In recognition of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is reissuing a consumer alert on computer ransomware. Ransomware is a form of malware that threatens the security of electronic devices once it gains access to them. It then encrypts and disables the entire operating system or individual files, locking a user out of their systems and preventing access to their information.
“Ransomware can devastate residents and businesses by locking them out of their devices and demanding payment for access,” Nessel said. “By understanding how this malware works and taking proactive steps, Michiganders can better protect their data from cyberattacks.”
One of the most common paths to a ransomware infection is downloading malware by opening an attachment or clicking on a link in an unsolicited email. These emails trick users by pretending to be from a source they trust, which is also known as phishing.
There are a number of actions residents can take to protect against ransomware:
• Make sure all your devices are protected with comprehensive security software and keep all software up to date.
• Update software often, as patches for flaws are typically included in each update.
• Be cautious with messages and downloads. Don’t respond to emails or text messages from unknown senders and only download applications from trusted sources. Even if a message appears to
come from someone you know, take a moment to verify it – especially if the message seems unusual, overly generic, or out of character. When in doubt, confirm directly with the sender before clicking any links or opening attachments.
• Never click on links or open attachments in unsolicited emails.
• Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks, since many of them are not secure, and cybercriminals can snoop on your internet usage.
• Back up your data onto an external hard drive or cloud regularly.
• Remember to unplug any external devices when not in use as some malware can also infect devices attached to your computer.
• Never use USB sticks from unknown sources.
Visit the Stop Ransomware webpage for additional guidance regarding ransomware at www.cisa.gov/stopransomware.
To file a complaint with the attorney general, or get additional information, contact:
Consumer Protection Team
P.O. Box 30213
Lansing, MI 48909
517-335-7599
Fax: 517-241-3771
Toll-free: 877-765-8388
Online complaint form at https://secure.ag.state.mi.us/complaints/consumer.aspx.
“Ransomware can devastate residents and businesses by locking them out of their devices and demanding payment for access,” Nessel said. “By understanding how this malware works and taking proactive steps, Michiganders can better protect their data from cyberattacks.”
One of the most common paths to a ransomware infection is downloading malware by opening an attachment or clicking on a link in an unsolicited email. These emails trick users by pretending to be from a source they trust, which is also known as phishing.
There are a number of actions residents can take to protect against ransomware:
• Make sure all your devices are protected with comprehensive security software and keep all software up to date.
• Update software often, as patches for flaws are typically included in each update.
• Be cautious with messages and downloads. Don’t respond to emails or text messages from unknown senders and only download applications from trusted sources. Even if a message appears to
come from someone you know, take a moment to verify it – especially if the message seems unusual, overly generic, or out of character. When in doubt, confirm directly with the sender before clicking any links or opening attachments.
• Never click on links or open attachments in unsolicited emails.
• Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks, since many of them are not secure, and cybercriminals can snoop on your internet usage.
• Back up your data onto an external hard drive or cloud regularly.
• Remember to unplug any external devices when not in use as some malware can also infect devices attached to your computer.
• Never use USB sticks from unknown sources.
Visit the Stop Ransomware webpage for additional guidance regarding ransomware at www.cisa.gov/stopransomware.
To file a complaint with the attorney general, or get additional information, contact:
Consumer Protection Team
P.O. Box 30213
Lansing, MI 48909
517-335-7599
Fax: 517-241-3771
Toll-free: 877-765-8388
Online complaint form at https://secure.ag.state.mi.us/complaints/consumer.aspx.
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