Happy Ransomware Protection Day

There is a saying that there are people for everything and that every day celebrates something new. Today is no exception, as March 31st is World Backup Day, a day created to encourage everyone to back up their files—at least once a year. Security experts, including Avast Free Antivirus, strongly recommend this practice, and so do we.

Avast Free Antivirus Download

Most of us who use computers daily store critical, essential, and private information on our devices that we cannot afford to lose.

This is precisely where cybercriminals strike, exploiting our fear of losing vital data such as banking information, passwords, medical history, and sensitive professional records.

That is why hackers encrypt our information via ransomware, demanding a ransom to restore access to our files. But they know there are two key defenses against them: antivirus software and backups. Installing a strong antivirus like Avast Free Antivirus is essential, but backing up your data is equally crucial.

What Is Ransomware?

How It Works

Ransomware is a type of malware that blocks access to files and computer systems while demanding a ransom payment in exchange for restoring access.

Ransomware encrypts files, making them unusable and inaccessible to victims.

Who Is at Risk?

Ransomware attacks target all kinds of files, from personal to critical business data. No one is safe—whether individuals or companies.

The term “ransomware” perfectly describes its nature: ransom malware. After an attack, hackers contact victims and demand payment, usually in Bitcoin or another cryptocurrency, promising to unlock the computer or decrypt the files.

Despite increasing awareness of ransomware’s destructive potential, attacks continue to impact individuals, businesses, and governments worldwide.

Reasons to Back Up Your Data at Least Once a Year

Backups are the most effective way to protect yourself from ransomware attacks.

Why Backups Matter

A ransomware attack can destroy the files that matter most to you. The malware doesn’t immediately delete them but encrypts them, locking you out—similar to a sudden hard drive failure.

Since ransomware encrypts rather than deletes files, it forces victims to consider paying the ransom to recover their data.

Why Paying the Ransom Is a Bad Idea

Cybersecurity experts strongly advise against paying the ransom for multiple reasons:

• You may pay and never get your files back.
• Even if you pay, hackers could still leak or sell your stolen data.
• You lose money and your information.

The Importance of a Backup Strategy

This is why backups are essential for ransomware protection. If you have a backup, you don’t need to pay the ransom. Instead, you can wipe your computer, remove the malware, and restore your files from your backup.

Recommended Backup Strategy

Experts recommend keeping two copies of your data:

1. A physical backup, stored separately from your computer—such as an external hard drive or USB drive.
2. A cloud backup, allowing access from anywhere.

Reasons to Have a Good Antivirus Installed

How Antivirus Software Helps

An essential tool in preventing ransomware and malware infections is a good antivirus that blocks cybercriminals before they can strike.

As Avast Free Antivirus explains on its website, the best way to prevent ransomware attacks is to stop malware from accessing your devices in the first place. This means installing a high-quality antivirus that includes powerful ransomware protection.

Avast’s Advanced Ransomware Protection

Avast Free Antivirus offers advanced ransomware protection in both its free and subscription-based antivirus solutions, making it a crucial step in fighting this cyber threat.

• Avast Free Antivirus analyzes suspicious links and attachments, preventing you from clicking on dangerous emails or visiting malicious websites.
• Avast Free Antivirus can quarantine files that bypass initial scans and identify them once they attempt to operate secretly on your computer.

Trusted by Millions

Avast Free Antivirus is one of the most highly-rated free antivirus solutions, trusted by over 400 million users worldwide and developed by privacy and security experts.

Avast Free Antivirus Download

Final Tips for Ransomware Protection

Remember these key practices to stay protected:

• Keep your software updated.
• Browse safely and avoid suspicious links.
• Back up your data frequently—both physically and in the cloud.
• Install antivirus software with ransomware protection, such as Avast Free Antivirus.

By following these cybersecurity habits, you can keep your devices and files safe and enjoy greater peace of mind.And don’t forget—Happy Ransomware Protection Day!