There has been a significant increase in cyberattacks on organizations in recent years. Ransomware attacks are the most common attacks that cause huge damage and can act as a big setback for an organization. These attacks can be targeted at organizations of all sizes by deploying ransomware in the organization’s systems. The attackers can gain access to the critical data of an organization and hold it for ransom. They can also delete or leak the data causing a huge loss for an organization.
However, there are many security measures that can help prevent and combat these attacks.
Combating ransomware at the Workplace
Ransomware is usually deployed through phishing attacks and can be prevented by avoiding these attacks. Here are some ways you can combat ransomware in your workspace.
Maintain regularly updated software
To avoid vulnerabilities, it is best to always use the latest version of all software. Ensure that all the systems including the computers used by employees have the latest versions of antimalware, antivirus, and firewalls enabled at all times. All other software used by employees must also be running in the updated versions. It helps avoid gaps that attackers can use to target.
Back up the data regularly
Having a complete backup ensures that your data is protected even in case of an attack. However, it can be difficult to manage data backups with many employees working remotely. It is best to encourage employees to regularly back up the data they work on and make it a practice. The data should be backed up in spaces where it can’t be reached in case of an attack. If you primarily back up data on the cloud, have another backup offline, and vice versa.
Stay safe on the internet
Safe internet practices can significantly reduce the chances of a ransomware attack. Ransomware is usually deployed when you click on malicious links or attachments. It can also spread by opening unsafe websites, plugging unknown USB devices into the system, or downloading free software from the internet. Filtering emails is a great way to avoid accidentally deploying ransomware through phishing attacks. It can limit potential malicious emails and using enterprise-grade solutions can help whitelist and blacklist emails. Attachments in the mail should also be scanned before opening to avoid opening any attachments that download ransomware into the system. You can also use software that blocks attachments with suspicious extensions.
Educate employees and test them
Most ransomware attacks are targeted at employees and depend on unaware employees to let them into the system. Educating employees and training them to avoid mistakes that can cause ransomware attacks is a simple yet highly effective way to avoid an attack. The employees must be able to identify potentially malicious emails and report them. They should also be trained on the latest threats and other prevention measures. After training them, employees should also be tested to ensure they understand safe practices, these tests can be conducted by sending phishing emails and having mock social engineering scams to understand how well-prepared the employees are to handle ransomware threats.
