As more businesses opt for a hybrid workplace, online networks have never been more important to keep employees connected. More and more data is being created, accessed and stored, making an attractive target for hackers.
Statistics from The State of Ransomware 2024 Threat Report from Sophos reveal that 59% of organisations were hit by ransomware in the past year. Furthermore, Mandiant Threat Intelligence state that 76% of ransomware deployments took place outside of work hours, with the majority occurring in the early morning.
What is ransomware?
Ransomware is a type of malware that deploys encryption on a victim’s system to hold their
What are the threats?
Ransomware is normally accompanied with an extortion type email demand, where hackers as demand cryptocurrency such as Bitcoin for payment.
If your business lacks strong cyber security and is targeted by cyber criminals, a successful ransomware attack could stunt business growth depriving you of your data. With sensitive data in the hands of hackers, your files could also be accessed and shared with a third party, leaving your wider network – including customers – at risk.
How to protect your business against ransomware
To prevent your files from ending up in the wrong hands, be sure to backup important information to multiple locations, such as well-protected online networks or physical servers. With copies elsewhere, if you do find yourself targeted by ransomware, you can safely wipe your device and reinstall backup files and applications without the fear of losing them forever.
Ensuring that your business has a strong cyber security network should involve installing up-to-date security software, using password managers, and training staff to watch out for nefarious spam emails.
If you would like more information on developing a secure cyber security strategy, please contact the NEBRC. We work as part of a national network to inform businesses about cyber threats and provide support to help them stay safe from cybercriminals.
From vulnerability assessments to security awareness training, our team can help your business identify cyber threats and prevent them from being successful.
Please contact us on [email protected] for further guidance or sign up to our free core membership to keep up to date with the latest cyber security matters and keep your business safe online.