Removing ransomware isn't as simple as dropping it into your computer's trash. Ransomware attacks are brutal. Cybercriminals use it to dig their claws deep into your system. Fortunately, ridding your system of ransomware isn't impossible. Here's how you can get the upper hand.

• Isolate infected devices. Any device infected by malware should be disconnected from the internet ASAP. This prevents the malware from spreading. Think of it as a salmonella outbreak. To stop the bacteria from spreading, anything contaminated needs to be recalled. 

• Boot the device into safe mode. This prevents the malware from launching when you start your computer, giving you a better shot at removing it.

• Use ransomware removal tools. Sometimes, your best friend is software. Reliable ransomware removal tools provide an extra layer of security by automatically scanning and deleting ransomware. (We'll dig more into this later). 

• Segment sensitive data. Limit access to sensitive data so that attackers find it harder to gain access.

• Back up your data! Organizations that diligently back up their data can recover from a ransomware attack much faster than those who do not, as they can wipe their systems clean without losing a single file. 

• Seek out a cyber security partner. Call a professional if a ransomware attack is severe. An experienced incident response team can help recover your data and strengthen your security posture.

Not sure if you've been hit? Here are a few tell-tale signs:

• Ransom Note: The most obvious sign is a message on your screen demanding payment in exchange for your files. This note might pop up as a text file on your desktop or as your new desktop background.

• Encrypted Files: You can't open your files, and their names or extensions have been changed to something random (e.g., .locked, .crypted, .LOL).

• System Lockout: You're completely locked out of your computer or network.

• Sluggish Performance: Your system is running unusually slow as the ransomware works in the background to encrypt files.

• Disabled Security Software: You might find that your antivirus or other security tools have been mysteriously disabled.

Well, it depends on the strain of ransomware. 

Many ransomware strains are like digital termites, and getting rid of them is annoying but manageable. Other strains, however, are more aggressive, like hornets. These digital hornets set up nests throughout your network and attack at every turn. 

Early detection makes removal much easier, regardless of the strain of the ransomware. There are sophisticated variants like double extortion attacks that make ransomware recovery a nightmare, but in general, if you have the proper security tools and cybersecurity experts at the helm of your cybersecurity strategy, your chances of defending against ransomware increase significantly. 

The bottom line? Prevention always beats remediation. Backup your data regularly, leverage strong endpoint protection, and have your workforce go through security awareness training. Preventative actions can help stop ransomware before it has an opportunity to invade your network. 

Like most things, there isn't a magic bullet for ransomware removal. The best solution would be prevention.  That said, there are some options in terms of tools that we can leverage to punch back at ransomware.

• Microsoft Defender can be used as more of a preventative tool. It features real-time protection, cloud-based threat detection, and behavioral analysis to identify and block malicious activity before it can encrypt files.

• No More Ransom Project offers decryption tools, depending on the ransomware variant. 

• Huntress Ransomware Canaries are designed to detect ransomware activity on endpoints. Our platform uses "canary" files to assist in the detection and alerting of ransomware incidents. If a canary file is modified, our 24/7 Security Operations Center (SOC) team is alerted to investigate, allowing for faster response and ideally better containment of an incident.

While all of these options are good choices for removal, if ransomware has encrypted files, the removal itself won't undo the damage. A proactive security posture is key. 

If a known decryptor exists for the strain of ransomware that attacked you, then yes. There is a solid chance you can undo the damage. If not, your options can be limited to merely restoring from a backup or consulting security experts for ransomware recovery assistance. 

To better bounce back from a ransomware attack, here's what you should do: 

• Don't pay the ransom. Never negotiate with cybercriminals. They can't be trusted, and there's no guarantee they will return your files. Plus, by paying them, you're funding more cybercrime. 

• Keep multiple backups. Because you're a pro who's already backing up your data, take it a step further and follow the 3, 2, 1 rule: three copies of every file, two different storage types, and one offsite location. 

• Leverage endpoint detection and response (EDR). EDR can catch ransomware before it does any damage—Huntress' Managed EDR offering can take this to the next level. 

Ransomware actors are relentless. That said, you don't have to fall prey to them. With the right multi-layered cyber security strategy, you can stay vigilant, protected, and most importantly, one step ahead. 

Huntress is ready to help you understand and avoid ransomware. Learn more here.