How to protect your PC from CryptoLocker and ransomware attacks

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The CryptoLocker malware is both a Trojan and ransomware. It first enters your system disguised as a legitimate file, then opens the door for the ransomware that locks down important documents and programs until you pay a fee. Installing Kaspersky Total Security is a good way to protect your PC from this and many other threats. Here are some of the tools specifically designed to protect against ransomware, including CryptoLocker, and how to enable them within Kaspersky Total Security.

Products used in this guide

How to enable Kaspersky browser extensions

Most malware is either sent as an attachment to email messages or disguised as a legitimate file, like a video player, on a website that looks legitimate. Kaspersky’s browser extension recognizes the majority of infected files and stops the download process before the threat has a chance to escape. It also blocks websites that are known to harbor malware files or are phishing schemes and marks safe websites in listed search results.

Here’s how to enable Kaspersky safe browsing extensions.

Once activated, Kaspersky’s browser extension will block phishing schemes and websites known to harbor malicious downloads, stop malware files from downloading to your computer and mark search results as safe to click on or not.

How to use Kaspersky’s vulnerability scanner

Vulnerability scanners helps identify and stop weak points in your computer, including corrupted drivers and outdated software. These are the easiest places for malware, including ransomware, to break into your network and attack your files. Here’s how to find and use Kaspersky’s vulnerability scanner.

How to use Kaspersky to create and save backup files

Kaspersky Total Security helps create backup files. If your computer is ever infected with malware, including ransomware, you can scrub and reset your system, but restore your computer by tapping into the backup files. Kaspersky doesn’t have an online storage facility itself, but it will automatically create and store backup files to any online storage site, such as Dropbox. You do need to create an online storage account first.

Here’s how to create backup files.

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If you don’t have an online storage account, you can back up your files and store them locally on your desktop. You then can encrypt the files and store them in a secured vault that is only accessible with a passcode.

How to encrypt and secure files using Kaspersky

For important files, you can encrypt them and save them in a Kaspersky vault that can only be accessed with a password you set up. If your computer is infected with ransomware, including CrytoLocker, you can remove the threat and still access those files within the vault. It is secure enough that ransomware cannot penetrate it, and if it were to gain access, it wouldn’t recognize your files because of the encryption.

Here’s how to set up your Kaspersky vault.

My recommendation for ransomware protection

There are proactive steps you can take to help reduce the risk of becoming infected with malware, including being cautious of email attachments and downloadable files. The best protection is installing a reputable antivirus program that scores high for threat blocking and includes additional security tools. I recommend Kaspersky Total Protection because it has everything you need, plus excellent overall protection from other malware threats. Though Kaspersky Internet Security has a good level of protection, too, some of the tools, such as encryption and backup abilities, aren’t included.

The top security choice

This is the most comprehensive protection program offered by Kaspersky. It includes parental controls and safe money features and is excellent at protecting against ransomware.

Another option

Internet Security is better than basic antivirus but lacks tools included with Total Security. It does have password managers and webcam monitoring.

Nikki is a commissioned editor for Future Plc covering internet security including antivirus and VPN. With over 18 years of research and writing experience, and 11 years of testing and reviewing internet security solutions, Nikki knows how to dive deep to get the information consumers need to make better buying decisions. She is also a mom to 10 children, and personally uses many of the products she reviews to ensure the safety of her own family.