs. Use of digital payment structures is being closely monitored and the system is striving to beat this malicious ransomware.
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