LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and it serves as a good reminder for Michiganders to update their computer devices and avoid attacks.
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel said criminals infect devices with software that locks people out of their systems or files and demands payments to release them. This is known as “ransomeware.”
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Nessel says these attacks can be devastating, but there are ways to avoid being a target. She suggests:
- Updating security software
- Remaining suspicious of links or attachments in unsolicited messages
- Avoiding the use of insecure wifi and plugging in unknown USB sources
- Backing up vital data to multiple devices
“Ransomware can devastate residents and businesses by locking them out of their devices and demanding payment for access,” Nessel said. “By understanding how this malware works and taking proactive steps, Michiganders can better protect their data from cyberattacks.”
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