How to tell if your PC is at risk from WannaCry ransomware and what you should do if it is already infected

Over the weekend, hundreds of thousands of people were affected by the huge cyber attack known as WannaCry. After 24 hours this virus was temporarily halted but many people are still wondering if they are at risk.

This powerful piece of software is called Ransomware. It works like a worm by scanning any device linked to the system with the same defect and latching on through a vulnerability in Microsoft systems. It locks the most commonly used files on your computer and requests a payment to unlock them.

Microsoft responded shortly after by sending out a fix for the security flaw but experts say there is more to come.

How do I know if I am at risk?

WannaCry ransomware can infect any system using the Windows operating system. This flaw in the operating system was exploited by the NSA and then leaked, leaving hackers the ability to take advantage of it.

If you use Windows operating system, you or your organization could be at risk.

What should I do to protect myself?

Security Specialists have made guidelines on what to do now:

Small businesses and personal PC’s should:

• Run Windows Update to get the latest software updates.
• Update anti-virus software on your PC and scan for any hazardous programs.
• Set up regular auto-scans.
• Back up important files on your computer.                                                                               

Large organizations should:

• Apply the latest Microsoft security patches for this problem.
• Back up important files and data.
• Check to see all outgoing and incoming emails are scanned for dangerous attachments.
• Update anti-virus programs and conduct regular scans.
• Teach employees how to identify scams, malicious links and emails that could contain viruses.
• Run “penetration tests” against your network’s security, at least once a year, according to the Department of Homeland Security.

I’m already infected, what do I do now?

• Do not pay the ransom. There is no evidence of getting files back after making the payment.
• Contact local IT support if you don’t know what to do.
• Contact law enforcement if you are a business.
• Restore backups of data.

How can this be prevented?

Some steps to protect against ransomware are:

• Make sure anti-virus programs are up to date and update all software.
• Back up copies of data.
• Only download from trusted sources.

Being proactive is critical to avoid being a victim of ransomware. Make sure to update your operating systems and their anti-virus software.