Ransomware Attack: Top 3 Do’s and Don’ts of Cyber Security

Over the last few years, Malicious software that is used to hold confidential files and data for ransom has become very popular. The purpose...

Over the last few years, Malicious software that is used to hold confidential files and data for ransom has become very popular. The purpose of such software is to extract money from the cyber attack victims with assurances of restoring encrypted data. In 2019, ransomware attacks affected the businesses related to healthcare, manufacturing, finance, among many others. Today, thousands of hundreds of systems are being hacked, and the number of attacks has just increased.

Most companies abide by paying the ransom to retrieve their data from hackers. However, it is vital to know that paying the ransom should never be the solution. If you are also a victim of ransomware or just want to avoid ransomware attacks, there are quite a few things you need to do. Similarly, there are a lot of precautions you can take to prevent these attacks. In this article, we have mentioned both do’s and don’ts that you need to know. If you want to achieve an optimal level of security from the internet, be sure to check them out.

3 Do's of Ransomware

Do: Have Your Data Backup

First things first, having a backup of your data can save your day when you deal with a ransomware attack. In this type of cyber attack, criminals gain access to all your confidential information that you will not be able to access without paying the ransom money.

Therefore, it is crucial because even if you experience any ransomware attack, your data will remain safe as you have a backup. Similarly, you will not have to pay anything to cybercriminals. Make sure to have a backup of all your essential files on the external hard drive and not leave it connected to your PC when not in use.

Do: Keep Your Systems Up to Date and Patched

Cybercriminals are always looking for opportunities to attack. When they find weak cybersecurity, they try to gain advantage and launch the ransomware. So, to achieve the highest level of protection from such attacks, be sure to keep your software and system updated with the latest software patches.

Do: Train Your Team

You should teach your employees to think twice before they click. It is because ransomware attacks are the result of inadequate team training and habits. Therefore, to prevent these attacks, be sure to consider human error first and train your employees what to and not to do.

3 Don'ts of Ransomware

Don’t: Pay Ransom 

New victims of the attack are most likely to pay the ransom when they are asked to in exchange for their data and files. Sure, you want to pay the ransom and move on with your new business, but it can be a bad idea. Why? There is no guarantee attackers will let your system go. Instead, cut your losses and return to a previous instance of your systems. Or, you can seek the help of a cybersecurity firm for ransomware removal.

Don’t: Run Backups During an Attack

It is one of the major mistakes businesses make when they are hit with the ransomware. You do not want to run a backup while you are under attack. Otherwise, you will be doubling the ransomware attack and possibly losing your backups.

Don’t: Give Out Personal Information to Untrusted Sources

If you receive a text, call, or email from an unknown source, never provide personal information when they ask. You should never give out your passwords, logins, and credentials to someone you don’t trust. It is because cybercriminals may try to gain your personal information before they plan to attack. Therefore, you can prevent many ransom attacks by keeping this simple rule in mind.