WannaCry

On 12 May 2017 WannaCry began affecting computers worldwide. WannaCry is so-called ransomware.

Read the following words and phrases and their definitions.

• ransom - money that is paid in order to free someone who has been captured or kidnapped
• dodgy - false; looking like it cannot be trusted
• flu - a common disease that is caused by a virus and that causes fever, weakness, body aches, and breathing problems
• think twice - think seriously about whether you really should do something before you do it

First read the assignment. Next watch the video. Take notes to help you do the assignment.

1. How does ransomware work?


2. What can happen if a computer in a network is infected by ransomware?


3. Name the three things you can do to protect your computer.