Ransomware: It Could Happen to Your SMB
Today there may be more crime on the Internet than on the street. One of the most vicious cybercrimes is ransomware: a malicious software (AKA malware) that encrypts files, locks computers and retains control until a certain amount of money is paid. If the victim fails to provide the ransom, the attacker destroys the data. Think your SMB is too small to be a target? Think again. More than 70 percent of ransomware attacks are aimed at small businesses, typically through email-borne infections.
A Costly Cybercrime Wave in the Making
Ransomware has become a serious epidemic, so protecting your company is more essential than ever before, as the number of these attacks continues to rise. A recent U.S. Government interagency report indicates that, on average, 4,000 daily ransomware attacks have been reported since early 2016. That’s a 300 percent increase in just one year!
As ransomware spreads, it is evolving and getting more sophisticated – and more lucrative. In fact, according to Internet Crime Complaint Center, ransomware victims paid more than $24 million to these cybercriminals in 2015 alone.
Protect Your Business: Be Proactive and Reactive
In order to protect your company from this very real cyber threat, you need to keep security top-of-mind throughout your organization. Prevention is your best course of action. Start by educating your employees about the dangers of email attachments and keeping them alert to attacks. A well-planned reaction to an invasion is also essential. Be ready to stop malware in its tracks if it does succeed in penetrating your system.