Handle the first hour of a suspected ransomware or malware infection calmly and correctly — contain it, preserve options, and avoid the moves that make it worse. Use when asked what to do about ransomware, my files are encrypted with a ransom note, I think I have malware, or my computer's been hacked. Produces an immediate containment checklist, a preserve-evidence-and-options step, a recovery path (backups, known decryptors, professional help), guidance on the ransom-payment decision, and reporting steps — for personal/small-setup use, not a substitute for professional incident response.
