Ransomware | Buzz Cybersecurity

What is Ransomware Protection: Strategies to Shield Your Data

As ransomware attacks continue to rise, it has become imperative for business owners to prioritize data protection. Whether you run a small startup or a large enterprise, understanding what ransomware protection is and implementing effective strategies can save you from potential disaster. Join us in this article as we delve into the world of ransomware protection, offering valuable insights and practical tips to help you fortify your data defenses. Don’t let cybercriminals hold your business hostage. Empower yourself with the knowledge and tools to keep your data safe.

What is Ransomware Protection?

Ransomware protection refers to the strategies and measures implemented to safeguard data and systems from ransomware attacks. It involves a combination of preventive measures, such as regular backups and software updates, as well as proactive security measures to detect and block ransomware threats. Businesses can reduce the risk of falling victim to ransomware attacks and the potential damage these incidents may cause by putting in place effective ransomware protection.

How Does Ransomware Protection Work?

Ransomware protection works by employing various techniques and technologies to prevent, detect, and respond to ransomware attacks. Here are some key components of ransomware protection:

Regular Backups: Creating and maintaining up-to-date backups of critical data ensures that even if ransomware encrypts files, businesses can restore them from backup copies.
Endpoint Security: Deploying robust endpoint security solutions helps detect and block ransomware threats at the device level, preventing the execution of malicious code.
Email Filtering: Implementing advanced email filtering systems can identify and block phishing emails and malicious attachments, which are common entry points for ransomware.
Network Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of network traffic and behavior can help identify suspicious activities and potential ransomware infections.
User Education: Training employees on ransomware awareness and safe online practices can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to ransomware attacks.

By combining these elements, businesses can establish a comprehensive ransomware protection strategy that safeguards their data and systems from this evolving threat.

Why is Ransomware Protection Important?

Ransomware protection is of utmost importance for businesses due to the significant impact that ransomware attacks can have on their operations, finances, and reputation. Ransomware attacks can encrypt critical data, rendering it inaccessible until a ransom is paid, causing disruption to business operations and potentially leading to financial losses. Moreover, falling victim to a ransomware attack can damage a company’s reputation and erode customer trust. By implementing effective ransomware protection measures, businesses can minimize the risk of such attacks, protect their valuable data, and ensure the continuity of their operations, ultimately safeguarding their reputation and maintaining the trust of their stakeholders.

What are the Different Types of Ransomware Protection?

Ransomware attacks have become increasingly common in recent years, posing a significant threat to businesses of all sizes. To protect your data and minimize the risk of falling victim to these attacks, it is crucial to implement effective ransomware protection strategies. In this blog post, we will explore the different types of ransomware protection available to small, medium, and large business owners.

Endpoint Protection

Endpoint protection involves securing individual devices such as laptops, desktops, and mobile devices against ransomware attacks. This can be achieved through the installation and regular updating of antivirus software, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems. Endpoint protection software can detect and block malicious codes, preventing them from infecting your devices and encrypting your data.

Email Filtering

Ransomware attacks often begin with a malicious email attachment or a phishing email that tricks users into clicking on a harmful link. Implementing robust email filtering solutions can help detect and block these malicious emails, reducing the risk of ransomware infections. Email filtering software analyzes incoming emails, identifying and quarantining suspicious attachments or links before they reach your employees’ inboxes.

Regular Data Backup

One of the most effective ransomware protection strategies is to regularly back up your data. In the event of a ransomware attack, having a recent backup of your critical files and systems can allow you to restore access to your data without paying the ransom payment. It is essential to store backups in secure off-site locations or on cloud-based platforms, ensuring they are not accessible to the same network that could potentially be compromised by ransomware. Regularly testing the restoration process is also important to ensure the backups are functioning properly.

Network Monitoring

Continuous monitoring of network traffic and behavior can help detect and respond to ransomware attacks in real time. Network monitoring software can identify unusual patterns or activities that may indicate a ransomware infection, allowing businesses to take immediate action to mitigate the threat. This can include isolating infected devices, blocking malicious IPs, or disabling compromised accounts.

