Smartphones and tablets are the most at risk for ransomware attacks. Anywhere where sensitive files are stored without proper security. Millions of people have their data stolen through their mobile devices via text, email, and online shopping.
Having an experienced cybersecurity team in place can help prevent your company from being exposed, thus paying millions of dollars to hackers. We at ClearFuze believe in delivering streamlined support that prevents your company from cybersecurity hacks.
Let’s look at how proper ransomware protection can protect your company from becoming a target for hackers.
How does ransomware work?
Hackers are growing savvier by the day when it comes to ransomware attacks. To understand how ransomware works, we have to first look at what ransomware is. Ransomware is a type of malware attack. In this type of attack, the victim’s files are corrupted by exposure to a malicious code sent by the hackers to the victim’s device. This device can range from a business computer to a smartphone.
Once exposed, a device becomes encrypted. These attacks are so destructive that the code’s ability to remain undetectable. This is achieved by the code going dormant until the device is at its most vulnerable. A business could lose everything.
A ransomware attack can happen in many ways, but one of the most common is through email or phishing. Emails received will appear professional and can include links that look as though they are from a trusted source. Yet once these emails are opened, or link clicked, this triggers the attack known as phishing. Once this happens, the user’s files become encrypted, and the company’s hardware becomes locked.
The ransomware group requests a ransom amount, ranging from thousands of dollars to a few million. Ransomware attacks can work through an entire roster. It’s one of the oldest tricks in the book, yet the most effective.
According to Imperva.com there are seven stages to a ransomware attack: infection, execution, encryption, user notification, cleanup, payment, and decryption. Unfortunately, the final stage of decryption, where the victim promises to send the key upon payment, is not always a guarantee. Due to this, it becomes critical that precautions be taken.
How can ransomware affect me?
If preventable measures aren’t taken ahead of time, the effect of a ransomware attack could ruin a company. A company that chooses to place cybersecurity on the back burner proves to be at a higher risk for a ransomware attack. More specifically, let’s say the company has a weak cybersecurity system in place; once the hackers have successfully launched their malware, it becomes a domino effect—placing every employee’s files at risk.
At ClearFuze, we have IT experts who provide clients with top-tier cybersecurity. Measures are taken by setting up a consultation that consists of an IT audit. This is referred to as the “discovery” process. Instead of focusing on what needs to be changed, ClearFuze focuses on how our services can add to your business.
There are 4 types of IT audits we provide for our clients regardless of industry. These audits are critical to the success of a business and are conducted before contracts are signed.
Companies affected by ransomware
These attacks that were once aimed at big-name companies are now focused on midsized companies. Your business could be at risk for a ransomware attack, and you may not even know it. Larger companies with deeper pockets were the focus for ransomware attacks. They bring more media attention—helping the community growth of ransomware hackers. Being seen as more accessible and a more lucrative catch motivated the attacks.
Now the tables have turned, with smaller companies becoming more attractive. Mid Sized companies that are up for acquisition are now the latest victims of ransomware groups—attacking minor means a hefty payday without the risk that a significant company brings. Additionally, it does not matter which industry you occupy, as hackers target small businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, technology, consumer-based, and even law firms.
Smaller corporations tend to have little to no cybersecurity, or their cybersecurity isn’t as effective. The common thinking behind this boils down to small business owners believing that they are too small for such an attack. But risks like these pose a significant threat to private equity, venture capital, and other deal makers interested in investing.
Just like us, ransomware hackers are watching the daily news closely. This gives them insight into which companies are about to go private, initiating a ransomware attack.
What to do when my computer gets attacked by ransomware
The reality isn’t if you will become a victim of a ransomware attack, but more so about when. Because of this, investors seek cybersecurity measures to be in place before an acquisition deal is done and announced.
It is highly recommended to be proactive rather than reactive in a situation such as a ransomware attack. Yet, should you find yourself on the receiving end of a ransomware attack, our team here at ClearFuze is here to help businesses throughout the Los Angeles area. Our IT consulting services located near the Santa Monica airport can assist in providing in-person help or remote assistance. Services requested are handled immediately to help keep your investment running smoothly.