WAYS TO STAY SAFE FROM WANNACRY COMPUTER VIRUS

In recent days, the “WannaCry” ransomware has been causing chaos worldwide for individuals, businesses and public bodies. The virus encrypts data on infected computers then asks users to pay a “ransom” in order to receive a code that unencrypts the data.

Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) Director General Engineer James Kilaba said in a statement in Dar es Salaam over the weekend that the Ransomware is a malicious software family that infects and prevents users from accessing their files or systems.

“It either prevents users by locking the system’s screen or by encrypting the user’s files. Successful hackers termed Ransom demand certain amount of money to realize infected files from your computer,” the statement said.

However, Engineer Kilaba pointed out that after the ransom demand, the payment does not guarantee access to the infected files, advising the hacked computer users and organisations against paying the ransom.

He explained that the WannaCry Ransomware is infecting Windows based computers that have outdated and unpatched software specifically those with Microsoft Server Message Block 1.0 (SMBv1) vulnerability. However, this kind of infection can be avoided in most cases by following a few simple steps.

1. Always keep your antivirus software and operating system up to date. Microsoft immediately reacted by releasing a security patch for users to download;

2. Never open email attachments from unknown contacts, no matter what the file type;

3. Never click on links sent by email from unknown contacts;

4. Delete and mark as spam any emails you receive from unknown senders;

5. Don’t browse or click on links featured on websites that aren’t approved by your internet browser;

6. Never hook up unknown external storage devices (hard drive, USB stick, CD, etc.) to your computer;

7. Regularly backup files to an external hard drive that is then disconnected from your computer;

8. If your PC does get infected, never pay the “ransom” — there’s no guarantee that your files will be recovered.