User Education and Training

Educating employees about ransomware threats and safe online practices is crucial in preventing infections. Regular training sessions can teach employees how to recognize and avoid phishing emails, suspicious websites, and potentially harmful downloads. By promoting a culture of cybersecurity awareness, businesses can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to ransomware attacks.

Patch Management

Keeping software and operating systems up-to-date is essential to protecting against ransomware attacks. To address vulnerabilities that ransomware can exploit, software vendors frequently release security patches and updates. Implementing a robust patch management system ensures that all devices are regularly updated with the latest security patches, reducing the risk of successful ransomware attacks.

Incident Response Plan

Having an incident response plan in place is crucial in minimizing the impact of a ransomware attack. This plan should outline the steps to be taken in the event of an attack, including isolating infected devices, disconnecting from the network, and notifying relevant personnel. It should also include the contact information for IT support or a cybersecurity team that can assist in mitigating the attack. Testing and regularly updating the incident response plan can help ensure that businesses are prepared to respond effectively to ransomware attacks.

Is Ransomware Protection Necessary for Individuals?

While businesses are often the primary targets of ransomware attacks due to the potential for larger payouts, individuals are not immune to the threat. Individual users can be just as vulnerable, if not more so, due to their lack of resources and expertise in cybersecurity.

There are several reasons why ransomware protection is necessary for individuals:

1. Personal Data Protection: Individuals store a significant amount of personal and sensitive information on their devices, including financial records, personal photos, and confidential documents. Losing access to such data can be devastating and can lead to identity theft or financial loss. Ransomware protection provides an extra layer of security to safeguard this valuable information.

2. Financial Impact: Ransomware attacks can be financially crippling for individuals. Cybercriminals often demand payment in cryptocurrencies, making it difficult to trace and recover funds. Paying the ransom does not guarantee that the attacker will decrypt the files, leaving individuals at a loss. With proper protection measures in place, individuals can minimize the risk of falling victim to ransomware and avoid the associated financial consequences.

3. Online Safety: Ransomware attacks often occur through exploiting vulnerabilities in software or through social engineering tactics such as phishing emails. By having ransomware protection in place, individuals can better safeguard their online safety and privacy. This includes having antivirus software installed, regularly updating software and operating systems, and being cautious when clicking on suspicious links or downloading files.

4. Prevention is Key: Ransomware protection is not just about responding to an attack; it’s also about preventing one from happening in the first place. By implementing security best practices and following safe online practices, individuals can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim of ransomware. This includes regularly backing up important data, using strong and unique passwords, and being wary of unsolicited emails or messages.

5. Peace of Mind: Finally, having proper ransomware protection in place provides individuals with peace of mind. Knowing that their data and devices are secure can help alleviate the stress and anxiety that come with the threat of ransomware. It allows individuals to use their devices and access their data without the constant worry of falling victim to an attack.

Can Ransomware Protection Guarantee Full Security?

While ransomware protection measures can significantly enhance the security of an organization’s data and systems, it is important to note that they cannot guarantee full security against all types of malware. Ransomware protection strategies aim to prevent and detect ransomware attacks, but the ever-evolving nature of malware means that new variants can emerge that may bypass certain defenses. Additionally, if an organization’s data is not adequately backed up, there is still a risk of losing access to encrypted files in the event of an attack. Therefore, while ransomware protection is crucial, it should be complemented by other cybersecurity measures, such as robust antivirus software, regular security updates, and employee training, to create a comprehensive defense against malware threats.

How Does Ransomware Protection Help Against Computer and PC Spam?

Ransomware protection primarily focuses on defending against and mitigating the impact of ransomware attacks, which involve the encryption of files and the demand for a ransom. While ransomware protection measures can indirectly help against computer and PC spam to some extent, their primary purpose is not specifically targeted towards spam prevention. Computer and PC spam typically refers to unsolicited and unwanted emails, messages, or advertisements. To combat spam, organizations should implement robust email filtering systems, anti-spam software, and user education on identifying and avoiding spam emails. These measures, combined with a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy that includes ransomware protection, can help organizations minimize the risk and impact of both ransomware attacks and computer spam.

