As the world embraces digital technology, the prevalence of the risk posed by cyber-attacks increases. In recent years, ransomware is one type of hack that has become increasingly prevalent. Ransomware is a type of bad software that locks up a person’s files and asks for money in exchange for the key to unlock them.
A recent report indicated that 43 percent of all cyberattacks target small businesses. Small businesses are especially susceptible to ransomware attacks because they frequently lack the financial means to invest in advanced cybersecurity measures. In this article, we will analyze the proliferation of ransomware and offer recommendations on how small businesses may protect themselves against the cyber extortion threat posed by ransomware.
Note: This article was written after discussing with creator of RedNode, that offer Various cybersecurity services such Vulnerability Assessment, Penetration Testing, and Red Teaming.
The Rise of Ransomware Attacks
Over the previous few years, ransomware assaults have grown increasingly commonplace. Around 300 million ransomware assaults were carried out in 2020, representing a 62% increase compared to the previous year. The COVID-19 epidemic has only worsened the problem, as cybercriminals have taken advantage of the turmoil and uncertainty caused by the pandemic to conduct additional assaults.
Attacks using ransomware are so successful in part because they are simple to execute. This is also one of the reasons they are so powerful. On the dark web, cybercriminals can purchase a program known as ransomware as a service (RaaS), which gives them access to all the tools they require to carry out an attack. RaaS is sometimes offered for sale on a subscription basis, making it available to even the most inexperienced online criminals.
How to Safeguard Your Company From Ransomware Attacks
Regularly Backup Your Data: Maintain Frequent Backups of Your Data Maintaining frequent backups is one of the most effective techniques to defend yourself from ransomware attacks. If your data is backed up, you can avoid paying the ransom by restoring it from the most recent backup.
Implement Security Best Practices: Adopt Industry-Recognized Best Practices in Security The use of industry-recognized best practices in security, such as using robust passwords, two-factor authentication, and employee education on spotting and avoiding phishing schemes, can assist in the prevention of ransomware attacks.
Ensure Your Software Is Always Up to Date: Ensuring that your software is always up to date with the most recent security patches and upgrades can assist in protecting against known vulnerabilities that ransomware may attempt to exploit.
Use Antivirus Software: Use Antivirus Software Using antivirus software can assist in detecting ransomware attacks and preventing such assaults.
Do Penetration Testing: Penetration testing is a method that can assist in finding weaknesses in your systems that ransomware attackers could use to gain access to your data and hold it for ransom. You can better defend your company against ransomware attacks if you identify the vulnerabilities and then take steps to correct those flaws.
Conclusion
Proprietors of small businesses need to take precautions against ransomware attacks since this type of cybercrime is becoming an increasingly prevalent risk to companies of this size. Small businesses can lessen the likelihood of becoming victims of ransomware attacks by training their workforce, making financial investments in preventative cybersecurity measures, and collaborating with a cybersecurity company. Small businesses looking to safeguard themselves against cyber extortion can rely on RedNode as a reliable partner.
