How dangerous is encrypting Ransomware to your business?
Millions of ransom attacks are attempted on companies both small and large each year and they are only increasing. This is an easy way for hackers to make money by sitting at their keyboard in a different country.
The most recent attack was last Friday. Cyber bad guys have spread ransomware, known as WannaCry, to computers around the world. It locks down all the files on an infected computer.
The hackers then demand $300 or more in order to release control of the files. That’s why it’s called ransomware.
Ransomware can encrypt your company’s most important files, such as accounting, medical data, or confidential customer information. Once encrypted, you can’t get the files back—unless you pay the ransom.
There’s no guarantee that paying the ransom will give you access to your files again. Also, it makes you a target for future malware infection.
You’re vulnerable if:
- You use legacy software or use older Windows operating systems such as XP, Windows 2003
- Your browser and/or OS is unpatched
- You operate with outdated equipment.
- You don’t have any antimalware protection and don’t have a legitimate backup plan
- You lack a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy.
Proactive prevention
As we have learned, the best way to battle a difficult situation is to avoid it in the first place. The best strategy is to be proactive and avoid becoming the next victim of Ransomware.
Take these steps to keep ransomware from harming your business.
- Keep browsers, OSes, and other software applications up-to-date.
- Use an antimalware program to detect and remove potential threats
- One of the most common ways that computers are infected with ransomware is through social engineering.
- Educate users on how to detect phishing campaigns, suspicious websites, and other scams
- Make secure copies of your data on a regular basis and store them offsite.
Be sure backup files are not stored on a mapped drive. If backing up onto a USB or external hard drive, be sure the devices are physically disconnected from the computer.
We recommend having a cloud backup strategy for your files. Installing multiple layers of cybersecurity protection can detect and block ransomware attacks before they happen.
For the best protection, we recommend these layers:
- Antivirus with Firewall active monitoring
- Antiexploit Antimalware/Antiransomware such as Malwarebytes
Some programs only block and prevent viruses from attacking your system. Using a multilayered security strategy ensures your system the best protection.
NetServ uses a multilayer strategy and combines Antimalware/Antiransomeware with an antivirus solution.
Hackers have programs that work around the clock to target your system and gain access for easy money!!
They only need to succeed once. Is your business protected from Ransom?
NetServ your trusted adviser is here to help. Contact us for a free evaluation of your system.