My files are locked and someone wants money. What do I do?
Ransomware locks your files. Leaving it connected can lock more files and spread to other drives.
Treat this as urgent. Stop using it the way it is and get it to a technician as soon as you can.
Does this sound like yours?
- Files are locked, with a ransom message
What usually causes it
- Ransomware installed through a phishing email or an unsafe download
Most likely first. A hands-on test confirms which one it is.
What you can safely check
- Disconnect from the internet now (Wi-Fi and cable)
- Unplug any external drives and USB sticks
Please don't
- Don't pay the ransom; there's no guarantee you'll get your files back
- Don't reconnect to the internet
- Don't copy locked files onto healthy drives
Not sure it's this? Check yours in a minute
This needs professional handling. Bring it in and we'll explain your realistic options. Our free repair checker asks a few quick questions about your laptop or desktop and tells you the most likely cause.
No diagnosis fee. Clear quote before any work. Visit us: Yaba, Lagos · Owerri · +234 902 730 1128
Want more detail? Read our guide: How to protect your business from ransomware.
Questions people ask
My files are locked and someone wants money. What do I do?
Ransomware locks your files. Leaving it connected can lock more files and spread to other drives. The most common causes are: ransomware installed through a phishing email or an unsafe download.
What can I safely check myself?
Disconnect from the internet now (Wi-Fi and cable). Unplug any external drives and USB sticks.
What should I avoid doing?
Don't pay the ransom; there's no guarantee you'll get your files back. Don't reconnect to the internet. Don't copy locked files onto healthy drives.
Where can I get it fixed in Lagos or Owerri?
ENB Technologies repairs laptops and desktops at our offices in Yaba, Lagos and in Owerri, Imo State. There's no diagnosis fee, you get a clear quote before any work, and most common repairs are done the same day. Call or WhatsApp +234 902 730 1128.
Written by the ENB Technologies repair team from the faults we see on the bench every week.
ENB TECHNOLOGIES LIMITED (RC 7714368) repairs laptops and desktops in Yaba, Lagos and Owerri. This page is general information, not a diagnosis of your device. Please don't open your device or try hardware repairs yourself.
