Ransomware is a dangerous cybercrime that could bring all your operations to a halt. With your data kidnapped, you could be in big trouble. Ransomware attacks are on the rise, with businesses of all sizes falling victim to this serious con trick. It could be you, so be prepared!
Ransomware operates by locking up your files. To get them back, you’ll either have to pay the ransom or jump through hoops to restore them from a clean backup. There are various ways you can prepare your network to protect against a ransomware attack. The only real fix is to prevent it from happening in the first place.
Backup, Backup, Backup
Frequent backing up is a key strategy for preventing a ransomware attack. With regular backups, you have the upper hand and the bad guys lose their hold over you. It will be a waste of time, and stressful, to restore everything, but at least you will have your data, although you may lose data entered after the last backup.
It can be more complicated than just backing up regularly. Ransomware can also encrypt the data on your backup drive. The solution we recommend is to use a network attached storage (NAS) appliance that has its own unique user account settings. That will mean that only approved users can access the files.
Backups to the cloud are another option, but with the same potential problems. There’s still a risk of your online backup files being over-written with encrypted versions that can be a headache to restore – and that may not even be possible. An online backup service should allow you to restore previous versions of files that the ransomware has not infected.
Dedicated backup software is a must to protect against a ransomware attack. Additional measures are also advisable. For maximum peace of mind, backup your backups and rotate your backup media. If your backup drive is physically disconnected and offline between backups then the scammers can’t tamper with your data.
Network Security Software
As well as backing up, you’ll also need to ensure that your network has a reliable security system to keep it safe from viruses, malware and phishing attacks. The key to preventing ransomware and other malware problems is keeping all the doors closed so that the criminals can’t get in.
End User Education
An important way to prepare your network for ransomware is to educate your users about the threat it poses, how it usually gets into IT systems and what the warning signs are. If your front line defenses fail, and infected emails get through, users will be alert to imminent danger and can prevent a ransomware attack before it launches.
Ransomware is a real threat to any organization. Without your business data your operations could stall, so it pays to secure your network against ransomware. To schedule a free network security assessment in the New Jersey area, contact Quikteks today at (973) 882-4644.