5 Tips to Help Mitigate the Risk of a Ransomware Attack

Avoid a ransomware attack by educating yourself and protecting your business. Knowledge is power, so be in the know and check out these 5 helpful tips from CREG Systems!

What is ransomware? This Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency report defines it as “a type of malicious software, or malware, designed to deny access to a computer system or data until a ransom is paid.” In addition, CISA warns us that ransomware usually spreads through phishing emails or by accidentally visiting an infected website.

Don’t become the next victim of a ransomware attack! Here are our quick tips to help protect your data:

1. Get the right protection software.

Mitigate the risk of being attacked by ransomware by protecting your data with the most up-to-date security software. For example, make sure you are secured through NEXTGEN firewalls, use sandboxing for extra protection, and insure you’ve got protection at gate and edge router level. Ask us about our network security services to learn more.

2. Check your hardware.

Malfunctioning, unpatched or outdated hardware can greatly increase your risk of a ransomware attack. Most importantly, get your hardware regularly assessed and updated. In addition, check for any vulnerabilities that may allow malware to seep through into your network. To do that, we at CREG Systems provide assessments to help you keep your hardware in top shape.

3. Multi-level protection is key.

From desktop level to firewall level, each device in your organization should have segmented and multi-layered protection. That will insure that ransomware can be stopped before it gets to your data. Email us, and we will help you minimize the risk by combining software and hardware protection tools, elements of AI and machine learning

4. Practice good cyber habits.

Backup, backup, backup. Never keep your backups online, keep your systems updated, whitelist good apps to keep the bad ones out, limit access privileges, and use two-factor authentication. In short, prevention is better than cure!

5. Know who to contact in worst case scenario.

In case of a ransomware attack, never pay the ransom and always ask for help! Firstly, Contact CISA and notify your local FBI field office. Secondly, give us a call. CREG Systems is a trusted experienced advisor. We are here for you, should you need assistance in recovery from a cyber attack. Contact us to learn more!

CREG Systems seeks to educate its customers about the telecom industry and the services we offer. We do so by giving you tools and information to help you learn more to empower and protect your business. Located in Watertown, NY, we serve our Northern New York customers in many areas of IT and telecommunications, including cyber security. Click the “Contact Us” button above to get in touch!