How to Prevent Ransomware
Ransomware is a real threat. And, this criminal activity is not just targeting high profile victims such as hospitals, schools, and police departments anymore. Now it is finding its way into home computers, and small- to medium-sized businesses.
Still a little unsure as to what exactly ransomware is?
It’s software that uses encryption to hold your data for ransom. The purpose of this is to extort money from the organisations which are being held ransom, with promises of restoring your data once payment has been made.
How does it happen?
It’s like any other computer virus, really. It finds its way onto your computer by finding a hole in your security or by tricking you into installing it yourself. It has become very popular and lucrative for criminals over the years.
How can you prevent it from happening to you?
Use a file storage solution which protects against ransomware by detecting attacks, stopping them and letting you roll back your files to previously unaffected versions.
Don’t give personal/business information over email, phone, or instant messages. These criminals can also trick your employees into installing ransomware by claiming to be from IT. Always double-check with your IT department if you think something smells fishy.
Use reputable antivirus software and a firewall – there is a lot of fake software out there, some of which is Ransomware itself! Keeping your software and firewall up to date is also very important.
Make sure you have content scanning and filtering on your mail servers. These can then be scanned for known threats and block all bad attachments.
All your regular software and IT systems must be up-to-date, and regular ‘patching’ of vulnerable software is important – it will help prevent serious issues.
If you’re travelling and working away from the office, make sure your IT department knows and has given you information about using public wireless Internet – as you will need to work on a secure network.
But don’t worry too much, because, with the above-mentioned prevention tips, ransomware can be protected against.
Cloudbox offers fantastic cybersecurity options ranging from: antivirus, malware protection and website browsing controls, to file storage ransomware protection and multi-layer email security for fraud prevention.
We are on it! Give CLOUDBOX a call to find out how to protect your business.
To find out how you can get in on the magic of CLOUD STORAGE, make contact today!
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