Conclusion

In conclusion, ransomware protection is an essential aspect of safeguarding business data and systems from the ever-present threat of ransomware attacks. By implementing preventive measures such as regular backups, software updates, and robust email security, businesses can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to ransomware. Additionally, proactive strategies like user education and network monitoring can help detect and mitigate potential ransomware threats. However, it is important to acknowledge that ransomware protection cannot guarantee full security against all types of malware. In the unfortunate event of a ransomware attack, organizations should have an incident response plan in place to unlock encrypted files, engage with cybersecurity experts, and, if necessary, deny the ransom demand and delete the malicious software. By adopting a comprehensive approach to ransomware protection, businesses can fortify their defenses and minimize the potential impact of these unknown and evolving threats.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to cybersecurity, Buzz Cybersecurity leads the way with a diverse range of services designed to meet the unique needs of businesses. Our expertise spans managed IT services, cloud solutions, disaster recovery, and ransomware protection. What sets us apart is our unwavering dedication to exceeding expectations and providing exceptional cybersecurity solutions. Businesses across neighboring states trust us for our commitment to their security. Choose Buzz Cybersecurity and experience the unparalleled protection we offer.

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Photo by Michael Geiger on Unsplash

What is a Ransomware Attack: Defending Against Digital Extortion

Picture this: your business comes to a screeching halt, your files are encrypted, and a demand for a substantial ransom appears on your screen. This nightmare scenario is a reality for countless small and medium-sized businesses falling victim to ransomware attacks. To protect your business from this growing threat, it is crucial to understand what ransomware attacks are and how they can be prevented. In this article, we will empower you with the knowledge and strategies needed to defend against digital extortion. From implementing robust cybersecurity measures to educating your employees, discover the proactive steps you can take to safeguard your business and ensure its resilience in the face of ransomware attacks.

What is a Ransomware Attack?

A ransomware attack is a type of cyber attack where malicious software is used to encrypt a victim’s files or lock them out of their computer system. The attacker then demands a ransom, usually in the form of cryptocurrency, in exchange for restoring access to the files or system. Ransomware attacks can have devastating consequences for businesses, as they can result in data loss, operational disruptions, financial losses, and damage to the organization’s reputation. Businesses need to understand the nature of ransomware attacks and take proactive measures to defend against them.

The History of Ransomware Attacks

Ransomware attacks have a history that spans several decades, starting in the late 1980s. The first known instance of ransomware called the AIDS Trojans or PC Cyborg, emerged in 1989. Created by Joseph Popp, it targeted MS-DOS systems and encrypted files, demanding a ransom to be sent to a PO box in Panama. However, it wasn’t until the early 2000s that ransomware attacks gained more prominence.

In 2005, the Archiveus ransomware variant emerged, using strong encryption and demanding payment via an online payment service. This marked a shift in the sophistication of ransomware attacks. Over the years, ransomware attacks continued to evolve, becoming more sophisticated and widespread.

One significant milestone was the emergence of CryptoLocker in 2013. CryptoLocker introduced advanced encryption algorithms and demanded payment in B itcoin. It spread through infected email attachments and infected over 500,000 systems before it was eventually taken down.

In subsequent years, ransomware families like Locky and Cerber gained prominence. They utilized new techniques, such as using macros in Microsoft Office documents and leveraging the Tor network for communication. These ransomware variants spread through malicious email attachments and exploit kits.

The year 2017 saw two major ransomware attacks that caused global disruption. WannaCry and NotPetya exploited vulnerabilities in the Windows operating system and spread rapidly across networks, affecting organizations worldwide and causing significant financial losses.

In recent years, ransomware attacks have continued to evolve. Ransomware families like Ryuk have emerged, targeting organizations, particularly in the healthcare sector. These attacks often follow a targeted approach, infiltrating networks and demanding high ransoms based on the victim’s perceived ability to pay.

