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1. How do criminals install ransomware?

Ransomware is usually installed when you open a malicious email attachment, or when you click a malicious link in an email message, instant message on a social networking site, or any other website. Ransomware can even be installed when you visit a malicious website. Please visit Microsoft's webpage about ransomware for more information.

2. Can the State’s Attorney’s Office or local law enforcement help me get back into my computer?

No. Unfortunately, ransomware is an extremely sophisticated malware that uses encryption that is unbreakable. Neither the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office, nor your local law enforcement can break the encryption.