Ransomware is a type of malware that prevents or limits users from accessing their system. This type of malware forces its victims to pay the ransom through certain online payment methods in order to grant access to their systems, or to get their data back. In many cases ransomware encrypts files (called Cryptolocker, Teslacrypt, Locky. Other ransomware use TOR to hide C&C communications (called CTB Locker).
What Can You Do to Help Prevent Ransomware?
1: Do Not open ANY email attachments unless you are 100% sure the attachment is legit. When in doubt call the sender!! (Same goes for links.)
Ransomware has continued to evolve over the years, however one of the most common ways businesses contract ransomware is through opening bogus attachments to emails as well as clicking on website links. Files such as (zip, pdf, doc, docx, xls, xlsx, etc.) are very common methods that cyber criminals use to transport ransomware. Please STOP and review the email before opening. When in doubt call Design Data… we are here to help.
2: Ransomware is time sensitive, alert Design Data immediately if you think you may be a victim.
Before you even call Design Data, unplug / disconnect your computer from the network immediately. Once you are disconnected, call Design Data and we will investigate. The sooner we know the better chance we have.
3: Only browse well-known, trusted websites.
Ransomware, as part of its evolution, can also hide itself in website banners and ads, which adds an additional layer of complexity to protecting networks. Even though many organizations use web filtering, it is imperative that all end users use best practices when browsing. For more information please call Design Data.
What is Design Data Doing to Prevent Ransomware?
1: A Layered Approach – There is NO Single Fix.
Ransomware is a constant cat and mouse game, as new variants of ransomware are constantly being released. The best approach is a layered security approach which includes, Anti-Virus, Firewall Threat Protection, Content Filtering, Email Filtering and many others. Design Data is also constantly learning and comprehending the latest trends and tools available to HELP give you the best opportunity to avoid becoming a victim.
There is NO one singular tool that stops ransomware (*we wish there was) and according to many of the larger security firms, it appears that ransomware is something we are going to be dealing with for years to come.
2: Backups are Critical (and not just for servers.)
According to many studies about 60% of business data resides on workstations and not on the server. Everyone understands the importance of saving data on the server however the reality is, that is not always the case.
The single most important way to protect yourself from ransomware is to have a solid backup solution in place for your critical devices, so you are able to restore your data and move on. If your computer becomes infected with ransomware, there is NO decrypting files…unless you want to pay cyber criminals for the key (and hope that they play nice.)
**If you have any critical workstations that you would like to discuss, PLEASE CALL us today and we can review backup options (717) 295-9712.
Where Do We Go from Here?
Design Data Corporation understands the importance of your data and how critical it is to keeping your network safe. Your Business cannot run without your Technology Infrastructure and we take that responsibility personally.
We are actively talking with industry leaders throughout the country to make sure we are constantly up to date on the latest trends / tools and techniques to help keep you safe. Even though there is no “magic bullet” we want to make sure we are providing real world practical solutions at all times.
We will provide constant updates and best practices in our Monthly Newsletter (sent out the first Friday of each month, if anyone in your organization is not receiving the newsletter that you think should, please click the link here and provide their email address and we will add them to the list.)
mtroccoli@DesignDataCorp.com (this is a safe link, this is not a test!)
Thank you for taking the time to read through this email as we want to make sure you are informed. Please feel free to share the critical portions of this message with your entire team, as the more informed and educated your team is, the better chance of staying safe.
As always, if you have any questions please call Design Data at 717-295-9712.
Have a Fantastic (*and Safe) Day!!
Source: Design Data – PLEASE READ
