Ransomware Attacks: How Well Are You Protected?
Ransomware attacks are a horror scenario for any company. IT managers are aware of this threat and face the challenge of securing systems as best as possible while training employees.
Ransomware attacks are a horror scenario for any company. IT managers are aware of this threat and face the challenge of securing systems as best as possible while training employees.
Ransomware is extortion software that encrypts your data and demands a ransom payment in exchange for the decryption key. The attacks can cause significant damage to companies and lead to revenue losses that threaten their existence, expensive business interruptions, and lasting damage to their image.
Ransomware attacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated. IT managers are required to be doubly vigilant and step up their preventive measures. According to a recent study, the number of ransomware attacks increased by 118 percent in the first half of 2020, and the average ransom demand increased by 62 percent in the same period.
One of the reasons for the spate of ransomware attacks is the use of Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) platforms. These make it easy for non-technical people to launch attacks, lowering the barrier to entry for cybercriminals. In addition, attackers are increasingly using new tactics, such as double blackmail, where sensitive data is siphoned off before encryption takes place. This allows them to collect double ransom - for the decryption key and for the stolen data.
To protect your organization from ransomware attacks, it's important to implement a solid cybersecurity strategy that includes the following measures:
1. regular backups
Data stolen through ransomware attacks can have devastating consequences for businesses. Be sure to back up your data regularly so that you can quickly restore your systems in the event of an attack. Also, be sure to store your backups in a secure location, such as an off-site server or cloud-based service.
2. employee training
Your employees play the most important role in defending against ransomware attacks. Make sure colleagues are aware of the threat and know how to recognize and avoid potential attacks. Conduct regular security training, such as how to detect spoofed emails and links, and how to report suspicious activity to IT.
3. secure passwords
Weak passwords are one of the most common ways cybercriminals gain access to your systems. Make sure you use strong and unique passwords for all your accounts and update them regularly. It's usually worth using a password manager, such as Bitwarden, to generate unique passwords while managing password overload.
4. updated software
Ransomware attacks often exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software. Make sure that all your software and operating systems are updated with the latest patches and security updates.
5. firewall and antivirus program
A firewall and antivirus software can prevent ransomware attacks by blocking malicious traffic and detecting and removing malware. Make sure you use a reputable firewall and antivirus solution and update them regularly.
Ransomware attacks are a growing threat. To minimize the risks to operations, IT managers are required to constantly review and secure the enterprise-wide attack surface. By implementing a solid cybersecurity strategy that includes regular backups, employee training, strong passwords, updated software, and a firewall and antivirus solution, you can significantly reduce the risk of ransomware attacks.
Interested in how you can efficiently and effectively protect your business from ransomware attacks and other cyber threats? Then simply use the form below to request a free IT security analysis of your external attack surface and gain insight into your security posture as well as process accelerating features for optimization.
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