According to the 2021 Verizon Data Breach Report, Ransomware is appearing in 10% of data breaches, more than doubling its frequency from last year with emails being the top delivery mechanism for all malware including ransomware.
What is Ransomware?
Ransomware is a type of malware generated by an attacker that encrypts victims' data and threatens to publish the victim's personal data or block access to it unless a ransom is paid. Generally, attackers would deliver the malware to the target then infiltrate the target's network, encrypt as much data as possible and extort for ransom.
How Do I Prevent Ransomware?
Detecting a ransomware attack in progress is not enough as the damage has already been done, it is more crucial to focus on preventing ransomware in the first place.
Here are some security measures to follow to prevent ransomware:
1. Do not click on unsafe links
Avoid clicking on suspicious links or attachments in your mailbox. If you've clicked on a malicious link an automated download would be started without you knowing and leads to your computer getting infected.
2. Avoid Disclosing Personal Details
Do not give out your personal details to any untrusted sources. Cybercriminals may create a replicated website to steal your personal information or send phishing messages to you specifically.
If you're unsure whether the site is trusted or not, contact the official store or sender directly.
3. Keep Your Software Updated
Outdated software makes your computer vulnerable to exploits in your program. Keeping your software and operating system regularly updated protects your computer from malware and makes it harder for cybercriminals to exploit vulnerabilities.
4. Unknown USB Sticks
Do not connect unknown USB sticks or storage media lying around as cybercriminals may have infected the device and place it at a random location to entice victims.
5. Only Download From Trusted Sources
To minimize the risk of downloading ransomware, avoid downloading from untrusted or unknown sources. Take note that trusted websites use "HTTPS" instead of "HTTP" and a shield or lock symbol in the address bar can also indicate that the page is secure.
6. Security Software
Invest in security software that covers all threats vectors such as mail security filters, web filters, web application firewalls for your website, network firewalls with advanced threat protection, and endpoint anti-virus software
Overall, we have to be very careful and think twice before clicking anything on the internet. To be well prepared, back up your data regularly to prevent data loss and minimize the damage done.
Not sure how to keep your PC protected?
Call us at +65 6262 0402 or email us at care@acebizservices.com to get the information details on your needs.