Increased Ransomware Attacks: Protecting Remote Employees

Monica Morris • Jul 23, 2020

With more employees working remote, unfortunately this can cause more exposure to new cyber security threats such as Ransomware. 

Ransomware is not new. They are designed to blackmail victims. By encrypting a target’s data, cybercriminals coerce victims to meet their demands such as handing over a credit card, bitcoin, or gift cards as an unlock “fee”.

The New York Times shared in early February 2020 that ransomware attacks had reportedly increased by 41% from 2018 to 2019 . And the trend is still going up.

Evolution of Ransomware Attacks

Ransomware was initially targeted at consumers to scare or trick them into paying a fine or complying with their attacker’s demand. However, hackers shifted their focus to targeted business attacks as the consumer ransomware landscape became overcrowded and less lucrative.

New work-from-home directives have left many employees vulnerable to attacks because they’re unfamiliar and unprepared for ransomware threats.

The Emerging Threats

Cyber security experts are warning about an increase in Coronavirus-themed cyber attacks targeting work-from-home employees. The attackers are using concerns and stress induced by Covid-19 to prey on staff working outside a secure office environment. 

Ransomware is distributed mainly via spear phishing emails, compromised RDP, or deployment on already compromised systems.

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) issued alerts in March specific to cybersecurity concerns regarding working from home. Some of these are based on compromising VPN software that was designed to provide secure access to organizations’ systems. 

The Impact of Ransomware

The full impact of ransomware attacks is unknown since private companies are free to not report attacks for any reason. 

Ransomware targeting public institutions such as hospitals, schools, and Police Departments can have devastating effects. Aside from financial loss, they have the potential of disrupting essential services and battering the reputation of target organizations. For private organizations, the downtime and loss of customer’s confidence can ruin a business.

Why Increase in Attacks?

Most employees working from home are working under unfamiliar circumstances. They are not aware of the security risk. This new arrangement can cause employees to make costly mistakes they would not have made under an office condition.

Additionally, employees working from home opens up a new number of entry points into an organization that wasn’t there previously. These endpoints may not have been properly vetted or configured due to the urgency involved in keeping the business running. 

Employees may also use new devices that are not authorized by the organization to access a company’s server.

Employees can also engage in risky behavior such as clicking on unknown links they would have avoided if in the office due to distraction.

How to Prevent Ransomware Attacks

Enhanced Email Security

Attackers deploy ransomware to new devices primarily through phishing emails. By blocking this entry point, you can reduce the risk of a ransomware infection and keep employees safe.

Install a sophisticated email security system on work from home devices so that suspicious emails can be blocked before being opened. Businesses should also educate employees on the dangers of spam emails and how to handle them.

Keep Your System Up-to-date

With new and advanced ransomware threats,  your devices’ security system must be kept up-to-date to stay secure. 

Operating systems, browsers, and communication software should be set to auto-update to get patches for newly discovered vulnerabilities.

Secure Your Organization Network and Infrastructure 

Fighting malware on an individual employee level isn’t enough, businesses must also invest in full network and system security software for their servers. 

Such a system will block and limit the spread of ransomware in case an employee’s system is compromised. New emails should be scanned and filtered before they are forwarded to their final destination.

System security software should check individual files for threats and block suspicious network activities.

Secure VPN should be mandated for assessing company servers remotely.

Set up a Backup System

Ransomware thrives on the threat of data destruction. Having an automatic off-site and standalone backup of your data or full system will reduce your risk of being extorted since you can restore deleted or corrupted data.

Encrypt your Files

All business data should be encrypted to reduce the threat of private data exposure. Employees working devices should also have an encryption system in place. Additionally, a home-based workforce should be discouraged from using non-approved devices, avoid using public Wi-Fi without a VPN.

The threat of ransomware is increasing due to the evolving need to work from home. Employees can help reduce the risks posed to your business by providing them with the resources listed above.

Please contact us today if you feel your company could be at risk of a cyber attack. 

