Ransomware is a form of malicious software designed to extort money from individuals and organizations. It works by encrypting files on a victim’s computer and demanding a ransom payment in order to decrypt them. If the ransom is not paid, the files remain locked. Ransomware poses a serious threat, with attacks increasing dramatically in recent years. According to Verizon’s 2023 Data Breach Investigations Report, ransomware was involved in 24% of all data breaches in 2022 (1). With the potential to cripple businesses and cause significant financial damage, effectively protecting against ransomware is crucial.
(1) https://www.techtarget.com/searchsecurity/feature/Ransomware-trends-statistics-and-facts
How Ransomware Infects Your System
Ransomware typically infects systems in a few common ways:
Email attachments are a major vector for ransomware. Attackers send phishing emails with infected attachments that install the ransomware when opened. These attachments often masquerade as invoices, purchase orders, or other files users may be tricked into opening (Berkeley).
Exploit kits are hacking tools that attackers use to target vulnerabilities in applications or operating systems. When a user visits a compromised website, the exploit kit can scan their system for weaknesses and deliver ransomware without any action from the user (GRC Learning).
Drive-by downloads occur when visiting a compromised website causes ransomware to be downloaded and installed without the user’s consent. This takes advantage of browser or plugin vulnerabilities (Berkeley).
Top Antiviruses for Ransomware Protection
When choosing an antivirus for ransomware protection, three top options stand out: Bitdefender, Malwarebytes, and Kaspersky. According to PCMag, Bitdefender Antivirus Plus is one of the top choices for general malware protection. It consistently earns excellent scores from independent testing labs and provides multiple layers of ransomware defense. Malwarebytes also specializes in ransomware prevention with features like real-time scanning. Its anti-ransomware technology stops unknown threats based on behavior. Meanwhile, Kaspersky provides next-gen technologies like System Watcher to automatically reverse malicious actions. These leading antivirus brands offer robust ransomware protection.
Bitdefender
Bitdefender is consistently rated as one of the top antivirus software for ransomware detection and protection. According to AV-Test, Bitdefender has a 100% detection rate against Zero-day ransomware attacks [1]. Key features include:
- Ransomware remediation which automatically restores encrypted files [2].
- Behavior monitoring to detect ransomware activity.
- Anti-ransomware engine blocks known ransomware.
- Immunizer learns behavior of common applications to detect anomalies.
- Anti-exploit protection against vulnerability exploits.
With multiple layers of ransomware defense and the ability to restore files after an attack, Bitdefender offers excellent protection against this threat.
Malwarebytes
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware is a popular security software that provides effective protection against ransomware threats (https://www.malwarebytes.com/solutions/ransomware-protection). It uses proprietary anti-ransomware technology to detect and block ransomware from infecting systems.
Key features of Malwarebytes for ransomware protection include:
- Multi-vector protection that prevents ransomware from exploiting vulnerabilities.
- Ability to detect and block known and unknown (zero-day) ransomware threats.
- Malwarebytes claims one of the highest ransomware detection rates in independent testing.
- Real-time monitoring that constantly checks for ransomware activity.
- Ransomware rollback feature to undo damage caused by ransomware.
- Specialized business edition with centralized management capabilities.
Malwarebytes provides comprehensive protection against even new and evolving ransomware threats. It is a top choice for guarding against destructive ransomware attacks.
Kaspersky
Kaspersky is one of the top antivirus programs for protecting against ransomware. It offers several dedicated security tools focused on blocking ransomware attacks. Kaspersky Anti-Ransomware Tool is a free standalone tool that uses heuristic analysis to detect and block ransomware. It identifies suspicious processes that resemble ransomware behavior and terminates them before encryption can occur.
Kaspersky’s premium antivirus software also includes ransomware protection capabilities. Features like System Watcher monitor system areas ransomware targets and reverses unauthorized changes. Kaspersky Security Network draws on threat intelligence from millions of voluntary participants to quickly identify new ransomware strains. According to independent lab tests by AV-Comparatives, Kaspersky Internet Security had a 99.2% protection rate against ransomware attacks.
Other Notable Antiviruses
Here are some other antivirus programs that provide strong protection against ransomware:
McAfee Total Protection – McAfee uses machine learning algorithms to detect and block ransomware. It also offers a ‘crypto monitor’ feature to detect unauthorized encryption of files.
Norton 360 Deluxe – Norton 360 includes advanced ransomware protection tools like SONAR behavioral detection. It also offers a password manager, secure VPN, and dark web monitoring.
Avast Premium Security – Avast uses machine learning, behavior monitoring, and ransomware shields to catch ransomware. It also provides webcam protection and WiFi inspector.
Trend Micro Maximum Security – Trend Micro blocks ransomware at the network level before it reaches devices. It also checks software behavior against known ransomware patterns.
ESET Internet Security – ESET dynamically detects ransomware based on behavior, heuristics, and reputation. It also includes anti-theft features for laptops.
Best Practices
The most important step you can take to protect against ransomware is to regularly back up your data. Backups allow you to restore your files and systems without paying the ransom if you are infected. Be sure to use the 3-2-1 backup rule – have at least 3 copies of your data, on 2 different storage types, and 1 copy offsite or in the cloud.
Also make sure to keep all your software up-to-date, as patches and updates often address vulnerabilities that ransomware exploits. Enable automatic updates wherever possible, especially for your operating system and antivirus software. Be vigilant about applying security patches as soon as they are released.
Finally, be very cautious about clicking on links or opening attachments, especially from unknown senders. Ransomware is often delivered through phishing emails or compromised websites. Avoid downloading software from unofficial sites and stick to trusted sources. If something looks suspicious, delete it right away rather than clicking on it.
What To Do If Infected
If you suspect your system has been infected with ransomware, it is important to act quickly to contain the threat. Here are the key steps to take:
Isolate the infected device: Immediately disconnect the infected device from any networks, shared drives, or other devices. This helps prevent the ransomware from propagating and infecting additional systems. Shut the device down if possible.
Don’t pay the ransom: Paying the ransom decrypts your files but also encourages and funds criminal activity. There are usually better options for restoring your data.
Restore from backups: Reliable and recent backups are the best way to recover encrypted or deleted files after a ransomware attack. Ensure you have offline, uninfected backups to restore data from if needed.
It’s also important to determine the scope of the infection. Check connected systems and storage devices for signs of compromise. Begin following your ransomware response plan and procedures as soon as possible.
Conclusion
Of all the antivirus software on the market today, several options stand out as the best for removing and preventing ransomware. Bitdefender’s robust multilayered security, including its advanced anti-malware module, provides top-notch ransomware protection. Combined with its minimal system impact, Bitdefender emerges as the overall best choice for guarding against ransomware attacks.
That said, other options like Malwarebytes and Kaspersky also offer strong ransomware defense through behavior monitoring, exploit mitigation, and anti-ransomware modules specifically designed to stop this threat. Ultimately, the best antivirus software for you will depend on your budget, system resources, and specific needs.
To maximize your protection, be sure to use antivirus software in conjunction with other best practices like keeping backups, avoiding suspicious links and attachments, and regularly updating your operating system. With the right combination of security software and safe computing habits, you can effectively minimize the risk of ransomware infection.