More recently, ransomware variants like Maze and Sodinokibi (REvil) have introduced a new tactic of exfiltrating sensitive data before encrypting it. They threaten to publish the stolen data if the ransom is not paid, increasing the pressure on victims.

The rise of cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin, has facilitated anonymous ransom payments, making it more challenging to track and apprehend attackers. As a result, businesses must remain vigilant, stay updated on the latest security measures, and implement robust cybersecurity practices to defend against these evolving and increasingly sophisticated ransomware threats.

How Do Ransomware Attacks Work?

Ransomware attacks typically follow a specific process. Here’s how they work:

Infection: Ransomware is usually delivered through malicious email attachments, infected websites, or compromised software. Once a user unknowingly interacts with the infected source, the ransomware gains access to the system.

Encryption: After gaining access, the ransomware starts encrypting files on the victim’s computer or network. This process renders the files inaccessible and unusable without the decryption key.

Ransom Note: Once the encryption is complete, the attacker displays a ransom note on the victim’s screen. This note contains instructions on how to pay the ransom and obtain the decryption key. It often includes threats of permanent data loss or increased ransom amounts if the demands are not met within a specified timeframe.

Payment: The attacker typically demands payment in cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin, to make it difficult to trace the transaction. They may provide instructions on how to make the payment and communicate with the victim to facilitate the process.

Decryption (or not): If the victim decides to pay the ransom, they may receive the decryption key to unlock their files. However, there is no guarantee that the attacker will uphold their end of the bargain, and some victims may not receive the decryption key even after paying.

It is important to note that paying the ransom does not guarantee the recovery of files or protection against future attacks. Therefore, businesses must focus on prevention, detection, and recovery strategies to defend against ransomware attacks.

What are the Different Types of Ransomware Attacks?

Ransomware attacks come in various forms, each with its characteristics and methods of operation. Here are some of the different types of ransomware attacks:

Encrypting Ransomware

This is the most common type of ransomware attack. It encrypts the victim’s files, making them inaccessible until a ransom is paid. Examples include WannaCry and CryptoLocker.

Locker Ransomware

Unlike encrypting ransomware, locker ransomware does not encrypt files but instead locks the victim out of their device or system. It typically displays a full-screen message or lock screen, demanding a ransom to regain access.

Scareware

Scareware tricks victims into believing their system is infected with malware or that they have committed illegal activities. It displays alarming messages and prompts the victim to pay a ransom to remove the supposed threats.

Mobile Ransomware

This type of ransomware targets mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets. It can lock the device or encrypt files, demanding a ransom for their release. Mobile ransomware often spreads through malicious apps or compromised websites.

Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS)

RaaS is a model where cybercriminals develop and distribute ransomware to other attackers, who then carry out the attacks. The original developer receives a portion of the ransom payments as a commission.

Doxware

Also known as leakware or extortionware, doxware threatens to publish sensitive or confidential data unless a ransom is paid. This type of ransomware is particularly concerning for businesses that handle sensitive customer information.

Ransomworm

Ransomworms combine the characteristics of ransomware and worms. They can spread across networks and infect multiple devices, encrypting files and demanding ransoms. Notable examples include WannaCry and NotPetya.

It is important to stay informed about the evolving landscape of ransomware attacks and take appropriate measures to protect your systems and data. Implementing robust cybersecurity practices, staying vigilant, and regularly updating security measures can help defend against these various types of ransomware attacks.

What are the Steps to Prevent a Ransomware Attack?

Preventing a ransomware attack requires a proactive approach and implementing various security measures. Here are the steps you can take to protect your business:

