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I don’t know the word “quit.” Either I never did, or I have abolished it.
Susan Butcher

IT Security Tip #5: How to Foil Ransomware

Not too long ago, the CryptoLocker ransomware virus was all over the news, infecting over 250,000 computers in its first 100 days of release (at least that’s the number reported – the real numbers are probably MUCH higher). The threat was fairly straightforward: Pay us or we’ll delete all your data. 

Ransomware, like the CryptoLocker attack, works by encrypting your files to prevent you from using or accessing them. After your files are compromised, the hackers behind the attack then pop up a demand screen asking for payment ($400 to $2,000) within a set time frame (e.g., 72 hours or three days) in order to get the key to decrypt your files. The last CryptoLocker virus forced many business owners to lose data or pay up since there was no other way to decrypt the files. 

Obviously, the best way to foil a ransomware attack is to be incredibly diligent about IT security; but with hundreds of thousands of new attacks being created daily, there are no guarantees that you won’t get infected. Therefore, it’s critical to maintain a full, daily backup of your data OFF-SITE so that IF you do get whacked with ransomware, you can recover all your files without having to pay a thin dime; and don’t forget to back up off-site PCs, laptops, remote offices and third-party software data stored in cloud apps as well!

Microsoft Teams: Make Collaborating on Files a Breeze

Add a file to a channel to give access to everyone who needs it.

  1. On the menu at the top of your channel (above the conversations), select Files.
  2. Select New to create a new file, or Upload to upload an existing one.

Now the file is shared with your entire team, and everyone’s edits will show up as they’re made.

Keyboard Keys

Shortcut of the Week

Pressing Ctrl + J opens the download manager window.

Have an unfortunate co-worker that’s not getting a copy of the TCC Tuesday Tidbits? Forward them your copy. Or, better yet, have them sign up at https://computer-center.com/tidbits/ Submit your TCC Tuesday Tidbit requests and ideas to me by calling (608) 755-1524. Sincerely, James Pearson, President The Computer Center 39 S. Main St. – Upper Janesville, WI 53545 (608) 755-1524