Ransomware is a form of malware that blocks access to data and files until a ransom fee has been paid. Ransomware is the newest in modern-day crime, and it appears in many different forms: “Cryptolocker,” for example encrypts all of your files with military-grade encryption, while “Simplelocker” locks your computer’s desktop- preventing you from gaining access to any of your programs or files. These may seem like harmless pieces of software at first glance but there are significant security risks involved with these types of attacks.

How to Protect Your Business from Ransomware Attacks

1. Manage The Use Of Privileged Accounts

Manage the use of privileged accounts in your company to limit the possibility that a hacker can use one of these accounts for unauthorized purposes. Deploy an endpoint security solution that will scan every file, email attachment, and web request sent in or out of your business to detect ransomware, phishing attempts, keyloggers, spyware, and other forms of malware.

2. Train Your Employees

Train your employees to recognize spear phishing attacks so they know what to watch out for when opening emails or clicking on attachments. Paired with a robust security program and employee training on the warning signals, a cybersecurity solution will protect your business from a wide range of cyberattacks including ransomware.

3. Make Sure All Business Devices Are Updated

Make sure all devices and software used by your business are updated to the most current version, including operating systems and applications. This will help protect your business from new vulnerabilities that may be found and used by hackers.

4. Make Sure To Have A Data Backup And Recovery Strategy For All Critical Information

Make sure you have a data backup and recovery strategy in place for critical information. This can help you get back up and running quickly if your business is hit with ransomware or any other type of malware attack.

5. Be Cautious Of email Links and Attachments

Be cautious of email links and attachments, and do not open them if you are not sure of the sender or the content. This is always good advice but especially critical when your business is under ransomware attack as hackers often use phishing emails to distribute their malicious software.

5 Steps To Take If Your Business Is A Victim Of Ransomware

1. Disconnect from The Internet

If your business is a victim of ransomware, disconnect from the internet immediately. This will help prevent the ransomware from spreading to other devices or systems in your network.  If you are not sure how to deal with the ransomware attack, or if you have been hit with ransomware and your files have been encrypted, contact your IT department or security vendor for help. They will be able to assist you in removing the ransomware and restoring your files.

2. Remove The Ransomware From Your Computer

If you are able to remove the ransomware from your computer, do so as quickly as possible. There are a number of free and paid tools available that can help you do this.

3. Determine What You’re dealing With

If you are not able to remove the ransomware from your computer, or if the ransomware has encrypted your files, you will need to determine what kind of ransomware it is. This can be done by looking for a specific file or folder on your computer that is associated with the ransomware.

4. Revert to Backups

If you have a recent backup of your files, you can restore them to their pre-ransomware state. This will allow you to get your business up and running again quickly.

5. Report the Crime

If your business is a victim of ransomware, report the crime to the police and your insurance company. This will help you recover any losses that you may have incurred as a result of the attack.

Get in Touch with Our Team

Ransomware has become one of the most common and dangerous forms of malware that businesses can face. These attacks can cripple a business by locking down critical files and programs until a ransom is paid. For more information, contact our team of experts. Give us a call at 919-944-7228, starting today.