The emergence of mobile ransomware, a form of malware, presents a growing threat to smart phone users.  Cybercriminals use ransomware to lock a device or encrypt its data, then demand payment to restore the device to its previous state.  They are using social engineering ploys, malicious links and stolen user credentials to infect mobile devices.

Here are some best practices to prevent, mitigate, and recover from a ransomware infection:

• Download applications only from trusted sources
• Ensure antivirus/antimalware software is installed and up to date
• Back up the data on your mobile phone regularly to an external device or location
• Recognize that paying a ransom may not cause the device to be unlocked, as promised, or may be a temporary unlock
• Ensure mobile device permission are set to prevent applications from being able to take control of the device
• Review US-CERT security tips on safe browsing, available at www.us-cert.gov/ncas/tips (US-Cert is the United States computer Emergency Readiness Team, a division of the Department of Homeland Security)