How to Protect Your Company Against Ransomware
Ransomware is malicious software that encrypts your files or data and then extorts you to pay a ransom to unlock them. It’s a form of extortion that has been around for years, but recently cybercriminals have hit new levels of sophistication in their attacks.
Typically, when a ransomware attack occurs, your system displays a message that says your data is encrypted and that you must pay a certain amount of money to restore access. Usually, these demands are in the form of cryptocurrency like Bitcoin.
The best way to protect your company against ransomware is by ensuring your network is secure and that you have backups. Continuous data backups can help you recover from a ransomware attack and avoid paying the attackers’ demand.
Isolate the affected system – disconnecting any machines showing signs of infection from wifi and wired networks is crucial. This will prevent the malware from spreading across your network or communicating with command and control systems.
Identify the infection and report it to the authorities – reporting the attack will assist law enforcement agencies in tracking down the malware. It will also help them provide a better picture of the ransomware attack and its perpetrators, enabling them to take action against them.
While there are numerous ways to prevent a ransomware attack, the best thing you can do is be aware of the different types and how they infect your systems. Be cautious with any downloads and attachments that you open, and always be sure to use the latest versions of operating systems, applications, and software.