What is a Ransomware Attack?
A ransomware attack is a form of cyber-attack which involves hackers installing malicious software onto a computer or computer system which prevents the user or organisation from accessing their data and carrying out everyday tasks. The hacker(s) will then demand the organisation or user make a payment to them in exchange for the safe return of their data and systems.
Ransomware attacks on businesses throughout the UK continue to grow year on year with the amounts being demanded also growing, costing businesses thousands and in some cases, millions to gain access to their systems and data. This number is only expected to grow throughout 2022, which is why businesses must prepare themselves for the eventuality of a ransomware attack at some point.
How to Prepare for a Ransomware Attack On Your Business
Backup & Recovery
Up-to-date software & systems – software updates are made for a reason. It usually builds upon the features available but also often comes with security fixes, updates, and patches to rectify issues identified in previous versions.
With ransomware attacks on businesses growing, keeping up to date with regular backups is key to being prepared. Regular backups mean you can secure your data up until the last moment before an attack occurs, so you lose a minimal amount of data and can return to normal operations quickly and efficiently.
A lot of businesses we find have overlooked backup and recovery disaster measures until it’s too late. If the worst situation were to happen, you need to ensure your company data is safe and can be recovered as quickly as possible.
Take a look at our case study The Importance of Back Up which explains what happened to one of our customers who fell victim to a ransomware attack.
Anti-virus Software & Firewalls
Keeping your anti-virus software up to date will ensure that threats such as ransomware can be detected on your system which can then be dealt with before causing an issue. Not keeping this software up to date could mean that ransomware goes undetected and could infect other computers, devices, and systems on your network.
While a firewall alone will not stop a ransomware attack from occurring, it can be used to scan incoming potential threats from traffic which could be malicious if allowed access to your system. Keeping your firewall up to date is an essential part of preparing your business for a potential ransomware attack and avoiding a data breach.
Email Security
Email is a delivery mechanism for ransomware and phishing attacks and has become increasingly used. Email phishing attacks often end up as ransomware as a result of gaining access to the system or users' computers. Email security allows you to increase detection rates of incoming emails to ensure that you only ever receive the emails you're supposed to. You can significantly reduce the risk of phishing emails entering your network with advanced security options and even utilise cloud email security to detect and block malicious attacks.
Want to Learn More About How You Can Protect and Prepare Your Business for a Ransomware Attack?
At Syscom, we find that the companies who put their time and resources into planning and preparing for a possible ransomware attack are often able to deter the attack from happening in the first place or at the very least minimise the disruption to their business operations.
We have helped many companies put systems and processes in place to counter malicious attacks on business networks and systems. We have also successfully helped to minimise the risk of potential attacks and in doing so have ensured companies are better prepared should an attack occur. With ransomware attacks on businesses increasing, get in touch to speak to our managed IT support service advisors who can help you get started.
Call on 01384 400 600, email info@syscom.plc.uk, or submit a contact form below.
01384 400 600