Educate Employees: Train your employees on best practices for cybersecurity, such as identifying phishing emails, avoiding suspicious websites, and not clicking on unknown links or attachments. Regularly remind them about the risks of ransomware attacks and the importance of following security protocols.
Implement Robust Security Software: Install and regularly update reputable antivirus and anti-malware software on all devices. This software can detect and block known ransomware threats, providing an additional layer of protection.
Keep Systems and Software Updated: Regularly update your operating systems, software, and applications with the latest security patches and updates. Vulnerabilities in outdated software can be exploited by ransomware attackers, so staying up to date is crucial.
Backup Data Regularly: Implement a robust backup strategy to regularly backup your critical data. Store backups offline or in a separate location to prevent them from being compromised in case of a ransomware attack. Test the backup restoration process to ensure its effectiveness.
Use Strong Passwords and Enable Multi-Factor Authentication: Encourage the use of strong, unique passwords for all accounts and systems. Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever possible to add an extra layer of security.
Restrict User Privileges: Limit user privileges to only what is necessary for their roles. This helps minimize the impact of a potential ransomware attack by preventing the malware from spreading to sensitive areas of the network.
Implement Email and Web Filtering: Utilize email and web filtering solutions to block malicious attachments, links, and websites that are commonly used to distribute ransomware. These filters can help prevent users from accessing potentially dangerous content.
Monitor Network Activity: Implement network monitoring tools to detect any unusual or suspicious activity. This can help identify potential ransomware infections early and allow for a prompt response.
Create an Incident Response Plan: Develop a comprehensive incident response plan that outlines the steps to be taken in the event of a ransomware attack. This plan should include procedures for isolating infected systems, notifying appropriate personnel, and engaging with law enforcement if necessary.

By following these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to a ransomware attack and protect your business from the potentially devastating consequences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, ransomware attacks pose a significant threat to businesses of all sizes. As we have explored throughout this article, understanding what ransomware attacks are, how they work, and the steps to prevent them are crucial for protecting your business from the devastating consequences of digital extortion. By implementing robust cybersecurity measures, educating employees, regularly backing up data, and staying vigilant against phishing attempts, businesses can fortify their defenses against ransomware attacks. It is also important to note that ransomware attacks often go hand in hand with other cyber threats, such as spam and data breaches. Therefore, organizations must adopt a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity, addressing all potential vulnerabilities to ensure the safety and continuity of their operations.

Final Thoughts

Protecting your business from cybersecurity threats is paramount, and Buzz Cybersecurity is the leading authority in this field. With our comprehensive range of services, including managed IT services, advanced cloud solutions, proactive managed detection and response, and dependable disaster recovery, we have the expertise and tools to keep your business secure. Our client base spans various industries and sizes, from small businesses to large corporations, not only in California but also in neighboring states. If you’re seeking to strengthen your digital security and mitigate the risk of security incidents, don’t hesitate to contact our dedicated team. We are committed to providing the support you need.

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Image by Michael Treu from Pixabay

Ziggy Ransomware Shuts Down, Refunds Money

In a stunning reversal, the Ziggy admin is now giving ransom money back to victims

Darth Vadar. The Grinch. The Ziggy Admin. What do they all have in common? Once known as infamous agents of villainy, they all experienced one heck of a character arc after seeing the light. What caused this change of heart? It’s difficult to say for sure. Vadar was turned back by the love of a son who chose to believe that there was still good inside of him, while Mr. Grinch was won over by the indomitable spirit of the Whoville residents when he grossly misjudged the source of their joy, causing his attempt to steal Christmas to fail miserably.

And the Ziggy admin? In early February, the cybercriminal operation announced that they were shutting down for good. They shared with Bleeping Computer that they had turned to crime because they lived in a developing country but that they were “very sad” about the crimes they had committed and had decided to release the encryption keys publicly for their victims. They also admitted that they were concerned about legal problems and the possibility of having the same fate as ransomware extortionists Emotet and Cyberwalker, who had recently been raided.

No other information was forthcoming, so it became a waiting game to see if Ziggy would make good on their promise. Many cyber-criminologists remained skeptical. Yet the Ziggy admin was true to their word—sort of. The next day they published the decryptor code, offering an SQL file with 922 decryption keys that victims could use to unlock their files, but they were loaded with malware. In addition to the keys, the admin also published a tool to make the process less complicated, along with the source code for a decryptor that does not need an internet connection to work.

They are not the first hackers to do a 180. Days before, the hacker group known as Fonix (aka Xonix and FonixCrypter) had also made a similar announcement, stating that guilt had finally caught up with them and releasing the decrypter codes would help to alleviate that. And in the past, other groups such as GandCrab, Shade, and TeslaCrypt have also made similar turnarounds.

