Ransomware attacks have been the focus of headlines for the past few years. It should not be surprising that ransomware attacks have been so costly and complex for businesses around the world, it shouldn’t surprise anyone.
This blog is intended to provide quick answers to common questions like “What is ransomware?”, “What is ransomware?”, “What does ransomware do”, “What is ransomware protection?”, and “Is ransomware prevention possible?”
What is Ransomware Attack?
Ransomware attacks are when malicious software infects your computer and blocks you from accessing your files or data until you pay a ransom. Phishing emails are one way that ransomware can get into your system. Your staff clicks on a malicious hyperlink or downloads a malicious file. That’s it.
Don’t confuse the simplicity of this attack with its simplicity. Ransomware attacks are becoming increasingly complex, hard to detect, and extremely costly to remedy. operators are exploiting vulnerabilities at an alarming rate – faster than security vendors or businesses can catch up.
These toolkits are attractive because they offer discounts, customer support, bundle deals, and any other online marketing strategy you can think of to make them more appealing.
Cyber Management Alliance advises clients not to enter into negotiations with hackers and never to pay up. It’s simple: hackers know that if you pay them once, you will pay again.
It is crucial that you have removed all ransomware from your system after decrypting your files. The chances of being attacked again by hackers are high if they leave behind any residual malicious material. You can’t get away with not paying the second time if you have already paid the first time. CyberSecurity Services
What does Ransomware do?
We’ve already answered the question briefly, but let’s now take a closer look at what happens to your business network when ransomware infects it.
Once malware has infected your system, it locks down files, databases, and computers. This is known as encryption. Your personal or sensitive data is encrypted by the malware so you can’t access them. Ransomware attackers will threaten to release your data online or lock it up until you pay a ransom.
Their releasing data online can cause irreparable reputational damage to your business. Your clients and business associates will be hesitant to do business with you again if they learn that your system has a security vulnerability.
Competitors may use the data to cause more damage to your company. It is possible to access sensitive information required for your business’ day-to-day operations if the data remains encrypted. Losing access to your databases and systems can result in many lost days.
It is not a good situation no matter how you view it. Worst of all, ransomware hackers are often out to make a quick buck. There is no guarantee that your data will be available to you after you pay the ransom.
What should you do if your computer is attacked? There are many ways to reduce the damage of ransomware attacks, but prevention is better than cure. However, in this instance, it is impossible to prevent ransomware attacks entirely. You can take preventive measures to increase your ransomware preparedness and make sure hackers don’t cause any damage to your company.
What is Ransomware Protection?
One of the most common questions in cybersecurity is “What is ransomware protection?”
Ransomware Protection is the deployment of technologies and tools that can prevent your organization from being attacked by ransomware. Important steps include the deployment of a suitable security product or an antivirus solution under Ransomware Protection.
However, it is important to note that ransomware can be evaded by modern malware detection tools.
Ransomware is a serious threat to your security. You might consider purchasing ransomware protection products. You can often add a ransomware-specific add-on to existing security products.
Ransomware protection is essential, but often it is not sufficient. So what is the solution?
Cyber Management Alliance advises clients to increase their Ransomware Readiness.
These are the things you need to remember to achieve Ransomware Readiness.
- To find out where you are today regarding your ability to respond to an attack, download our Ransomware Checklist.
- They will be able to understand the basics of cybersecurity and not click on any email that looks suspicious. This could spell doom for your entire organisation. They should be familiar with your Cyber Incident Response Plan, which should include specific steps for Ransomware Response.
- Rehearse your Incident Response Plan regularly with key decision-makers and stakeholders in your organisation.
This is why we conduct Ransomware Tabletop Exercises. These exercises simulate an attack environment. your team will be forced to think and behave as if they were facing an actual attack. Their familiarity with the Incident Response Plan is also an advantage.
What to do if Ransomware attacks you?
The Golden Hour in cybersecurity can be just as critical for your business’s survival and health, just like in a medical emergency.
You need to prepare for the Golden Hour well in advance. Your top management and you should have asked each other this question during the preparation stage.
We insist on this Checklist for more than just preparedness. In moments of stress, a Ransomware Response Checklist can assist cut through the pandemonium. Even the most experienced security professional may find it tough to think clearly when a complex ransomware encrypts all of your company’s data and locks everyone out.
We also recommend that our clients print out our Ransomware Response Workflow, which serves as a clear and visible guidance in times of crisis. This no-nonsense ransomware response sheet is also a great tool to have on hand.
Bottom Line
When explaining cybersecurity incidents and response plans to our clients, we frequently employ the aviation analogy.
Similarly, both business and technical teams must recognise that ransomware attacks are now a reality. There’s no getting away from them. The ideal technique is to stay awake and aware of the most pressing threats to your company, and then plan for them.
