How do I protect my data against ransomware attacks?

To ensure that your data is kept safe it requires for you to take proactive steps to boost your cybersecurity whether you are working from home or in your office.

External threats are becoming more apparent in today’s advanced technology world, meaning that it is now more important than ever to take action and be aware of the risks that come with using technology. In 2019 the UK was the second most targeted and attacked country in the world causing a total of £365 million of losses to UK businesses. (Serbus Group)

What is ransomware?

This is a type of malware (malicious software) that targets an individual taking private data and preventing the victim from being able to access it through encryption unless a ransom is paid.

How does it work?

One of the most common ways that ransomware accesses a computer is through phishing spam. These emails will often hold attachments that resemble a trusted file. Once the targeted victim downloads and opens the file, the malware will begin taking over the computer. Many of these malware’s have a built-in tool that allows them to gain access into private documents and files through masking themselves in order to gain administrative access ­– ­ some of the more aggressive types won’t even need to do that.

Once the malware gains access to your data it can then encrypt some, if not all, of the victim’s files. Many attackers will claim to be a type of law enforcement, demanding the victim to pay a ‘’fine’’ in order to regain control and access to their computer. Some attackers will threaten to release or ‘’dox’’ the victim’s private information unless a ransom is paid.

How do I protect myself from ransomware?

1. Ensure that you regularly back-up your data and files. Storing your information in a cloud storage system will not only allow for you to back your data up but it will also encrypt it and therefore keep it safe & secure from hackers and malicious attacks. Read more about our cloud solutions here.
2. Keep your antivirus software up to date. Although this may seem like an obvious thing to do, many smaller organisations neglect this step to prevent these sorts of malicious attacks. Antivirus software’s are designed to monitor strange behaviour and take preventative measures to keeping your computer secure.
3. Scan and filter emails even before they enter your inbox. This is the best way to stop any ransomware emails with malicious links or attachments from arriving in your inbox and attacking your computer.
4. Establish a strategic plan in the event of a ransomware attack occurring. Implementing preventive measures is equally as important as having a recovery plan in place. You are then provided with the steps that need to be taken to efficiently deal with a serious situation of this level.
5. Train and inform staff on ways to keep their data safe along with how to recognise and report a potential ransomware infected email or link.

 

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It is important to bear in mind that if you become a victim of ransomware to stay calm and report this to your IT department or IT solutions company who will help you regain access of computer and remove the malware. Even more importantly do not pay the ransom.

For more information on keeping your data safe and using secure cloud solutions visit our page here or speak with our IT technicians today by calling us on 0121 289 4477 or email us at info@solutions4it.co.uk