Ransomware – What You Need to Know
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Ransomware is malicious software that threatens to withhold or publish sensitive material unless a ransom is paid. Ransomware attacks can range from simple system locks to more complex encryption extortion.
Typically the hackers demand a digital currency, such as Bitcoin, so that tracing the ransom is incredibly difficult or even impossible. Ransomware can bring your business to a halt and even threaten to financially ruin your company. What can you do to protect your business?
BACKUP, BACKUP, AND MORE BACKUP
Having local and remote backups in place within your infrastructure has never been more important. While local backups may already be infected, offsite remote backups can be checked for infection before your data is restored. Entirely offline backups of sensitive information, like external hard drives, flash drives, and other devices with no connection to the internet, can definitely come in handy if properly stored and frequently updated.
RAPID RESPONSE
Act fast when the first sign of ransomware is discovered. Disconnect all infected machines from your businesses network. Run scans of antivirus software on PCs even when there are no signs of infection. And lastly, call your IT Service Provider as soon as possible.
KEEP ON YOUR TOES!
Caution can be an effective tool in preventing ransomware from attacking you. Be sure that the email attachments you open are from a trusted sender. Double check the sender’s email address. Be weary of potentially dangerous websites. If possible, check to see where a link is going to take you before clicking it. Is your security software up to date? Those update pop-ups can be annoying, but they can potentially save your business time and money.
DATA BREACHES CAN HAPPEN TO BUSINESSES OF ANY SIZE
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