Stop Ransomware: How to Protect Your Network from Ransomware

1800 Office SOlutions Team member - Elie Vigile
1800 Team

You really need to learn how to stop ransomware. Could your business afford to lose $133,000 on a whim? Of course not! But this has been a reality for more than a few unfortunate businesses.

In fact, $133,000 was the average cost of a ransomware attack as of 2017 and that cost is going up! That’s no small change for a small or mid-sized business.

What can your organization do to stop ransomware? Keep reading, this guide shares solutions to prevent, mitigate, and recover from attacks.

Stop Ransomware

What Is Ransomware?

Ransomware is a cyberattack that restricts access to your network and/or data. It locks data access through encryption and extorts its owner(s).

A ransomware attacker may target:

The attacker then provides contact information so a business may negotiate its ransom. This comes down to paying to unlock the data. Or, having to deal with systems that may never become accessible again.

How to Stop Ransomware

The thought of your business extorted because of ransomware is frightening. Luckily, preventing ransomware attacks isn’t too difficult even with limited resources. So, apply each of the following tips to strengthen your security.

Restrict Access and IT Solutions
The office temp doesn’t need unbridled access to the whole system. Nor does the CEO need an admin account to complete their duties. Access restrictions through user permissions and physical barriers can and will prevent attacks.

Businesses could tap managed IT solutions as part of their security protocol.

Managed IT could set up and track network activity on your behalf. The services also include on-site and remote support when things go awry.

Train Employees and Future-Proof

Knowledge is power with cybersecurity and ransomware protection.

Your proactive actions could include:

  • Cybersecurity training and workshops
  • Attending conferences to stay up on tactics and trends
    Conduct a security audit of the team and find the weakest link. Then, offer resources to close security gaps. Likewise, create a culture of security and interest these attacks. This future-proofs security protocols and tactics.

Backups, Backups, and Backups

Ransomware isn’t as much of an “if” but a “when”. You’ll want system backups to make a speedy recovery from an attack.

  • Use on-site and off-site backup solutions
  • Have pros on a retainer to act on your behalf
  • Audit data authenticity as often as you can

Backups are a precaution but it also keeps threats relevant to the operations. You aren’t as complacent because you’re always on guard.

Refine Your Vetting Process

Harden security by creating an extensive vetting process for business resources.

The vetting could be as simple as copier equipment leasing or user permissions with their PC. Or, go as far as vetting 3rd-party services and their access to your business data. The point is ensuring every datapoint is, and remains, clean.

Use Robust Security Tools

Cover the basics with antivirus and antimalware programs. Then, expand coverage through anti-ransomware software solutions.

Invest in these, too:

  • Strong hardware and software firewalls
  • Encrypted password managers
  • Latest software patches and updates
  • You could consider taking parts of the business offline. Use face-to-face communication or a private, in-house network if necessary.

A Danger for Every Business

Ransomware is on the rise and is costing more monetary damages than ever before. Learning how to stop ransomware is a necessity in today’s connected business environment.

We’ve outlined a few tactics to make ransomware less of a threat. Now it’s your turn to take action before these attacks become a real problem.

Need help navigating cybersecurity? Need access to industry professionals at a moment’s notice? Get in touch and let’s talk about our IT services, today!

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