<p>What can you do to prevent cybercriminals locking all your personal files and demanding money to free them? Photograph: /Alamy</p><p>A few sensible precautions will help minimise the chances of a CrytoLocker attack. So what are our top tips?</p><p>Back up your files. If you use an external hard drive, don't leave it connected to your PC unless you are backing up. Alternatively, pay for an online back-up service but bear in mind you may still be vulnerable if your backed-up files are mapped as a network drive. Check with your provider if you are unsure.</p><p>Create files in the Cloud and upload photos to online accounts like Flickr or Picasa.</p><p><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/money/2013/oct/19/10-ways-beat-cryptolocker-protect-files">Keep reading...</a></p>