Ransomware Attackers Have a New Trick

Ransomware groups are making the front page. Considering the most recent cyberattack on Colonial Pipeline, ransomware attackers are are on everyone's radar. Every company and organization, big or small, are ensuring that their information is safe, because no matter the size of a business, nobody is completely invisible. 

"Municipal governments, universities and private businesses have spent more than $144 million responding to the biggest ransomware attacks of 2020 (so far), spending on everything from rebuilding networks and restoring backups to paying the hackers ransom." (CRN.com) 

Ransomware groups may have a new trick up their sleeve. As many of us are aware, "Ransomware is malware that employs encryption to hold a victim’s information at ransom. A user or organization’s critical data is encrypted so that they cannot access files, databases, or applications. A ransom is then demanded to provide access." Recently ransomware attackers are striking businesses with double encryption attacks. This essentially means that when attackers collect information from a company, they will hold the information ransom under two separate types of ransomware. Therefore, data is only encrypted once, but the victim will need two separate decryption codes in order to unlock everything. How can you make sure your business is protected against ransomware?

Know How to Prevent Ransomware Attacks

If you fall victim to a ransomware attack and your data is encrypted, you’ll likely need to restore from your most recent backup to regain access to the data stored on your phone, tablet, or PC. Use security software, clean your disk drive, or reboot your phone in Safe Mode. McAfee, the world’s largest dedicated security technology company, suggests the following tips to prevent ransomware attacks:

• Back up your files - This will enable you to wipe your disk drive and then restore your data using your backed up files.
• Use caution - Don’t click on links or open attachments from people you don’t know. Remember, ransomware may look completely harmless – appearing as a PDF or Excel document with the extension hidden.
• Use web filtering (web advisor) - Ransomware spreads via malicious websites. Web filtering can help with that.
• Install comprehensive security software - Make sure you use a comprehensive IT security suite to protect all devices connected to your business – including phones and tablets.

Remember that network security is a top priority for businesses, and every business has specific needs as they relate to security and protection. Talk to Apogee IT Services if you have questions about protecting your business. It’s always better to protect and prevent, rather than manage a crisis later.

If you would like to do a little research on your own, our Comprehensive Guide to Managed Services will give you a better idea of how a managed service provider fits with your business.

Source: Wired.com