What makes Ziggy different is that in mid March, they announced that they would be refunding their victims the money paid for the ransom. It was a move that shocked many. Within a week of the unprecedented announcement, they stated they were ready to begin making restitution.

The Ziggy admin told Bleeping Computer that they would begin refunding the ransom in Bitcoin at the rate it was valued on the day that the ransom was paid. Which means they are still making a tidy profit, given the fact that the price of Bitcoin has been ascending the last three months. On the day that Ziggy made the announcement, the price of Bitcoin was around $39,000. Five days later, it had jumped above $61,000.

The Ziggy admin insists though that they are not profiting, and have even had to put their house up for sale to pay for restitution. They also have stated that they are now going to start using their powers for good as “ransomware hunters.”

Maybe it’s not that surprising a move after all. Among cybercriminals, Ziggy was never considered a hardcore bad guy in comparison to others like the aforementioned Emotet, whose actions prompted a joint international strike force coordinated by the Eureopean Union to launch a crackdown that ended with seizing of computers and arrests. Or Egregor, who shut down Translink’s transportation system in Vancouver last year when ransom demands were not met.

Ziggy was more “old fashioned” in their crime sprees. They would encrypt files after hacking into a company’s records, but never actually steal them and threaten to sell them to the public if the ransom wasn’t paid.

So what do we make of all of this? Was it true repentance or a strategically-timed ploy to escape punishment? We can’t really know the heart of a person and this blogger will refrain from passing judgement. In the end, perhaps it’s enough that they’re going to refund the monies ransomed, and trying to be a force of good in the cyberworld.

All we can tell you is that an ounce of prevention is always better than a pound of cure. So if you have any lingering doubts about whether or not you’re protected against a ransomware attack, let us help with a free assessment today. Don’t hope to depend on the kindness of strangers!

If you’ve been the victim of a Ziggy ransomware attack, please reach out to the admin directly at [email protected] with proof of your payment in Bitcoin and computer ID. It’s estimated that you’ll see a refund to your Bitcoin wallet in roughly two weeks.

Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

Ransomware Attacks

NOTE: if you have already been the victim of a ransomware attack, please contact us immediately.

While you’re running your business, there are evil people thinking up new ways every day to steal your hard-earned dollars. It seems like they never sleep. You’ve taken steps to ensure that you won’t be an easy target like installing good alarm systems, running background checks on potential employees, and hiring security guards (or you yourself carry). And that’s great for threats you can see, but what about the virtual bad guys? How do you fight them? Sadly, many companies never think about this until it’s too late. Kudos to you for taking the time to research cybersecurity threats and how to protect your assets. Ransomware has become one of the most costly types of malware in the last decade. At Buzz Cybersecurity, we have seen this happen and it’s never pretty. You’re probably wondering how to prevent ransomware. Let’s take a more in-depth look at it and how you can avoid becoming a victim.

What is ransomware?

In layman’s terms, ransomware is a type of malware that gets its name from the fact that the attackers gain access to data and hold it hostage for a ransom. This is known as cryptoviral extortion. Cybercriminals can block the company’s access, or if its particularly sensitive data, threaten to make it public if the demands are not met. Such attacks are becoming more frequent and more brazen. Earlier this month Variety reported that a group known as REvil claimed to have dirt on President Donald Trump and threatened New York law firm Grubman Shire Meiselas & Sachs with a data dump if they did not receive $42 million within 7 days, doubling their fee after the firm made an offer of $365,000. To show they meant business, and as a possible punishment for what they considered an insulting offer, REvil published a 2.4 GB document containing another client’s info: Lady Gaga’s contracts for concerts, TV appearances, and merchandising. Since payment is typically demanded in Bitcoin or some other cryptocurrency, tracing the ransom and making arrests are still very difficult. Research shows that 70% of those infected with ransomware have paid to get their data back, even when advised not to by law enforcement, so there seems to be little incentive for these cyber-terrorists to stop anytime soon.

