Don’t Fall Victim: 8 Tips for Protecting Your Business Against Ransomware Attacks 

Businesses of all sizes are at risk for ransomware attacks. In this blog post, we will discuss how these attacks work and how businesses can protect themselves. We will also provide tips on what to do if your business is attacked. Ransomware is a type of malware that locks users out of their computer or encrypts their data until a ransom is paid. These attacks are on the rise, and it’s important to be prepared! 

Ransomware attacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated. In 2021, North American businesses lost an estimated $8 billion to ransomware attacks, and that number is expected to grow in 2022. Ransom attacks have been on the rise in Canada, with many large and small organizations falling victim to these costly attacks.  

How do ransomware attacks work? 

Ransomware attacks usually start with a phishing email. The email will contain an attachment or link that, when clicked, will install the malware on the victim’s computer. Once the malware is installed, it will lock the user out of their computer or encrypt their files. The attacker will then demand a ransom be paid, usually in Bitcoin, to release the control back to the organization. At this point data confidentiality will already be compromised and unreversible. This can be a devastating blow to any business and can often lead to permanent damages. 

How can businesses protect themselves? 

There are a few things businesses can do to protect themselves against ransomware attacks: 

1. Train employees on how to spot phishing emails and never click on links or attachments from unknown senders. 

2. Ensure all your end points are protected with an updated antivirus.

3. Use strong spam filters to block suspicious emails. 

4. Keep all software up to date, including security updates and operating system patching. 

5. Implement an edge firewall and if required a DMZ.

6. Regularly back up data offline (offsite or Cloud) so that it can’t be encrypted by the malware. 

7. Restrict access to sensitive data and limit who has admin privileges. 

8. Disable macros in Microsoft Office files. 

What should you do if your business is attacked? 

If your business is attacked by ransomware, the first thing you should do is disconnect from the internet and power down your computers to prevent the spread of the malware. You should then contact a professional service company which can help you assess the damage and assist with recovery. Do not pay the ransom! This will only encourage attackers and does not guarantee that you will get your data back. 

By following these tips, you can help protect your business against ransomware attacks. If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact us. We’re here to help!