Ransomware is in the news continuously and is a growing problem.

The Wannacry ransomware attacks of May 2017 raised the issue on a global level and demonstrated how easy it is for businesses and organisations to fall victim to it. Please find below our brief guidance & advice on Ransomware. Understand avoidance and how to handle breaches.

Ransomware is everywhere and it is dangerous.

It is malicious software that locks a device, such as a computer, tablet or smartphone and then demands a ransom to unlock it. Even with payment, there’s no guarantee of data recovery.

FAQs

Where did Ransomware originate?

The first documented case appeared in 2005 in the United States, but quickly spread around the world.

How does it affect a computer?

The software is normally contained within an attachment to an email that masquerades as something innocent. Once opened it encrypts the hard drive, making it impossible to access or retrieve anything stored on there – such as photographs, documents or music

How can you protect yourself?

Anti-virus software can protect your machine, although cyber criminals are constantly working on new ways to override such protection. Further information is available on protection below.

How much are victims expected to pay?

The ransom demanded varies. Victims of a 2014 attack in the UK were charged £500. However, there’s no guarantee that paying will get your data back. You can download the most recent Ransomware Report from Datto here: 2017 Ransomware Report.

Most ransomware attacks are in fact quite simplistic from an IT perspective. They exploit vulnerabilities in operating systems where those operating systems haven’t been kept up to date with the latest security patches.

Consider more robust cyber security for your business – find out more about our cyber solutions here, including our cyber fundamentals package “Cyber One“. Finally – don’t pay the ransom – contact us first!