7-Step Strategy To Fight Ransomware

 "Your files have been encrypted. Follow the instructions to pay us and get them back."

Ransomware demands like this appeared on many computers in 2020, and experts predict the ransomware scourge will only get worse in 2021. Why?

Ransomware provides criminals with easy income, for one; and extortionists with minimal technical skills can get in on the act. They can build code from open-source repositories, buy a package, or even use "Ransomware as a Service." Contributing to the dismal outlook are signs that attacks will grow more sophisticated, targeting specific victims and perhaps even using artificial intelligence.

With ransomware, victims most often have to pay in Bitcoin, which enables the kidnapper to remain anonymous. Attackers often force victims into making hasty decisions with threats of raising the ransom price or encrypting more files if demands aren’t met promptly.

 

 

Avoiding these risks requires advanced planning and a strategy for responding to demands and mitigating damages. Here are some cybersecurity tips:

1. IT Consultant Columbia SC says backup offline for the best prevention. Drives which are attached to a computer are as vulnerable as the main drive. A cloud backup, updated frequently, is safe from ransomware installed on a computer. Run backups as frequently as possible — and update automatically.
2. Have a policy for the worst case. Advance planning forestalls panic. Will the company refuse to pay no matter what? Will it pay if the potential loss goes beyond a certain level? The time to set a ransomware policy is when the business isn't facing an imminent threat.
3. Develop an incident response plan. Responding to a ransomware attack requires quick and effective decisions. The first step is to isolate the targeted machine to prevent further damage. The company needs to inform the FBI; local law enforcement can't do much.
4. Develop an operational contingency plan with the help of an IT Support expert. Even with good backup, an attack will cause a period of disruption. You can't restore the files till the malware is removed, or you'll just have to start over. Plan in advance how the business sustain operations while files are unavailable and computers have been pulled off the network for software repair.
5. Make sure top management is on board. Ransomware policy affects the whole company, not just IT. Executives should understand the risks and sign off on the policies.
6. Conduct security training to reduce risks. Most ransomware is spread through phishing emails and malicious or compromised websites. To minimize risk, train employees on how to recognize dubious email and not open unexpected attachments.
7. Maintain a comprehensive security strategy by hiring IT Services Columbia SC. Anti-malware is just one part. Your security infrastructure should extend protection to all endpoints, use segmentation to limit proliferation and enable quick, coordinated, adaptive responses to threats. Deploy a tightly woven fabric of integrated solutions including firewalls, IPS, antivirus software, sandbox technology and everything in between.

SpartanTec, Inc. can deliver the advantages of an integrated, collaborative security platform to prepare you in advance for the worsening ransomware forecast.

SpartanTec, Inc.
Columbia, SC 29201
(803) 408-7166
http://manageditservicescolumbia.com/

Serving: Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Columbia, Wilmington, Fayetteville, Florence