1. Keep Software Up-to-Date

Security software and anti-viruses should be updated frequently to detect and handle viruses like ransomware. Keeping your security software up-to-date can catch ransomware before it's installed or downloaded. If the ransomware is already on your system, quarantine and remove it.

2. Be Aware of Phishing Schemes

Phishing schemes use illegitimate emails designed to look like they're from trustworthy sources. These emails seek out personal information, but they also try to steer you into downloading viruses or ransomware.

Some tell-tale signs of a phishing scheme include:

• A fake invoice
• A government rebate
• A coupon for free stuff
• A link to make a payment
• A warning on suspicious activity

3. Don't Download Iffy Attachment

Even if the source seems trustworthy, downloading attachments and files from emails can be harmful.

Modern email services, like Gmail and Outlook, have security features that block the download of suspicious files or attachments. Most browsers will also tell you if an attachment or file is malicious.

Take these warnings seriously and carefully investigate any website you download from. If possible, make sure you download from official websites or trustworthy sources.

4. Back-Up Important Files

Backing up your files won't save you from ransomware. However, it'll take some of the pressure off if you do fall victim to an attack. If a virus locks down your files and you have a back-up — papers, projects or anything you don't want to lose — you'll have more time to develop a game plan.

Ransomware can also be destructive, deleting or corrupting encrypted files after you remove the virus. A full back-up can ensure none of your data is lost.

5. Scan Your Computer for Viruses 

Take advantage of the security tech installed on your computer. Running regular virus scans and security checks ensures no ransomware — or any other malware — is lurking on your system.

6. Create System Restore Points

Once you remove malware from your computer, there may be lingering effects in the form of deleted or corrupted files.

In some situations, it's possible to recover files by returning to a system restore point or iCloud. You'll need to set up this recovery point or backup in advance.

7. Don't Pay the Ransom

Is your system infected with ransomware? If so, never pay the fee. First, it likely won't work. Many viruses won't release your files, even when you pay. In some cases, when you pay the ransom, the virus will demand a higher fee. The average ransomware payment was $36,295 — a costly mistake, especially if you don't get your files back.

Second, paying the ransom will encourage hackers to use ransomware more often. Most government security organizations — like the FBI and Europol — urge businesses and individuals not to pay the fees.

8. Keep an Eye on the News

In some modern outbreaks, there's no way to stop the digital infection — not yet. In most cases, however, viruses aren't impossible to remove, just tricky.

Usually, if a ransomware virus is widespread, you won't have to wait long until researchers crack the code. For example, it took one security expert a mere four days to find the kill switch on the WannaCry ransomware, a virus that wreaked havoc on companies like FedEx and Telefónica. The expert, a 22-year-old from England, claims the creator hardcoded the kill switch directly into the malware in the event he wanted it to stop spreading.

Stay up-to-date on cybersecurity news to ensure you know about recent ransomware and malware outbreaks. Learn how to stay protected.