How Does Ransomware Work?
Ransomware is malware that encrypts files, locks computers, and demands a payment to unlock them. It is used to extort money from victims, and it can cause significant disruption to businesses if it encrypts key corporate data.
Ransomeware is often spread through phishing emails and malicious attachments, but it can also be spread through drive-by downloads, when users access websites that are already infected. It can also spread through network exploitation, which exploits vulnerabilities or compromised credentials to gain access to systems.
Cybercriminals often target small and midsize businesses (SMBs) because they may lack the resources and commitment to security that larger organizations have. They are also less likely to have robust backups that can be quickly restored in the event of an attack. SMBs are particularly vulnerable because they rely heavily on their computer systems to manage data and conduct business. Any downtime can result in lost revenue and diminished productivity, so they may be willing to pay a ransom to regain access to their files.
Over time, many attackers have shifted their focus from simply encrypting files to more sophisticated exfiltration tactics. For example, the latest variant of ransomware called Ryuk focuses on stealing data from an infected organization and then selling it on the Dark Web. This type of attack is often more lucrative for attackers because they can sell stolen data to multiple buyers.
While implementing technical solutions and security controls can reduce ransomware risk, understanding how ransomware works can help you prepare for an attack. Having offsite, offline backups that can be quickly restored can significantly mitigate the impact of a ransomware attack.