Fort Wayne Indiana downtown
05 Jan, 2024
In an era where digital transformation is at its peak, businesses are increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats in Fort Wayne, Indiana. With cybercriminals becoming more sophisticated, local companies must avoid these threats to safeguard their digital assets. As cybersecurity experts, SDTEK is dedicated to helping Fort Wayne businesses fortify their defenses against these ever-evolving threats. Understanding the Cyber Threat Landscape in Fort Wayne Like many thriving urban areas, Fort Wayne is home to a diverse range of businesses. The variety of enterprises here makes the city a vibrant economic hub, from bustling tech startups to established manufacturing companies. However, this diversity also makes the area a target for cybercriminals. The most common threats include phishing attacks, ransomware, data breaches, and malware. Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are particularly vulnerable, often due to limited IT security resources. Recognizing these threats is the first step in building an effective defense strategy. Why Cybersecurity Matters More Than Ever for Local Businesses The consequences of cyber attacks can be devastating. They can lead to financial loss, damage to reputation, and legal implications if customer data is compromised. In today's interconnected world, the fallout from a security breach can extend far beyond the immediate damage, impacting customer trust and business continuity. Tailored Cybersecurity Strategies for Fort Wayne Businesses At SDTEK, we understand that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to cybersecurity. This is why we offer customized security strategies that cater to the specific needs of Fort Wayne businesses. Our approach includes: Risk Assessment: Evaluate your business's particular risks, considering factors unique to your industry and operational model. Employee Training: Empowering your staff with knowledge and best practices to recognize and prevent potential cyber threats. Implementing Robust Security Measures: This includes firewalls, anti-virus software, and secure Wi-Fi networks tailored to your business's specific needs. Regular Monitoring and Updates: Continuously monitor for threats and keep your security systems up-to-date to combat new and emerging threats. Best Practices for Cyber Hygiene In addition to tailored strategies, there are general best practices that every business in Fort Wayne can implement: Regularly update software and systems to patch vulnerabilities. Use strong, unique passwords and consider multi-factor authentication. Regularly back up data and store it securely. Establish a clear policy for handling sensitive data. Collaboration and Continuous Learning Cybersecurity is not a one-time effort but a continuous process. Collaboration between businesses and cybersecurity experts like SDTEK is crucial. We encourage Fort Wayne businesses to engage in local cybersecurity forums and workshops to stay informed about the latest threats and defenses. Conclusion In Fort Wayne, staying ahead of cyber threats is essential for the longevity and success of your business. By understanding the risks, implementing tailored strategies, and practicing good cyber hygiene, local businesses can significantly reduce their vulnerability to cyber-attacks. At SDTEK, we are committed to partnering with you in this journey, providing the expertise and support you need to protect your digital assets and thrive in a digital-first world. For more insights and assistance on cybersecurity solutions tailored for your Fort Wayne business, contact SDTEK . Your digital safety is our priority.
06 Dec, 2023
In today's digital landscape, cybersecurity is paramount to protect sensitive business information from falling into the wrong hands. As a business owner, you understand the value of securing your data and safeguarding your reputation. That's where dark web monitoring comes into play. What is Dark Web Monitoring? The dark web is a hidden part of the internet where illegal activities often take place, including the buying and selling of stolen data. Dark web monitoring involves scanning the dark web to identify any instances of your business's compromised information being traded or sold. By monitoring these underground networks, you gain valuable insights and can take immediate action to mitigate potential risks. Key Features and Benefits Real-time Alerts: Dark web monitoring provides real-time alerts, notifying you the moment your business's data appears on the dark web. This allows you to respond swiftly and take the necessary steps to protect your sensitive information. Comprehensive Coverage: Dark web monitoring casts a wide net across various dark web platforms, ensuring comprehensive coverage. It searches for mentions of your business, compromised credentials, financial information, and other sensitive data that may have been exposed. Access to an Expert Support Team: With dark web monitoring, you're not alone in the fight against cyber threats. You have access to an expert support team that can guide you through the process, answer your questions, and provide recommendations to strengthen your cybersecurity posture. Addressing Misconceptions Misconception 1: Dark web monitoring is only necessary for large businesses. Cybercriminals do not discriminate based on business size. Any organization, regardless of its scale, can become a target. Small businesses are particularly vulnerable as they often lack the robust security infrastructure that larger enterprises may have. Dark web monitoring is essential for all businesses, regardless of their size, to proactively protect their data. Misconception 2: Dark web monitoring is too technical to understand. While dark web monitoring may involve technical processes, the service providers are equipped to simplify the complexities for you. They will guide you through the setup, explain the monitoring process, and provide actionable insights in a user-friendly manner. You don't need to be a cybersecurity expert to benefit from dark web monitoring. Misconception 3: Dark web monitoring is expensive. The cost of dark web monitoring is a fraction of the potential financial and reputational damage that a data breach can cause. It's an investment in the security and longevity of your business. Additionally, many service providers offer flexible pricing options to suit different business needs, making it an affordable solution for businesses of all sizes. Conclusion As a business owner, the protection of your data is essential for the continuity and success of your organization. Dark web monitoring offers a proactive approach to cybersecurity, enabling you to identify and respond to potential threats swiftly. By leveraging real-time alerts, comprehensive coverage, and the support of experts, you can safeguard your sensitive information, maintain customer trust, and protect your business from reputational damage. Don't wait until it's too late. Invest in dark web monitoring to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals and gain the peace of mind you deserve. Your business's security is worth it.
Share by: