We all have heard about the virus attacks all around the world. Computer viruses are malicious software inserted into one’s computer without the knowledge of the user to perform malicious activities and steal their information from the computer.
Ransomware:
Ransomware is a malware from crypto-virology that is used to threaten people to publish the information in the computer if the ransom is not paid. Some ransoms may lock the system which can be unlocked by a pretty knowledgeable person, such as a network consultant. While some others may use a malware technique called crypt extortion, which encrypts the files, the user will not be able to use it until the demanded amount is paid to the ransom and it cannot be used until the ransom unencrypts the files. There are three things to understand about ransomware. It is fast, scary and it is big business. If this could affect your business in a significant way, there is a big possibility that your business may come to a halt. So, these are some ideas to prevent your business from ransomware attacks.
If your organisation is not following these steps as a preventive measure and the business is affected by ransomware, there is no guarantee that the ransomware will unencrypt your files after you pay them. The most important thing is to not to pay them. So be productive, preventive, and preparative.
Educate the employees: Employees can be the first line of defence to all infectious malware from entering your business system and encrypting your information. Mostly these come as web links that often say that it has no virus or something along those lines. If the employees are taught about this and have a level of awareness, then there is a greater possibility that your systems won’t be affected.
Restrict the use of privileged accounts: If you carry out this step you won’t be exposed and you may not be found by a virus attacker, therefore you can safeguard your data. Advise your employees not to click unauthorised links which may carry any ransomware virus.
Employ a data backup for all critical information: It is one of the most helpful methods if in case your data is attacked by a ransomware virus. It is important for lessening the impact of the malware attack. At least move all your critical and important data to your company’s cloud account so that it can be safe from the virus attack.
Make sure all devices and computers are updated: Always make sure that your devices have the licensed and renewed anti-virus and anti-malware programs necessary to make sure that they run around your programs. This is so that you can check whether your programs function smoothly and efficiently and you will be notified of any server or device that is affected by a virus.
Be cautious of email links: As already mentioned above, these ransomware viruses are attached to web pages and web links that are usually sent to your email. Beware of this. Think twice before opening an unknown web link attached in your email inbox. It is better if you delete your spam mail as it can also be an essential step in protecting your computer from any ransomware viruses.
Do not panic about virus attacks. Be preventive and create awareness on virus attacks. Educate your office employees and always remember not to pay any ransom as there is no guarantee that they will unencrypt your file. Follow the above instructions to be safe and keep your business running efficiently. Hire managed IT service providers to give your business the best chance of running smoothly.