No matter the size or the type of business that you own, you are at risk for ransomware attacks. According to the FBI, ransomware is the fastest growing cyber threat, and no network is safe. If you’re not taking steps to protect your network from ransomware and malware, then you are simply tempting fate.
FBI ransomware statistics
An FBI report on ransomware statistics shows that since 2015, there has been a 300% increase in ransomware attacks. As of January 1st, 2016 there have been 4000 ransomware attacks per day! It’s time for every business owner to start being proactive in protecting their networks from ransomware.
How ransomware can disrupt your business
Cybercriminals will exploit any vulnerabilities to your network to infiltrate and hold your data for ransom. But, there are very simple ransomware solutions that every business owner or private person can take to protect themselves. A ransomware attack can cause the loss of sensitive, proprietary information, shut down your network, shut down your services, disrupt business, and blemish your reputation. Clients want to know that their private and sensitive information is secure. A ransomware attack can cost you existing clients, and regaining the trust of the public to rebuild your client base can be difficult.
Ransomware prevention
The best defense against ransomware is a good offense. Don’t think about what you will do when you are attacked, think about what you will do to prevent the attack from happening in the first place.
Take proactive measures to prevent cybercriminals from attacking your network.
- Educate your staff on recognizing suspicious emails and links that could be malicious and compromise your network.
- Incorporate SPAM and phishing filters in your email to weed out and recognize the potentially malicious content.
- Use firewalls, anti-virus, and anti-malware programs to protect your network.
- Manage the use of your network and be smart about who has access.
- Update programs regularly. Old versions of software can leave you vulnerable.
- Implement a secure data backup and recovery plan.
What to do if your network is under attack
Recently, CDOT was attacked by ransomware. Once they detected a threat, their first step was to isolate the virus and remove the infected computers from the network. This should be standard procedure for any business that is under attack. The second step is to notify authorities of an attack so that you can potentially locate the source of the ransomware attack and catch the perpetrators. The third and final step is to ensure that your data backup hasn’t been compromised and then simply recover your data.
Data recovery plan
Having a secure data backup plan for your business is the key to outsmarting cybercriminals. If proactive preventative measures fail, then your safety net is a secure data backup plan. By backing up your data to a secure server will allow you to recover your data and your network without paying a ransom.
One Point Sync offer ransomware solutions to small and midsize businesses in Denver. Get the proactive ransomware security tools to protect you from ransomware attacks, as well as, tools for recovering your data in the event of an attack. Get a quote from a ransomware solutions expert.
