Ransomware has made internet users around the globe shake in fear for more than 25 years. Plainly speaking, ransomware is a form of malware that uses encryption to block the target’s information. Once the attack is successful, cyber-criminals demand a ransom to provide access back to the original user — hence its name. Put simply, it’s a form of extortion.
With encryption so in vogue at the moment, ransomware is growing more and more complex. However, there are still ways to protect yourself from this kind of attack. In this post, we’ll walk you through the best methods for protecting against ransomware in 2022.
Backup your data in different places
It seems obvious, but that doesn’t make it less important. Being locked out of your files or systems can be devastating to a business, and not only because it could bring your company’s activities to a halt. A blocked system without a backup will immediately put you in a weak negotiation position with the cyber-criminals, who will demand a hefty payment.
As usual, prevention is key. In the unfortunate event that you are hit by ransomware, having secure backups ensures that the attack is not a critical blow to your business. It’s best practice to have several backups in different unrelated locations – for example, in the cloud and other off-site locations.
Use a safe VPN
With remote working taking over, employees are increasingly relying on cafés or co-working spaces to get a break from their own homes. Unfortunately, this popular practice is as dangerous as it is convenient, as connecting to a public Wi-Fi network makes your computer more vulnerable to attacks. However, you can reduce the risk by implementing the use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) across your company.
And you shouldn’t stop there. Cyber-criminals have got more creative in recent years, using VPN servers to start ransomware attacks. Make sure your VPN is properly protected by enabling multi-factor authentication and changing login credentials every few months.
Only allow trusted applications
The system administrator ought to ensure that all applications running on company devices are 100% trustworthy. As an Administrator you can also set rules that forbid non-admin users from installing applications. On top of that you can use a next-generation anti-virus tool to identify any apps or processes running that could be potentially harmful.
Build email protections
This is one of the simplest yet most effective methods for protecting against ransomware in 2022. Keep your firewalls up to date, establish automatic scans of all emails and notify users of out-of-network emails to prevent them from clicking on them.
Prepare for an attack
When it comes to cyber security, you need to put yourself in the worst-case scenario. This is particularly true of ransomware attacks, which have hit multinational companies with disastrous consequences. For example, Renault-Nissan lost control over their industrial processes in 2017.
The best way to prepare for a potential ransomware attack is to stage one. Learn about your weaknesses by arranging a mock ransomware attack with a trusted cyber security company.
