The rise of ransomware over the years has been a growing problem that has become a lucrative business for criminals. Cybercriminals will strike any organization, no matter how big or small, if they feel like there is a good chance of collecting a ransom. Organizations that become victims to ransomware oftentimes believe that paying the ransom is a cost-effective way of getting their data back and, regrettably, this may be the reality.
what is ransomware?
Ransomware is malware used in a cyberattack to block and encrypt access to a system, device, or files. The data becomes unusable until a ransom is paid (often in the form of cryptocurrency). It mainly happens when users accidently download malware through email attachments or links from unknown sources, that are actually hackers. Ransomware attacks are expensive and time-consuming to repair.
How to help protect against ransomware
Ransomware attackers have ways to avoid cybersecurity measures, but you can protect your business. There are steps that can be taken to help prevent your computer and devices from being invaded by ransomware. Here are some tips:
Always back up your data. It is critical to maintain offline, encrypted backups of data and to regularly test your backups. It is important that backups be maintained offline as many ransomware variants attempt to find and delete any accessible backups. If you’ve made an external backup of your files, then you should still have access to your data if cybercriminals try to steal and hold it hostage.
Get Kappa Secure IT Service. Our Kappa Secure IT program provides your business with a multi-layered security approach. We layer your network with a business-class firewall, anti-virus protection, best practice network restrictions and permissions, security risk management, employee education, coupled with monitoring and management of your mission-critical network infrastructure like your firewall, switches, routers and wireless access points.
Stay updated. Keep your operating system, programs, and security software up to date. Make sure all of your organization’s operating systems, applications, and software are updated regularly. Applying the latest updates will help close the security gaps that attackers are looking to exploit. Where possible, turn on auto-updates so you’ll automatically have the latest security patches.
Never click on email attachments or links from unknown sources. You must question every link and attachment that comes across your screens. If the email, link, or attachment exhibits shortened links, unsolicited email links or links with strange characters, don’t click until the sender can be verified.
Never use USB sticks from unknown sources. Do not plug unknown flash drives into any computers in your organization, this is a social engineering tactic where the attacker relies on the curiosity of people. Don’t use the same flash drive for home and work computers.
Ransomware attacks, which prey on companies’ digital files, continue to increase in scale, sophistication, and frequency. Cybersecurity software and common sense can help minimize the odds of a ransomware attack. Training employees and having current backups are big variables. If you would like more information on Kappa Secure IT Service contact us, we are here to help.