Cyber attacks are becoming a serious security threat for businesses more and more every single day. Cyber attackers absolutely love using malicious software to get what they want from business owners. Ransomware is a type of malicious software that breaks into a business’s system and encrypts important data which then allows cyber attackers to demand ransom to release the data back into the hands of the business owners. Since these programs are easily able to enter even the most protected and high-profile systems, both large and small businesses are finding themselves falling victim to these crimes. However, there are steps you can take to protect yourself from this difficult situation. Here are a few tips that can give your business that extra layer of cybersecurity starting today.
- Do Not Pay the Ransom
While your main concern will definitely be the safe return of all your important data, the last thing you should ever do in these sorts of situations is pay the ransom being demanded. It’s important to remember that you’re dealing with serious criminals and there’s absolutely no way to guarantee that they’ll actually give you back your data even if you do pay the ransom. There’s a good chance they’ll continue asking for even more money. In reality, the only thing you’ll be doing by paying them what they ask is providing them with what they need to continue their endeavours and scam as many businesses as they can.
- Inform Employees of Proper Protocol
One of the most popular ways for ransomware to enter into a system is by having these criminals send emails to your employees claiming to be from your IT department and asking for personal information that can help them break in. Make sure you express to every member of your team how important it is that they don’t provide any of this information under any circumstances and that should they receive this kind of communication they should report it to a supervisor as quickly as possible. A business should always consider hiring the services of a reputable cyber security firm like Cytelligence which can offer advice specific to your industry and situation.
- Invest in Quality Antivirus Software
Another important step in protecting your business from this sort of cybercrime will be to invest in a high-quality antivirus software that’s designed specifically to target these kinds of attacks. These programs will be able to separate the malicious emails from standard customer and partner communications, protecting yourself and your employees from falling prey to scammers and also promoting productivity by removing a wide range of unnecessary communications.
- Keep Your System Updated
Most all software and operating systems need to be updated constantly to continue running in prime condition. When you allow your system to fall behind, you’re putting it at serious risk for malicious software to make their way in and easily gain access to some of your most important files. By taking the time to update accordingly, you’ll be giving yourself just one more layer of protection that could make a world of difference when the time comes.
