Ransomware attacks have become one of the most common and devastating cyber threats facing businesses today. In this part of our series, we’ll explore how ransomware works, real-world examples, and practical steps your organisation can take to prevent these attacks.
How Ransomware Works
Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts a victim’s data and demands payment for its release. The attack typically starts with a phishing email or an exploited vulnerability, and once the ransomware is installed, it locks the organisation out of its own systems.
As discussed during our recent Cyber Security Awareness event, Martin Male shared the example of small local accounting firm, which was hit by a ransomware attack that shut down operations for almost a week. Fortunately, having proper backups allowed them to recover quickly, but not all businesses are as well-prepared.
Practical Steps to Defend Against Ransomware
- Backups – Ensure you have regular, tested backups of your critical data.
- Patch Management – Keep software and systems updated to prevent vulnerabilities from being exploited.
- Email Security – Train employees to recognise phishing emails and implement email security tools.
- Access Control – Implement the principle of least privilege, ensuring users only have access to what they need.
- Endpoint Protection – Use tools like Fortinet’s Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) to monitor and block malicious activity.
Ransomware can be incredibly damaging, but with the right preparations, businesses can greatly reduce their risk of falling victim to an attack.
Cybersecurity threats are ever-evolving, but with the right combination of education, process, and expert support, businesses can protect themselves from potentially devastating attacks. If you missed the event, Intergence is offering a free breach awareness report—a valuable resource to help you understand your current vulnerabilities and start taking steps toward stronger security.
For more information on how Intergence can support your cybersecurity needs, contact us today.