What is a ransomware attack?
Ransomware is a type of malware that blocks access to the victim’s computer system, encrypting all their files and demanding payment for decryption keys. The ransom demands are typically made in Bitcoin, a cryptocurrency that is much harder for law enforcement agencies to trace than traditional currency.
The most common type of ransomware attacks are those which target Windows users through malicious email attachments or malicious websites. Once you click on these attachments or visit the sites, spyware will be installed on your device which then locks down your files with encryption software. In some cases, hackers have been known to hold entire computers hostage by infecting servers at large companies – this means that even if you pay the ransom and get your personal devices back online again, there’s no guarantee anyone else will be able to work until they get their systems fixed too!
How do ransomware attacks infect systems?
Ransomware attacks are typically carried out by infecting a system via email attachments, drive-by downloads, malicious ads, fake software updates, fake software downloads and malicious websites.
The most common method of infection is via malicious emails with links or attachments that download malware onto the victim’s computer. In some cases the attackers may use a phishing technique to trick users into opening an infected attachment in an email or clicking on a link that initiates the ransomware attack.
In other cases they may use malvertising to infect victims’ computers through advertisements displayed on legitimate sites. These ads can contain JavaScript code which redirects users’ browsers to another website hosting malicious code that then downloads malware onto their systems without their knowledge.
Multiple types of malware have been known to spread themselves this way including ransomware such as CryptoLocker and Locky; adware such as Zlob; spyware like Win32/Agent; bots like Andromeda and Zeus botnet; banking Trojans like Dridex; cryptocurrency mining software such as Monero Miner or JSEcoin Mining Software (as well as others); trojan downloaders for further payloads; remote access tools (RATs) such as Poison Ivy RAT
What to do if you get hit by a ransomware attack?
If you get hit by a ransomware attack, we recommend the following steps:
- Don’t pay the ransom. If you do pay, there’s no guarantee that you will actually be able to retrieve your data. In fact, some criminals go so far as to double-charge victims who pay twice.
- Don’t buy a decryption tool from hackers. We’ve seen many instances where these tools are scammy and won’t work anyway! They’re just looking for another way for their malware to continue spreading across networks and infecting more devices at every chance they can get—so why help them?
- If all else fails, don’t lose hope. You may still have a chance at recovering your files if they haven’t been overwritten yet (or erased). Contact us using this form if that’s the case!
How can you protect your business from ransomware attacks?
Luckily, there are several ways you can protect your business from ransomware attacks. To start, use antivirus software and a cloud backup solution. You should also implement an intrusion detection system (IDS), firewall and host-based intrusion prevention system (HIPS).
These strategies will help keep your company safe from malware and hackers but it’s important to take other measures as well. For example, you should make sure that employees always use strong passwords and update them regularly. In addition, you might consider using a network access control system and patch management system as well as user behavior analytics software (UBA) so that employees know what they’re doing online at all times.
You need to be proactive in protecting yourself and your business to avoid a ransomware attack.
To protect your business from ransomware attacks, you should:
- Use a managed service provider to handle security for your network and data.
- Keep all software up to date and patch any vulnerabilities that are found in the software you use. Also make sure that any third-party plug-ins or applications are up to date as well.
- Use firewalls and anti-virus software on all computers connected to the internet to block unauthorized access attempts from outside users.
- Install spam filters so no unsolicited emails get through onto employee computers or mobile devices where they could contain malware attachments containing ransomware viruses that can infect your systems once opened by unsuspecting employees who think they’re receiving important messages from colleagues or clients.
Find the right managed service provider to protect you from ransomware.
Ransomware attacks can be damaging to your business, and it’s important that you take measures to protect yourself from them. The best way to protect yourself from these attacks is by having a managed service provider that offers both prevention and recovery services. This can help you avoid being hit by such an attack in the first place, but it will also allow you access to a wide range of tools that can help you recover from one if it happens anyway.
If you are interested in a managed service provider but are looking for more information, contact us for a consultation: