In 2017, ransomware attacks rose an astounding 250 per cent, according to AO Kaspersky Lab (2017): IT Threat Evolution Q1 2017.
Ransomware is a type of malicious software that encrypts critical data on computers or mobile devices and blocks the owner from accessing files. Ransomware requires the user pay a ransom (hence the name – Ransomware) to the attacker in order to regain access to files.
On average, small businesses lose over $100,000 per ransomware incident as a result of downtime, according to CNN (2017), Why Ransomware Cost Small Businesses Big Money.
Here is a list of some recent attacks and a worldwide cost estimate:
- CryptoWall (2014): $325 million
- CryptoLocker (2013 to 2014): $30 million
- Petya/NotPetya (2016 to 2017): $1.2 billion
- WannaCry (2017): $4 billion
How can you combat ransomware in your business? Multi-layered security is a must! Here are some examples of multi-layered security:
- Next-Generation Firewall: This is perimeter defense against a potential attack. Next-Gen Firewalls are designed to block unauthorized access to your computer system or network, giving you granular control over inbound and outbound traffic.
- Endpoint Protection: More than your traditional signature or hash-based antivirus, modern endpoint protection technologies provide behaviour-based protections, sandboxing, and forensic analysis to help combat modern threats.
- Privileged Access Management: With cloud computing and SaaS services management on the rise, privileged access management is critical. Whether it’s a simple password vaulting solution or full-blown identity management with Privileged Access Management (PAM), it’s essential you protect and control your credentials.
- File Level Backup: A good file sync and share tool is more than just a way for your business to collaborate on the go; it’s also a vital component of your organization’s security strategy. With file level backup, you can ensure that, even in the event of a sitewide disaster, your team maintains access to critical files. Ask us about 365OmniDrive – the most-secure way for a business to access and share files from anywhere.
- Server Level Backup: Server level backup allows you to recover at the systems level, which is the last line of defense in a sitewide disaster. In the event of the worst-case scenario, it always helps to know you’ve got a fail-safe solution.
If you have questions about protecting your business from downtime, contact Michael Anderson at Michael@365tech.ca to discuss your options for total system protection, onsite and in the Cloud.