How To Protect Your Business From Ransomware Attacks

It’s vital yourself and your team are well prepared and equipped for the possibility of a ransomware attack.  The battles most won are the battles that are well planned out and prepared for with the appropriate tools and knowledge to win the battle, or in this case… Ransomware Attack.

The Effects Of Ransomware On Businesses

Once a ransomware attack occurs, most businesses get hit again within a year of the attack taking place. 

Never pay the cybercriminal to decrypt your files, the chances of them decrypting them are slim and the will continue blackmailing for more money.

You must know what to do in the event of an attack because your reputation could be at stake.  Below are a list of solutions to help, but remember, communication is key as well, with your team, business partners and clients.

Common Types Of Ransomware Attacks

• Crypto Ransomware –  Files and data will be encrypted within a system, only a decryption key will regain access.
  
  
• Lockers –  This ransomware will completely lock the system, making any files and data within inaccessible.  This type will show a locked message on the screen with a countdown timer to pressure victims to act.
  
  
• Scareware – This will claim to have detected a virus and flood the screen with pop up ads, however, some scareware locks the system.
  
  
• Doxware/Leakware – This type of ransomware threatens to leak companies sensitive information online, they create panic with the aim to have the victim pay the ransom
  
  
  

How To Prevent Ransomware Infections

Below are some things you can put in place as a preventative.

• Make sure you are running up to date end point security and anti-virus software
  
  
• Implement monitoring tools across your systems to detect ransomware early.
  
  
• Establish a plan for business continuity.
  
  
• Implement ani-phishing campaigns and block malicious websites.
  
  
• Implement identity management and least privileged access.
  
  
• Put your team through frequent training so they are properly prepared and know what to look out for and how to act on it.
  
  
• Back up your data early and often.
  
  
  

How Businesses Can Recover In The Event Of An Attack

• Determine The Extent Of The Disruption
  
  
• Contact your IT Support Team
  
  
• Assess The Security Of Your Backup System
  
  
• Isolate Any Affected Devices
  
  
• Inform Your Customers And Users Immediately
  
  
• Keep All Your Stakeholders In The Loop
  
  
• Get In Touch With Your Legal Team, the  ICO Information commissioner’s office and contact your IT support company
  
  
• Coordinate Your Responses To The Hackers, Law Enforcement And The Public
  
  
• Don’t Bring In A Hacker To Decrypt Your Files
  
  
• Review The Situation And Add New Protections To Prevent A Future Attack
  
  
  

How We Can Help

If you require any further help, advice or support, don’t hesitate to get in contact with our helpful and knowledgeable support team