Ransomware attackers are becoming more sophisticated and finding ways to bypass existing defenses. Here are some effective protection strategies for your organization.
Protect your email.
Ransomware attackers often use phishing emails to gain access to administrator or user credentials. To prevent these attacks, it is essential to block phishing attempts.
Attackers use social engineering methods to get around traditional email security measures. An email security solution that includes AI-enabled phishing and account takeover protection should be used to combat this. Additionally, the solution should alert users when malicious activities are detected.
It is also important to train users regularly since phishing attacks become more sophisticated over time.
It is crucial to have a solution in place that can quickly address email attacks that bypass security and end up in users’ inboxes. An email security solution that facilitates proactive threat discovery and automates remediation is ideal.
Secure your applications.
Attackers hack your web applications to gain access to your data. To protect your data, securing your web applications from potential vulnerabilities is essential. An application security solution can help defend against attacks such as OWASP Top 10, zero-day exploits, and brute force attacks.
For internal applications, limiting access to authorized users and devices is crucial by implementing a zero-trust access solution that uses role-based access, multi-factor authentication, and continuous verification of user and device identity.
Additionally, you should prevent lateral movement on your network by using a network firewall that provides advanced security services and network segmentation to protect both your on-premises and cloud networks.
Back up your data.
Protecting your data from attackers who may encrypt it and demand ransom is crucial. The first step is to back up all of your data, including on-premises and cloud/SaaS applications like Office 365.
It’s also important to safeguard access to applications since attackers often target backups to prevent data recovery. You can achieve this through encryption, access control, and IP restrictions.
Your goal is to make it easy for you to access your data but difficult for attackers to do so. Additionally, you should develop a recovery plan to deal with an attack swiftly, recover your data, and avoid paying ransom. Remember to consider both technical and business responses when creating your plan. It’s also advisable to test your plan thoroughly before any issues arise.
Finally, forensics can help identify vulnerabilities in the aftermath of an attack.
Extra Tips to Prevent Ransomware
Here are some extra tips to aid in preventing ransomware:
- Keep your software updated and patched. Hackers often exploit known vulnerabilities, so ensure you don’t give them an easy way in.
- Use strong passwords and enforce password security practices. Many cyber attacks succeed because of weak passwords and poor password management.
- Consider using multifactor authentications for all your applications and resources. This could involve requiring a phone app or text-based second-factor authentication, which can help prevent brute-force login attempts.
Visit the CISA – Stop Ransomware website for more ideas on how YOU can stop ransomware!
Do you prioritize the safety and security of your organization? Allow Commonwealth Sentinel to be your partner in risk reduction and ensuring the well-being of all. Our comprehensive services range from software and hardware solutions to training and policy implementation. Contact us at (502) 320-9885 to learn more about how we can help you achieve peace of mind.