Best Ways to Ensure
Protection against Ransomware
Ransomware can be described as software created by hackers to
steal sensitive data. When ransomware infects a computer, it displays a prompt
requiring the individual or firm associated with the system to make a payment.
Hackers behind ransomware typically claim that once the ransom is paid, the
information seized would be released.
Even though health workers are struggling against the effects of
COVID-19, cybercriminals have remained relentless in their efforts. They have
attempted targeted attacks against healthcare providers.
Cyber-Attacks
Emerging during COVID-19
INTERPOL, the International Criminal Police Organization, has sounded a warning to hospitals about
increasing ransomware attacks. The multinational body stated that ransomware
installation success on a hospital’s network could lead to a slowdown of
medical response and destruction of data.
One of such successful attacks was conducted on Champaign-Urbana
Public Health District in Illinois. When workers at the hospital were unable to
access files on the computer, they notified the FBI.
This is not the first time cybercriminals have attacked medical
institutions. In 2017, the ransomware known as WannaCry struck the UK’s
National Health Service, costing the organization more than $100 million.
To protect your data from hackers, carefully read the steps below.
Deflecting
Ransomware Attacks from your Device
1.
Install Security Tools
An antivirus is a program designed to detect and remove malicious software on
your system. This software works by sniffing out malicious codes and signatures
of new programs on your computer.
However, there have been instances where antivirus software has
failed to protect a device. Since antivirus works with detecting known
malicious signatures, new malware could get in to infect your computer. It is
because of this reason you need multiple layers of security.
Using a firewall would be beneficial as they’re considered the
first line of defense between your computer and ransomware.
2.
Organize Cybersecurity Awareness Seminars
Organize digital security classes for employees to educate them on spotting
potential ransomware programs, and learning cybersecurity trends, etc. Workers
that understand ways to detect ransomware and
phishing attacks are less likely to fall victim to ransomware
attacks.
Employees have to be trained on how to react when receiving email
messages. First, an email should not be opened if the sender is unknown.
Second, if a link or file is attached to the email, it should not be downloaded
unless it is necessary. Third, the URL address of the link in the email would
have to be verified before it’s clicked by hovering the arrow above the link.
Phishing and computer programs are the two most common ways to get
ransomware onto a device.
3. Backup
your Data
Since ransomware infects files on a computer system, if those files are backed
up on another source, the malicious software would effectively become useless.
Saving your data elsewhere would ensure ready access to those files, resulting
in non-payment of ransoms.
You can decide to back up your data on an external hard drive or
cloud storage. Note that all forms of backups come with different
risks.
4.
Install Software Updates
One of the ways hackers utilize to infect devices with ransomware is to exploit
codes in software. IT teams behind computer programs and operating software
work continually to patch vulnerabilities in their codes. Once a security
update is made, it gets released to users.
When you install a software update immediately it becomes
available, hackers find it more difficult to penetrate your system. You can set
your computer’s settings to install OS updates automatically and check for
software updates.
Ensure you delete unused programs and software that have not been
updated in an extended period.
Final
Thoughts
Cybercriminals have taken advantage of the pandemic situation all over the
globe to make quick bucks. They’re increasingly attacking organizations with
ransomware. This kind of malware that locks system data usually leads to loss
of lives and money.
To protect your device from a ransomware attack, you can back up
your data, educate workers, regularly install program updates, and purchase
security tools.