Given the latest ransomware storms on the web, it might be good to make sure we all understand the term and how it works. So what is ransomware and how did I get it?
Wikpedia’s definition of ransomware is:
Ransomware is a type of malicious software that blocks access to data or threatens to publish it until a ransom is paid. Simple ransomware may lock the system in a way which is not difficult for a knowledgeable person to reverse.
How does ransomware get on my computer?
Ransomware can appear on your computer via phishing or spam emails containing attachments. These attachments or links in the content are where the ransomware lives. When the attachment is clicked, your computer is at risk of becoming infected with ransomware. Ransomware can also infect your computer through compromised websites. You can unknowingly visit an infected website (malicious or legitimate) and it will download malware to your computer without your knowledge. This is why having good anti-virus tools is so important, but even they cannot stop all of the malware out there.
What happens when ransomware is downloaded to my computer?
If the download succeeds, the ransomware will then have the ability to encrypt files on your computer, effectively locking your system. As an added insult, a message may appear on your computer instructing you how to “regain access” to your computer. A ransomware attack message may look like:
“Your computer has been infected with a virus. Click here to resolve the issue. Your computer was used to visit websites with illegal content. To unlock your computer, you must pay a 1 Bitcoin fine. All files on your computer have been encrypted. Unless you pay this ransom within 72 hours to regain access to your data, your files will be removed.”
Please note that paying the “ransom” to get your data back does not guarantee that the files will be decrypted. Even if the data appears to be decrypted after payment is made, it does not mean that malware infection has been removed. There is no honour among thieves; assume your system and all systems on your network are now infected.
How do I remove ransomware off my computer?
There are software tools available (e.g. Norton Power Eraser and Norton Bootable Recovery Tool, Malwarebytes) that can remove many threats. Some of the more sophisticated threats may be much harder to resolve.
If your files are encrypted, a tool may be available to decrypt them, depending on the version of the ransomware infection. Always check public boards like Reddit to see if there is a solution published for your specific malware.
Always ensure you have clean backups (offline) of your data, so that if you are infected with Ransomware, you can recover without too much hassle. I hope this helps clarify what ransomware is.
What is Ransomware Updated
- In 2025, ransomware attacks are more complex (e.g. double extortion, exfiltration threats). With AI involved, it is now a much nastier game.
- Antivirus tools are not a catch-all; realistically, many attacks now bypass AV software.
- I didn’t cover costs (financial, reputational) or show recent attack stories (e.g. in Canada) to make it more urgent. You can find plenty of that, or not, as many companies don’t advertise when they have been caught!
What is Ransomware, some prickly comments
You know what grinds my gears? (to paraphrase Peter Griffin) It’s when people shrug off ransomware like “meh, that won’t happen to me.” Buddy, if clicking one weird email will cost you thousands or your job, that’s not “tech paranoia”; that’s paying for ignorance. In 2025, there’s zero excuse for not having a solid backup or at least a halfway decent security setup.
And what about those who “paying the ransom is safe” crowd? Absolute idiots. You wouldn’t call a mugger and expect him to hand over your wallet afterward. The same logic applies. If they wanted to be ethical, they wouldn’t be cybercriminals. The minute you even entertain paying, you’ve signed up for chaos, not recovery.
In Canada Is Their Help?
Start with the Canadian Center for Cybersecurity. They can help, but many folks are afraid or embarrassed to admit they got caught. Embarrassment should be the last thing you are worried about after a Ransomware attack.
FAQ What is Ransomware
What is Ransomware?
Ransomware is a type of malicious software that encrypts files on a victim’s computer or network, making them inaccessible. The attackers then demand a ransom payment in exchange for the decryption key needed to unlock the files.
How do I get ransomware on my computer?
Through phishing or spam emails with malicious attachments or links, or by visiting compromised (or malicious) websites that auto‑install malware.
Does paying the ransom guarantee I’ll get my files back?
No. Even after payment, there’s no guarantee the attackers will decrypt your files and your system may still be compromised. The wallet inspector rarely returns your wallet.
How do I remove ransomware?
Use anti‑malware tools (e.g. Norton Power Eraser, Malwarebytes) or bootable recovery tools. Some ransomware variants may also have public decryptors.
What can I do to prevent data loss if I do get infected?
Maintain clean, offline backups of your data. Regularly update your systems, avoid suspicious links/attachments, and use security tools and firewalls.
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