Like with Viruses and Malware, Apple Products Are the Best Defense Against Ransomware
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Apple has a tight hold on what apps are allowed on their app store, and the security features of Apple products prevent most of the problems PC users have. However, ransomware is a relatively new problem, where hackers can effectively lockout a device or computer until the victim calls a number and pays to get the computer unlocked.
The good news? Most ransomware isn’t snuck on a computer like malware, computer users have to consciously download it. The bad news is most ransomware pretends to be something legitimate, like with an app that looks like a genuine game. Ransomware cases are common with smartphones, as ransomware has been discovered disguised as a Pokémon Go app on a Windows Phone. iPhone customers don’t have to worry about downloading fake apps thanks to Apple’s strict approval process for apps, and therefore, it’s not likely that hackers and internet criminals could get their counterfeit apps on Apple’s App Store.
Jeff John Roberts from Fortune writes, “Apple software is more difficult to compromise, which makes it less attractive for the ransomware industry.” He claims the criminal software is sold or licensed as tools to small-time criminals. It sounds like a black market kind of industry that is organized and functions similar to a legitimate business. Roberts suggests the prime targets for ransomware is people with older Windows operating systems.
Even though Apple is harder to crack, Roberts thinks cyber criminals may try to compromise the next version of iOS 10. He suggests there are two reasons why ransomware is becoming more popular: “more powerful cryptography that makes it easier to lock a computer, and the rise of bitcoin, which makes it easier to collect an anonymous payment.”
Ransomware as a business? It sounds odd, and is certainly illegal. The best way to protect oneself from these threats is to use Apple devices and computers or at the very least make sure apps and other software is downloaded from legitimate websites. Also avoid those spoof e-mails and don’t click links to sites that seem fishy. And if you do find your electronics hijacked, never pay the ransom, as the criminals will usually come back for more.
Have you seen a real-life example of ransomware? What did you do to remedy the issue?
Let us know in the comments below.