How do ransomware attacks work?

Most ransomware attacks begin with an unsuspecting employee opening an email attachment that has a trojan disguised as a legitimate file. (Although it should be noted that much is still unknown about how some attacks were able to take place; in 2017 computers using Microsoft Windows were the target of the “WannaCry Worm,” which traveled between computers without user interaction) Once released, the malware is able to encrypt the user’s data, usually by tricking him or her into giving it admin access. However, if a company has significant security holes, aggressive malware may not need to trick the recipient. A message is then sent to the victim with instructions on how to pay the ransom electronically. Once received, a mathematic key is sent to the company so the files can be unlocked.

What’s at stake?

In 2019, ransomware is estimated to have caused organizations global damage to the sum of $11.5 billion dollars. The average amount a company would pay last year was $41,000. But according to an article in Forbes Magazine, that number has more than doubled in 2020 to over $84,000. That includes lost revenue, hardware replacement, and repair costs, but the damage to a company’s brand is harder to gauge. And while 98% of those who paid did get an encryption tool, on average they still lost 3% of their files. That may not sound like much, but remember, there is no guarantee that you will be one of the lucky ones that are dealing with a thief who intends to honor their word in the first place and give you anything. And you should also expect your normal IT duties to take a backseat during recovery. It can take many, many hours to get things back to where they need to be.

Who’s at risk?

You might think that because you’re a small business, hackers will bypass you in favor of larger corporations who will be able to pay a larger ransom. And that’s what they are counting on. While it’s true that government agencies, big law firms, and medical facilities make tempting targets because they are more likely to pay up quickly, often times targets are chosen because of ease of opportunity: smaller businesses don’t always have the security measures in place that keep the bad guys from finding the weak link in the fence. According to an article by CNBC published late last year, 43% of small businesses are targeted, but only 14% are prepared to defend themselves. And as we like to say here at Buzz, the best defense is a good offense.

Steps you can take starting now

The truth is that no organization is immune to ransomware, but there are some things you can do to ensure that you are less of a target and mitigate the damage if you are attacked.

Take stock of your current situation. This is a step you cannot afford to skip. By keeping your operating system patched and up-to-date, you make it harder for cyber thieves to exploit you. If you’re not sure what to look for, Buzz Cybersecurity has a free audit that you can take advantage of to ensure you don’t have “open doors” that are inviting an attack.
Back up your files- frequently! While this won’t stop a ransomware attack, it at least ensures that you have a disaster plan recovery (DPR) in place that will make the damage much less significant.
Invest in anti-virus software. Again, nothing is foolproof, but a good system will detect malware programs and may prevent ransomware from successfully getting access to your data. Don’t assume though that the software that was included with your PC is going to meet your needs. We can help you look at the variables that you need to consider when choosing the right software that will protect your most valuable data.
Educate yourself and your employees. It’s not enough for you to know what to do to prevent an attack. You should look to bring your entire team on board so everyone can work together. We offer a program called Lunch & Learn that’s free for your company, and we cover things like the basics of malware, how to spot and avoid a potential phishing email, protecting credentials, and what to do if an employee suspects there has been a breach.
Network monitoring. You can’t be everywhere at once, so we recommend having an added safety net in place. There are some free tools available out there, but again, like anti-virus software, it may be missing key features that you need. Because of the many drawbacks such as not being able to upgrade and most not offering any support should you need it, many in upper management are not comfortable using these tools and we can’t say we blame them. The fact is these products will not give you the same stability or reliability as a paid commercial tool. We started off talking about threats you can see- and in the same way that a good home security system protects your loved ones and gives you peace of mind, Buzz Cybersecurity specializes in actively monitoring your “cyber-home” during an attempted break in.

These steps are not all-inclusive, but some basics to get you started. We’re happy to talk IT shop with you if you want to take the next step. Or sign up to get our emails and stay in the loop on the constantly evolving world of cybersecurity. You’ve put your blood, sweat, and prayers into your business. Don’t let some punk who’s never worked an honest day in their life swoop in and take it from you.

Image by Pete Linforth from Pixabay