Last Updated on 05/12/2023 by Dolly
Our lives today have become more comfortable thanks to digital devices, services, and, of course, the internet. With all these benefits, there has to be a downside. And that downside is cyber-attacks while trying to protect data. Today we will look into the different types of cyber attacks and how they can affect organizations.
Latest Ransomware Tactics
- Double Extortion
With this attack, attackers leak sensitive data and encrypt the victim’s data in addition. If an additional ransom is not paid, they increase the pressure on the victim by threatening to publish or sell the data.
- Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS)
Cybercriminals are now selling ransomware toolkits as a service on the dark web. With the sale of these services, it attracts the attention of eager attackers who are at the entry-level, leading to an increase in attacks.
- Targeted Attacks
Attackers are now launching attacks against specific sectors such as healthcare, financial services, and critical infrastructure. These sectors have a higher incentive to pay higher ransoms due to the abundance of data and the urgency of their operations.
- Phishing and Social Engineering
Ransomware attacks typically start with phishing emails or social engineering tactics. Attackers use persuasive messages to encourage victims to click on malicious links or download infected attachments.
Protective Measures
- Regular Backups: Maintain up-to-date backups of all critical data, ensuring that backups are stored offline or on a separate network segment to prevent attackers from encrypting them during an attack.
- Employee Training: Regularly educate employees on the dangers of phishing emails and social engineering. This will increase awareness and make it easier for staff to recognize and report suspicious activity.
- Patch and Update Systems: Regularly update operating systems, applications, and, most importantly, security software to patch and close vulnerabilities. Cybercriminals often exploit outdated systems to gain unauthorized access.
- Implement Robust Security Solutions: Use intrusion detection systems, firewalls, and advanced endpoint protection. Use email filtering to detect and block phishing attempts before they reach employees’ inboxes.
- Incident Response Plan: Developing an emergency response plan outlines the steps to take in the event of a ransomware attack. To ensure a quick and effective response, it is helpful to practice as if there were a real attack.
- Collaborate with Cybersecurity Experts: Work with cybersecurity experts who specialize in ransomware prevention and recovery. They can perform security assessments, identify vulnerabilities, and help strengthen your organization’s defenses.
Ransomware attacks continue to be a significant problem for many organizations worldwide. Businesses can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to these malicious schemes by learning the methods used by cybercriminals and actively protecting against them. Paying attention to cybersecurity, investing in employee training, and working with cybersecurity experts are essential to protecting important data and ensuring collaboration in the face of ever-evolving ransomware.
