The Best Defense Against Ransomware

Ransomware is a type of malicious software that encrypts files on a device or network, rendering them unusable until a ransom is paid to the attacker. What began as a simple virus spread through floppy disks in the late 1980s has now evolved into a billion-dollar cybercrime industry.

Despite new security measures, ransomware groups continually adapt, finding new ways to extort victims. As long as these gangs succeed in getting businesses to pay, attacks will only increase and expand.

Fortunately, there’s good news. With proper preparations, you can minimize the risk of a ransomware attack and mitigate its impacts if one occurs. In this blog, we’ll explore the best defenses against ransomware and provide practical steps 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:

  1. Regularly Update Software and Operating Systems One of the simplest yet most effective measures against ransomware is to keep your software and operating systems up to date with the latest patches. Cybercriminals often target outdated applications and systems. Keeping your systems current ensures security gaps and vulnerabilities are patched, making it much harder for attackers to find a way in.
  2. 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. Always verify the sender and email content before clicking links or downloading files. If you receive an email from an unknown sender or a source you don’t recognize, delete it immediately and warn your colleagues.
  3. Back Up Data Regularly on a Separate Device and Store It Offline Regularly backing up your data is essential to minimize the risk of data loss due to ransomware. Keeping a copy of your data on a separate device and storing it offline will help you recover your data after a ransomware attack. It’s also crucial to test your backup system regularly to ensure the data can be restored when needed.
  4. Follow Safe Practices When Using Devices That Connect to the Internet Safe practices include:
    • Avoiding public Wi-Fi networks
    • Not downloading files from untrusted sources
    • Ensuring your firewall is turned on
    • Using up-to-date antivirus software
    • Using a secure web browser

In addition to these measures, consider adopting the following best practices to protect against ransomware:

  • Anti-Phishing and Email Security Protocols and Tools: Email filters can help block malicious emails before they reach your inbox.
  • Security Awareness Training: Regular training can educate employees to identify and avoid phishing emails and other common cyberthreats.
  • Vulnerability Scanning: Routine scanning can identify vulnerabilities in your systems and applications before attackers can exploit them.
  • Automated Patch Management: Automating patch management saves time and ensures 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 detected threats.
  • Network Monitoring: This involves monitoring your network for suspicious activity and responding to detected threats.
  • Network Segmentation: Dividing your network into smaller, more secure segments limits the spread of malware in the event of an attack.
  • Identity and Access Management (IAM): IAM helps manage user access to your systems and applications, ensuring users only have the access they need to perform their roles.
  • Strong Password Policies and Good Password Hygiene: Implement password policies that require users to create strong, unique passwords and regularly change them.

Partner to Succeed

By partnering with an experienced IT service provider like us, you can have peace of mind knowing that a team of cybersecurity experts is keeping your data safe. We can help you implement and maintain best practices, tools, and technologies to protect your business against ransomware. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact us today and let’s start securing your business against attacks.