Ransomware is a type of malicious software that encrypts files on a device or network, making them unusable until the victim pays the attacker a ransom. What started as a simple virus spread through floppy discs in the late 1980s has now evolved into a billion-dollar cybercrime industry.
Even with new security measures in place, ransomware groups are constantly evolving to adapt to them and launching new ways to extort victims. As long as these gangs successfully get businesses to pay up, attacks will only continue to increase and expand.
Luckily, there’s good news. With proper preparations, you can minimize the risk of a ransomware attack and mitigate the impacts if an attack does occur. In this blog, we’ll explore the best defense against ransomware and provide you with practical steps you can take to start protecting your business today.
Best Practices and Precautions
To protect against ransomware, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) recommends the following precautions:
Regularly update software and operating systems with the latest patches.
One of the simplest yet most effective measures against ransomware is regularly updating your software and operating systems with the latest patches. Cybercriminals often target outdated applications and systems.
Keeping your systems up to date ensures security gaps and vulnerabilities are patched, making it much harder for attackers to find a way in. (Learn more.)
Never click on links or open attachments in unsolicited emails.
Phishing emails are a common tactic used by cybercriminals to trick users into clicking on malicious links or downloading infected attachments. It’s essential to verify the sender and email content before clicking links or downloading files. If you ever receive an email from an unknown sender or a source you don’t recognize, it’s best to delete it immediately and warn your colleagues.
Anti-phishing and email security protocols and tools: These can include email filters that can help block malicious emails before they reach your inbox.
Vulnerability scanning: Routine scanning can help identify vulnerabilities in your systems and applications before attackers can exploit them.
Automated patch management: Automating patch management eliminates the need for manual checks for outdated software/systems, saving time and ensuring your systems are consistently up to date and secure.
Endpoint detection and response (EDR): EDR focuses on monitoring endpoints, such as desktops, laptops and mobile devices, for suspicious activity and responding to any detected threats. (Learn more.)
Network monitoring: This involves monitoring your network for suspicious activity and responding to any detected threats.
Strong password policies and good password hygiene: This involves implementing password policies that require users to create strong, unique passwords and regularly change them. (Learn more.)
Partner to Succeed
By partnering with True Owl, you can have the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have a team of cybersecurity experts on your side keeping your data safe. We will help you implement and maintain best practices, tools and technologies to protect your business against ransomware.
Why wait any longer? Contact us today and let’s start securing your business against attacks!
