Ransomware is a consistent and growing problem for mobile device users, especially owning a device that works on Android operating system. It could be defined as any type of malware which demands a certain amount of money from the infected user in exchange of releasing the hijacked resource. The two general categories of ransomware include lock-screen and crypto-ransomeware.
In lock-screen ransomware, the hijacked resource is access to the compromised system whereas in case of file-encrypting “crypto-ransomware” it is the user’s files. It is a fact that consumers today are switching from PCs to mobile and use mobile applications for their day-to-day activities and obviously they have more valuable data stored on their devices. This has sincerely prompted the attackers to target the Android phones. However, it is one’s care to take precautions and safe measures to prevent malicious attack.
A few of the preventive measures includes:
Beware of the ransomware
Avoid download apps from unofficial App stores
Install mobile security app and update it regularly
Possess a functional backup for all the important data
Managing the infected software:
It is better to boot the device into safe mode when it is simple lock-screen ransomware, so that the third party applications will not get loaded. This way, the user may get rid of or uninstall the malicious application. The booting step varies from device to device and is wise to refer the manual or check Google notes or video to do so.
If the ransomware had locked the device with Android’s built-in PIN, one may reset the lock by using Google’s Android device manager or opt for an alternate MDM solution. As a last resort, factory reset that deletes all the data on the device may be used.
Moving further, if the files on the device are encrypted through the crypto-ransomeware, it is advised to contact the security providers for technical support. However, depending on the ransomware, decrypting the files may be a ‘possible’ or ‘not possible’ thing and paying ransom is a strictly ‘no’.
Paying ransom will not solve the problem as the codes get missed altogether and there is nothing that would stop them to attack again. As always they say “Prevention is better than cure”, it is better to adhere with the security principles. Adaption to the updated security software and data back-up stands as the sensible option always.
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