7 Ways to Prevent Your Business from Succumbing to Ransomware

Ransomware attacks have become a widespread phenomenon that affects various businesses across the globe.

The news of yet another business succumbing to this cyber threat, every other day, makes it vital for every business to improve on their existing IT security measures to avoid ransomware attacks.

At Redpalm, we have years of experience in providing IT security solutions and services for different businesses. That’s why, we’ve put together a short guide on what ransomware is and how to protect your business against it.

Let’s take a look!

What Is Ransomware And How Does It Affect A Business?

Ransomware is a type of malicious software that‘s designed to block users from accessing their data unless a sum of money is paid in exchange. This cyber attack is called ‘ransomware’ as until a ransom is paid, users won’t be able to unlock the encrypted files.

When infected with ransomware, all files stored on the PC and other devices your organisation uses become encrypted. If your business experiences a ransomware attack, your users will be unable to access the files they need which causes their daily operations to go on hold. 

To deal with such cyber attacks, every organisation needs to be prepared with the right ransomware protection measures to ensure that your data stays protected. 

7 Tips To Avoid Ransomware Attacks

If you’re unaware of the steps you need to take to avoid ransomware attacks, your business can suffer losses. 

Here are a few ways to avoid ransomware attacks and safeguard your business against such threats:

1. Monitor Your Emails To Identify Red Flags

A suspicious email is easy to identify as long all employees are aware of the different signs they need to look out for. 

Phishing emails have many indicators, but certain cybercriminals can pose as someone from within the organisation and take advantage of an employee.

Many times, in such links or files, there will be an error in the characters used that make them easy to spot. If anyone from the company receives a suspicious email with an attachment or link from someone they work with, they should check with the relevant coworker before opening the attachment.

2. Invest In Robust Cyber Security Solutions

Many organisations are under the assumption that an antivirus is enough to keep the business and its data secure. However, this is far from true. 

Criminals no longer use simple tactics to target a business, they have sophisticated methods and techniques that can render any business inoperable. To avoid ransomware attacks, having a robust cyber security solution as your ransomware defence is a must.

Working with an experienced IT solution provider like Redpalm can help you strengthen your existing infrastructure to maintain business continuity and keep your data safe. To find out more about how we can help, get in touch with us today!

3. Invest In Backup And Disaster Recovery Solutions

If your organisation or employees are a victim of a ransomware attack, there’s a chance that you may lose all the encrypted data that they have a hold over, even if you pay the ransom. In such cases, a lack of backup or an absence of a disaster recovery solution can cease operations for your business.

Since paying the ransom is not advisable as it funds cyber attacks, making sure you’re prepared with the necessary solutions can help your business continue. With these solutions, regularly backing up your data is essential to keep your data up to date.

4. Employee Training And Awareness

Employees may not have enough training or basic knowledge on identifying threats and avoiding ransomware attacks. With processes being introduced or updated regularly, a lack of awareness amongst your employees can hold them back from identifying suspicious activities.

Every organisation needs to prioritise training their employees and other staff to ensure they’re aware of what they need to do in case they encounter threats.

Through regular training and testing, every employee can be up to date with the best security practices that safeguard the organisation.

5. Configure Access Controls

If you want to protect your business against ransomware, you need to actively manage who can access your information and employ the principle of least privilege (PoLP). PoLP helps your business avoid ransomware attacks as you only provide minimal access to files, programs, and accounts to those who need it. 

Proper identity and access management ensures that only those who are authorised to view something can view it. It also reduces the risk of insider threats and prevents hackers from getting too far into your system. 

6. Set Up Application Whitelisting

Application whitelisting, also known as allowlisting, offers ransomware protection by only allowing trusted applications, files, and processes to be run. It ensures that unauthorised software, such as those that could deliver ransomware, is unable to execute. 

While blacklisting prevents undesirable programs from running, whitelisting ensures that only programs that have been clearly permitted can run. 

7. Keep All Systems and Software Updated

To effectively protect your business against ransomware, you need to keep your operating system, antivirus, web browser and other software updated to the latest available versions. 

Malware, viruses, and ransomware are constantly evolving and producing new variants. These variants can easily bypass old security features, so you need to make sure everything is patched and up-to-date. 

Contact Redpalm For Robust Cyber Security Measures

Now that you’re aware of the different ways to avoid ransomware attacks, you can effectively protect your business against ransomware and keep your data secure. 

If you’re looking to strengthen your existing security and IT infrastructure, Redpalm is here to help. 

As a leading Managed Services Provider (MSP), we provide various IT solutions and services for organisations to improve their environment and ensure business continuity. 

We also offer services such as proactive monitoring, IT user support, vulnerability assessment, IT audits and health checks to strengthen your business’ defences. 

To learn more about our services, click here or contact us to schedule an appointment today!