Anyone can be hit by a ransomware attack, from individuals, government offices, to global companies. As a businessperson, you need to prevent this ransomware from attacking and paralyzing your company.
Definition of ransomware
Ransomware is a type of malware that blocks access to systems, devices, and files until the owner pays a ransom to cybercriminals. The blocking is usually done by encrypting files on the endpoint, threatening to delete files, or blocking system access. Ransomware crimes are especially dangerous if they attack hospitals, emergency call centers, and other critical infrastructure.
How to prevent ransomware attacks
Routinely and seriously back up data
Backing up your data is the single most effective way to mitigate ransomware attacks. However, you can’t just back up your data, but also do it carefully. By:
- Store backup files properly offline so they can’t be targeted by attackers.
- Use cloud services to help reduce the impact of ransomware as the cloud retains many previous versions of files allowing you to restore back to unencrypted versions
- Routinely ensure backup files are working
In the event of a ransomware attack, verify that stored file backups are not infected before performing a data roll-back.
Create and implement plans & policies
Create an incident response plan so your IT security team knows what to do if and during a ransomware attack. In the plan, define roles and communications to share during the attack. Include a list of contacts such as partners and vendors who need to be notified that your company is under attack. Also create a “suspicious email” policy that informs employees what they need to do if they receive a suspicious email, for example, by requiring employees to report to the IT security team.
Keep systems up to date
Make sure all company operating systems, applications, and software are updated regularly. The latest updates will help close security holes that attackers are looking to exploit. Enable automatic updates where applicable so that software automatically has the latest patches.
Provide training to employees
To stop a ransomware attack in its tracks, your company’s employees need to have the skills to identify and mitigate attacks. That’s why you need to invest in security awareness training to educate your employees. One of these trainings is to inform employees how to spot and avoid malicious emails, as well as what to look for in an email before clicking on a link or downloading an attachment.
Implementing an intrusion detection system
An Intrusion Detection System (IDS) looks for malicious activity and compares network traffic logs with signatures that detect known malicious activity. A robust IDS will frequently update signatures and alert your company quickly if it detects potential malicious activity.
Hypernet is ready to help secure your company’s network system against ransomware. Contact CS for more information.
