Ransomware works by encrypting key files and databases, preventing organizations from accessing them — but lost data is not the only potential result of a ransomware infection. Many ransomware groups are now selling stolen data online using the dark web...

The master boot record (MBR) is a boot sector on a storage device that contains information about how the device is partitioned.  The MBR also contains instructions for locating the operating system (OS). The computer accesses the MBR, then follows...

Hard drives store data magnetically — the read/write heads float above platters, which are disks coated with a thin layer of magnetic material.  The actuator heads rely on magnetism, so it’s logical to wonder whether another magnet could interfere with...

Fortinet FortiGuard Labs has identified a new piece of ransomware that encrypts files while presenting fake Microsoft Windows updates and Word installers. The ransomware, nicknamed “Big Head,” is likely distributed via phishing. Victims are tricked into downloading an update for...

If you’ve accidentally formatted your hard drive before backing up important data, the data may be recoverable — provided that you turn the drive off immediately. Don’t install software (including an operating system) and keep the drive powered off until...

Ransomware remains an enormous threat for businesses of all sizes, and enterprises are particularly popular targets.  When an attack occurs, you need to ensure business continuity. Unfortunately, most organizations haven’t taken the necessary steps: New research from Cohesity indicates that...

The State Department is offering a reward of up to $10 million for information related to the activities of the CL0p Ransomware Gang, a notorious group of cyber actors believed to be responsible for recent attacks. In a tweet, the...

Chip-off data recovery (or chip-off forensics) refers to the process of removing the memory chips from a USB drive, smartphone, memory card, or another device that uses non-volatile flash memory. After removal, raw data can be extracted from the memory...

If your computer recognizes your flash card but presents an incorrect capacity, it’s probably due to firmware issues.  Firmware is specialized software that provides basic instructions to your computer, enabling your machine to read the target device.  If firmware becomes...