Ransomware Is Rampant in 2025: 6 Quick Tips That'll Protect Your Data
1 min read
Summary
Protecting yourself and devices from ransomware is not complicated
Use up-to-date antivirus software as well as online tools like VirusTotal to scan for viruses, paying particular attention to file types that are commonly used to hide them
Create regular backups, but make sure they are disconnected from your devices to prevent ransomware reaching them, and automatic schedules to ensure consistency
Be careful with email attachments and links, always verifying the sender and thinking before you click or download attachments
Use strong authentication for all your accounts, using unique, complex passwords for each one, a password manager, and two-factor authentication, preferably using an authenticator app rather than SMS
Segment your network to limit the spread of attacks, using guest networks and putting certain devices on separate networks to them from being accessed by others, and using VLANs for home networks
Disable unnecessary features and services, such as the Remote Desktop Protocol unless you specifically need it, file and printer sharing if it’s not needed, and features like Windows Script Host, PowerShell remoting and SMBv1, turning them off completely if possible
