Data security incidence increased in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and shift in the remote work model. There is so much sign of slowing down of these incidences in 2021. According to research conducted by a cybersecurity company, Deep Instinct, there is a three-digit increase in malware types worldwide in 2020. Businesses are incurring huge losses, and the expenses related to cybercrime are also soaring high. So, it's essential for you to know what steps to take when facing a critical ransomware attack.
We will take you through the five steps a business should consider to reduce ransomware attacks.
1. Avoid Communication With The Attacker
You will receive a ransom note consisting of instructions for communication from the attacker while your organization is going through a ransomware attack. Once you establish contact, to increase the pressure, the attackers may implement a countdown. Thus, stay away from contacting attackers to avoid countdowns, which could lead to a threatened-consequences.
2. Isolate Affected Systems
Consider isolation to be the topmost priority to protect your other systems from getting infected. The majority of the ransomware can scan the target network, encrypts the files in the network shares, and enter other systems. The infected system should be unplugged from the network as soon as possible to prevent the infection from spreading.
3. Contact Your Cyber Security Consultant
If you feel your business is experiencing a ransomware attack, contact your cyber security provider immediately, irrespective of the plan you have. This step is vital in protecting the crucial data to minimize risk and alleviate harm. Cyber security will implement sophisticated threat intelligence technology. These tools are constructed to block any breach attempts and alert the security team of any potential attack. This step will aid in addressing any unwanted attack as soon as possible.
4. Contact Your IT Team
In a ransomware attack, your IT person will be the first contact person who can help you secure your systems. With their knowledge of the digital environment, your expert IT team can swiftly identify potential threats and implement necessary security measures. In this case, your IT team can directly disconnect your network access and ensure all Remote Desktop Protocol are removed from the internet.
5. Maintain Digital Forensic Proof
While responding to a ransomware attack maintaining relevant forensic evidence is a crucial step that is often forgotten. Reformatting the impacted server to restore the organization's data can impact the device. Henceforth, before reformatting the affected server, take the duplicate copy of the device. This step can help in identifying the source of infection and reduce the future risk.
Conclusion
Executing the above five steps in response to ransomware attacks will help an organization prevent a cyber mishap. An organization should have an adequate response procedure to curtail data loss and cautiously begin the recovery process with cyber security and the IT department. Security requirements can differ remarkably, and your security systems should be modified regularly according to the industry regulatory requirements and the company's unique requirements. At Fusion Factor we take care of your security requirements and prepare your organization against any unwanted data breaches.