How to protect Windows 10 and 11 PCs from ransomware

Ransomware has increased over the past decade by encrypting files and demanding cryptocurrency payments, and many groups now also steal sensitive data and threaten exposure. Individuals and businesses remain at risk even with general malware precautions like using anti-malware software and avoiding suspicious email links and attachments. Windows 10 and 11 include an anti-ransomware feature called Controlled Folder Access. It helps protect files by allowing only safe, fully vetted applications to access protected folders, limiting the ability of ransomware to encrypt or modify data. The guidance applies to Windows 11 25H2 and Windows 10 22H2, with possible differences on earlier releases.

"Ransomware gained in popularity in large part because of the immediate financial payoff for attackers: It works by encrypting the files on your hard disk, then demanding that you pay a ransom, frequently in Bitcoin or other cryptocurrency, to decrypt them. Now many ransomware gangs are switching tactics, stealthily infiltrating enterprise systems, collecting sensitive corporate data over time, and later threatening to expose that data if the organization doesn't pay up."

"Nevertheless, individuals and businesses are still at risk from traditional ransomware attacks. In this article, I'll show you how to keep yourself safe in Windows 11 - and Windows 10 too, for those who haven't yet moved to Windows 11 - including how to use an anti-ransomware tool built into both versions of Windows."

"This article assumes that you're already taking the basic precautions against malware in general, including running anti-malware software and never downloading attachments or clicking links in email from unknown senders and suspicious-looking email. Also note that this article has been updated for Windows 11 25H2 and Windows 10 22H2. If you have an earlier Windows release, some things may be different."

"Microsoft is concerned enough about ransomware that it built an easy-to-configure anti-ransomware tool directly into Windows 10 and 11. Called controlled folder access, it protects you by letting only safe and fully vetted applications access your files."

Read at Computerworld