The threat of ransomware to businesses is on the rise. It does not matter the size of your business, everyone is at risk without the right protection. If unfamiliar, ransomware is a type of malware that holds computers or files for ransom by encrypting files or locking your desktop or browser on systems that are infected. Simply put, hackers can take ownership of your computer until you pay their price. It’s like they lock all your data, and they’re the only ones with the key.
Businesses like yours are targeted because smaller businesses are easier to hack. They don’t take the precautions from the get-go, allowing themselves to be more vulnerable. Also, they don’t educate themselves on phishing or malware, so are unaware that it even exists.
Don’t be like those businesses.
You have the ability to save your business now from future attacks. First, you gotta learn more about what’s at risk if your business is hit with ransomware.
The Effects of Ransomware
Your Data Becomes Unusable
Ransomware holds data hostage in return for money. Just like any hostage situation, you get nothing until you pay up. So until you pay, you lose access to your business’ data. The hackers hold the keys to your data! This can damage your workflow and has even caused some businesses to close or lose customers. Even if you pay right away, the process of unlocking can take days. On top of that, hackers may deploy ransomware that destroys data as well- you just never know what you’ll run into with ransomware. So even paying the ransom itself poses a threat to your network.
You’re Costing Your Business Money
As said before, your business is put in a corner by hackers who request money for your data. In most cases, hackers set prices fairly low when you consider the stress and economic setback your business could face. In those situations, it’s easy to see why a business would just pay the money. They just want to pay and get it over with! But this isn’t always the logical next step. There’s also no sure way of knowing hackers won’t take your money and run, because they are often untraceable. So, don’t spend your money on a hacker. Prevent ransomware altogether and pay for preventative measures before hand.
How Can We Stay Safe?
The best offense is the best defense. As much as we hope that paying your ransom is a solution, there is zero guarantee. So, the only sure way you can keep your business safe is to have the proper back up and security in place. For more on specific prevention steps you can take, refer to our post How to Prevent Ransomware and Keep Your Systems Safe. You can also check out this WIRED article on four ways to protect against ransomware.
At ITC, we help our clients stay on the defense with our world-class security and backup support. Get security solutions you can trust that will protect your customers and your business. Schedule a free IT analysis today and learn how ITC can partner with your business to protect you from ransomware attacks and more.