Ransomware victims have paid over $25 million in the past two years, study finds

[LASER_oneXM]

Ransomware has undeniably become one of the most important things users need to look out for when it comes to staying safe online. Not only could it spell the end for a computer's files, but it could also significantly lighten the victim's wallet along the way.

While it isn't really suggested for victims to pay the ransom demanded by these malicious programs, it seems that many are still doing so. According to a recent study presented by researchers at Google, Chainanalysis, UC San Diego, and the NYU Tandon School of Engineering, those that have been infected have paid over $25 million to ransomware operators over the past two years.

Despite all this, it is still best to be careful of our internet activity. Not opening suspicious email attachments and utilizing proper security software can already go a long way. Ransomware will likely continue to evolve and become even nastier, and it always pays to be protected.