Ransomware attacks are a growing concern for business leaders and IT professionals. When a company falls victim, critical files are locked, and hackers demand hefty ransoms for their release.
How well-equipped is your organization to withstand a ransomware attack that would bring operations to a standstill? This checklist, created by our AiT Engineers, will help assess your preparedness and strengthen your defenses.
How does a ransomware attack happen?
Ransomware often infiltrates networks via email or malicious websites. A single click on a bad link or a corrupt file download can spread ransomware, locking up files with complex encryption. Hackers then demand a ransom to release your information.
How can you prevent ransomware attacks?
To prevent ransomware from compromising your business data, consider these proactive measures recommended by AiT engineers. Following these steps can help to safeguard your business and provide vigilance to keep your data secure.
- Keep your software up to date
Always keep your computer and programs up to date with auto-updates. Updates often fix problems that ransomware uses to get in. - Use good antivirus software
Equip your business with robust antivirus software. The All in Technology engineers recommend SentinelOne or Microsoft Defender. Ensure it’s activated and regularly updated to detect various ransomware threats. AiT Advantage clients can rest assured, as our team handles all software updates and vigilantly monitors for any suspicious activity across your devices and network. - Be careful with emails
Don’t open emails from people you don’t know. Also, avoid clicking on links or download files unless you are sure they’re safe, as this is the most common way ransomware if transferred into a business. - Back up your files
Back up your critical files and store them separately from your primary computer. This ensures that if ransomware locks your files, you’ll still have access to your data, allowing your business to continue its daily operations without interruption. To learn more about the best way to back up your files check out our other Tech Tip article, Fortify You Files: Best Practices for Backup Security.
Despite implementing strong cybersecurity measures, no defense is entirely foolproof. Cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics, and even well-protected organizations can fall victim to a ransomware attack. If your business finds itself in this situation, swift and strategic action is critical to minimizing damage, protecting sensitive data, and restoring operations. Here’s what you need to do if a ransomware attack occurs.
What do you do if you get ransomware?
DON’T PANIC! Here’s what to do:
- Disconnect from the network
Immediately disconnect your computer from the internet. This may prevent the ransomware from spreading or worsening. - Don’t pay the ransom
There’s no guarantee you’ll get your files back. Plus, paying would only encourage more attacks. - Report the attack
Call All in Technology! We can help walk you through the next steps and help stop other attacks before they spreads further. - Use your backups
If you have backups, then you can restore your files from them.
Effectively responding to a ransomware attack is crucial, but true resilience comes from strengthening your defenses to prevent future incidents. Once recovery efforts are underway, businesses must take a proactive approach to enhance their cybersecurity posture. Here are additional ways your organization can fortify its defenses against ransomware and other cyber threats.
How can businesses protect themselves?
Businesses will want to take a few additional steps to remain safe. Here are some suggestions:
- Train your employees
Educate your employees about ransomware. Provide examples of what to look for and steps to take if they encounter something suspicious. Consider using software like HacWare, which sends fake emails to test their ability to identify malicious activity. AiT recommends all our managed service clients use this software to help staff recognize threats effectively. Contact us and we can help you set it up. - Limit access to key files
Not everyone needs access to every file. Provide access only to those needed to perform their job and by doing this, it may limit how far ransomware can spread. - Have a plan ready
Develop a ransomware response strategy and practice it regularly. Being prepared will enable you to act swiftly and minimize potential damage.
Implementing strong security measures is essential, but unfortunately ransomware threats are continuously evolving, becoming more sophisticated and harder to detect. To stay ahead of these threats, IT professionals and business leaders must understand how ransomware tactics are changing and adapt their security strategies accordingly.
How is ransomware evolving?
Ransomware is constantly evolving. Be aware of these new tactics and share with your team.
- Attacks on phones and tablets
Phones and tablets could be attacked by ransomware now. Be wary with all your electronic devices that connect to the internet. - Double extortion
More advanced ransomware can now steals your data before you are locked out. The attackers then threaten to share your private info if you don’t pay, making the attack even more devastating. - Attacks on cloud services
As businesses migrate to cloud storage, ransomware is increasingly targeting these services. Ensure your cloud accounts are secure with the right data protection.
Stay Safe and Prepared
Ransomware is a serious threat, but you can protect yourself: keep your software updated, be cautious online, and always maintain backups. If you run a business, train your team and have a solid plan in place. Stay alert and prepared.
The All in Technology team is here to help you set up precautions and monitor your network. Reach out today so we can ensure your business is protected against ransomware threats. Don’t wait until it’s too late—contact us now for expert assistance and peace of mind.