What is ransomware and how do you protect yourself?

Ransomware is malicious software that locks your files and demands money to unlock them. It spreads through phishing emails, fake downloads, and suspicious links. You stop it by never opening attachments from people you don't know, not clicking links from unexpected emails, and keeping automatic backups of your important files.

Ransomware is software that a criminal installs on your computer to lock your files and demand money — hence the name 'ransom'. Once inside, it encrypts everything and shows a message saying you need to pay to get access back. It spreads mainly through phishing emails that look real, attachments from people you don't know, and links you click by accident. The best defence is not letting it in at all by being careful what you click, and having backups so you're never forced to pay.