FBI offers tips to mitigate threat of ransomware

Once the information is stolen, the users are locked out of their computer and instead receive an alert saying that they must pay a ransom to unlock the system, and they are provided directions on what to pay and how to pay it. — Reuters

If you're plugged in to the Internet, use email or social media, do any kind of online business or shopping transactions, you are vulnerable to a ransomware attack.

By taking measures such as better password protection, recognising questionable emails and separating home and business computer systems, a person can reduce the risk of such an attack, according to cyber experts from the Albuquerque Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.