Understanding and Defending Against Ransomware

Ransomware poses a significant threat to computer users today. It is a type of malicious software that encrypts the files on your computer, essentially locking you out of your own data. To regain access, the attackers demand a ransom payment. Think of it as holding your digital files hostage. Unless you meet their demands or find another way to overcome the attack, your data remains inaccessible.

The most effective strategy against ransomware is prevention. This involves avoiding websites and downloads known to be infected. However, even with caution, the risk remains. Therefore, adopting additional protective measures is crucial. Modern antivirus software plays a key role in this defense by restricting which applications can modify files in folders frequently targeted by ransomware.

Microsoft Defender, which comes built-in with Windows, offers similar functionality. (It was formerly known as Windows Defender, but the name was updated several years ago.) Certain antivirus suites also provide automatic backups, which can be invaluable in restoring your files should a ransomware attack succeed.

However, Microsoft Defender’s extra security features aren’t enabled by default, unlike those offered by third-party antivirus programs. You must manually activate them to enjoy the added protection.

How to Enable Ransomware Protection in Microsoft Defender

Here’s how to enable Controlled folder access and Ransomware Data Recovery in Microsoft Defender.

1. Open the Windows Security app on your PC. You can find it by searching for "Windows Security" in the Start menu or by locating its icon in the system tray.

2. Within the Windows Security app, click on "Virus & threat protection."

3. Scroll down to the "Ransomware protection" section and click on "Manage ransomware protection."

4. Toggle the switch to turn on "Controlled folder access." This feature limits which apps can access your default OneDrive, Documents, Pictures, Videos, Music, and Favorites folders.

5. You can also manually add other folders to the list of protected locations by clicking on "Protected folders" and then "+ Add a protected folder."

It is important to note that not all applications will be blocked from accessing these folders. Microsoft Office programs, for example, are automatically trusted and allowed to open and modify files. If an application is not on Microsoft’s internal list of trusted programs, it will be denied access to the protected folders until you grant explicit permission within Windows Security. This helps prevent unauthorized programs, including ransomware, from encrypting your files.

To check that your data is being backed up, review Ransomware protection > Ransomware data recovery.

The Importance of Backups

While restricting file and folder access provides a strong layer of defense, it isn’t a complete solution. A critical component of ransomware protection is having reliable backups of your data. Windows automatically backs up your files to OneDrive if you are logged in with a Microsoft account. You can either link your entire Windows PC to a Microsoft account or just the OneDrive app.

To ensure the highest level of protection against ransomware, it’s crucial to maintain an offline backup of your files in addition to any cloud storage. If you only have one copy of your data, it is not truly backed up. Offline backups provide a safeguard against scenarios where your cloud storage is compromised or inaccessible.

Balancing Security and Convenience

Security and convenience often exist on opposite ends of a spectrum. In the case of Controlled folder access, the feature can effectively keep attackers away from your important folders, but it can also introduce some inconvenience.

For example, gamers may find that their game save files are blocked by default, as these files are often stored in the Documents folder. To address this issue, you can either add the specific game executable to the list of allowed apps in Windows Security, or you can choose to save game files to a different folder that is not under Controlled folder access.

If you choose to save game files to an unprotected folder, you’ll need to use third-party backup software to create a schedule for regular backups of that folder. This ensures that your game progress is protected even if the primary defense measures are bypassed.

Exploring Additional Security Options

For those seeking more comprehensive protection, upgrading to a dedicated antivirus suite can be a worthwhile investment. These suites often offer a wider range of features, including advanced malware detection, real-time protection, and proactive threat prevention.

For example, Norton 360 Deluxe is a highly-rated antivirus suite that combines strong malware protection with a VPN, password manager, dark web monitoring, and more. These extra features can help simplify and strengthen your overall online security.

Additional Resources for Ransomware Protection

To delve deeper into ransomware protection strategies, consider exploring additional resources and guides. The following are particularly useful:

• PCWorld’s guide on how to prevent (or survive) a ransomware attack.
• Microsoft’s documentation on Windows Security features.
• Videos on YouTube covering Windows Security.

By understanding the nature of ransomware, enabling the built-in security features of Windows, maintaining regular backups, and exploring additional security options, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to a ransomware attack and protect your valuable data.