Ransomware is a type of malware that blocks access to files or encrypts files until victims pay cybercriminals a steep ransom. If the victim doesn’t pay, the criminals could leak data or continue to block file access. It’s a nightmare for businesses, who, according to CrowdStrike’s Global Security Attitude Survey, may receive demands of up to $6 million USD to regain their digital property.

How can you stay safe from malicious code that hides itself until the damage is already done?

You can protect your sensitive data from attacks through early ransomware detection and a quick, effective response plan.

Ransomware Detection Definition

Ransomware detection is the first defense against dangerous malware. Ransomware stays hidden in an infected computer until files are blocked or encrypted. Victims often can’t detect the malware until they receive the ransom demand. Ransomware detection finds the infection earlier so that victims can take action to prevent irreversible damage.

How It Works

In a ransomware attack, reaction time matters. Ransomware detection works by identifying unusual activity and automatically alerting users. When users receive an alert, they can stop the spread of the virus immediately, before valuable or sensitive files can be encrypted. All they have to do is isolate the computer from the network, remove the ransomware and then restore the computer from a safe backup.

You won’t have to wait for an unreliable decryption key to recover your system; with swift action and a healthy backup schedule, your files may never be lost.

Examples of Ransomware Detection

Many cybersecurity systems prevent ransomware infections by monitoring running systems for unusual files or activity.

Another type of ransomware detection functions as much more than a surveillance camera. For example, threat detection services may use teams of cybersecurity experts who manage active threat hunting. These analysts will continuously search a network for unusual or malicious actions automated systems may not detect.