Ransomware attacks are on the rise, are you prepared?

By James


help preventing ransomware

How a ransomware attack works, what to do if you are attacked and how you can prevent it.

 

You might have heard of ransomware attacks in the news as some sort of malware that infects individuals and businesses alike, but what is a ransomware attack, what can you do if a ransomware has attacked your system and how can you prevent one? The following article is designed to provide guidance on managing this cyber threat and the steps that you can undertake to protect your organisation.

What is a ransomware attack?

As the name itself suggests, ransomware attacks are malwares designed to extort money from their victims. Once a ransomware enters the system it encrypts or locks the data and files so that the victim is no longer able to access them. It then requests money (usually to be paid via bitcoin to avoid traceability) in return for unlocking the system.

Ransomware attacks are on the rise

Despite having been developed in the 1980s, ransomwares only became a real threat in the early 2000s, due to the development of encryption technology. The latest figures show that in 2018 there were an estimated 204 million ransomware attacks, versus the 184 million in 2017.

Not only has the number of attacks increased, but the target of the attacks is also changing: hackers moved from general spreading to specifically targeting victims that are more likely to pay high ransoms, like organisations.

What should you do if you have been infected by a ransomware?

There are only 2 steps you should take:

  • Do not pay! Not only would this make you more vulnerable to further attacks (they know you will pay) but paying doesn’t actually ensure that the files and data will be released.
  • Get help from the experts. While you might be tempted to try and get a solution internally, getting experts to look at your case and fix the situation is the best approach to save time and maximise the results of an intervention. If you do find yourself in such a critical situation, WellData will be able to assist, so please don’t hesitate to contact us.

 

What can you do to protect your organisation?

There are at least 7 steps that you should undertake to prevent a ransomware attack:

 

  • Prevent human error. The easiest way for a ransomware to enter a system is via SPAM and someone clicking on a harmful link. Once the ransomware is downloaded it starts spreading across the organisation encrypting files and data along its way.

The best protection from human error is awareness and training: ensure that your people across every level of the organisation are trained in online safety. If you are looking for a reputable source for your training, the National Cyber Security Centre offers free resources to help organisation train their staff.

 

  • Manage vulnerabilities: over time, software and applications might develop flaws that allow viruses in – that’s why developers are constantly releasing new versions and patches. The key is to systematically update your software and applications and ensure that they are up to date.

 

  • Implement the ‘Principle of least privilege: ensure that you exert strict control on how privileges and access are granted, to ensure that users are given only those privileges that they require to complete their authorised task. From restricted user accounts to superusers, it is critical that the right level of access is granted to reduce pathways and openings that could be exploited.

 

 

  • Segment your network: Network segmentation is about improving security and reducing threats. By splitting and segmenting your network into smaller networks and subnets you effectively create a physical fence against the spreading of a ransomware attack.

 

  • Invest in off-site databases back-ups: if a ransomware attacks your databases it can take control of your data and files; however, it can also infiltrate into your database backups , effectively preventing you from restoring your data. From copying backups to the cloud, to the old fashion ‘tape in the cupboard’, having a back-up separated from the main system ensures that, if the worst comes to the worst, you can still easily access your databases. Speak to us  if you require any assistance with off-site back-ups.

 

  • Constantly monitor your databases: continuous monitoring, real time alerting, and regular checks can highlight the effects of an intrusion before it creates damages or at least severely limit the amount of damage that a ransomware can inflict.

 

Our clients don’t need to worry about this last step because as part of our services we install specialist monitoring tools, with real-time alerts in place that ensures that, in the case of any anomalous events which could indicate unauthorised activity, a DBA is allocated to the task immediately.

Additionally, one of our WellData DBAs will be on hand immediately to ensure our clients’ databases are recovered and they get back online as soon as possible should the worst happen.

If you have any questions about cyber security for your databases or require any assistance please don’t hesitate contact WellData now, we will be able to help you.

 

<< Back to Knowledge Centre

Join Our Newsletter

Contact Email  *
First Name 
Last Name 
*Required Fields
I agree to the  Privacy Policy and  Terms of Use 

Here's what other people think

Google Rating
5.0
High standard, professional service. I've worked with Welldata for a number of years and always found their DBA's to be knowledgeable and proactive. Throw any question at them and it will be resolved, it gives real peace of mind knowing you have a partner you can rely on from emergencies to general questions. They also like a challenge and we do throw a few curved balls at them.read more
Paul Miller
Paul Miller
12:34 27 Aug 21
The support I receive from Well Data is extremely responsive. Richard Parsons is my contact and keeps me informed daily on the health of our SQL Databases. Whenever I ask for assistance from Well Data it is quick and professional.read more
Kay Riley
Kay Riley
13:41 19 Aug 21
Really know their stuff and their response times are very good. They provide us with a vital service.
Andy Cole
Andy Cole
13:36 19 Aug 21
The guys at WellData really know their stuff. We wanted a quick route to doing something complex and they sorted it for us very quickly and to a high standard. Very professional, no ego, just excellent and to the point consultancy.read more
Steve Goacher
Steve Goacher
11:31 14 Nov 19
I have worked with the WellData team for many years now and they have always delivered.I would highly recommend them to any business looking for best-value outsourced Expert DBA’s.Being able to offer a rolling contract on the basis that if they don’t deliver you can leave shows their confidence and commitment.Their professionalism and knowledge is second to none.read more
Petro Bartoszyk
Petro Bartoszyk
08:51 18 Oct 19
A very dedicated team of extremely professional and knowledgeable experts
Giulia Iannucci
Giulia Iannucci
14:08 16 Nov 18
We use Welldata for SQL support and are very happy with their service.
David Sadler
David Sadler
09:40 15 Nov 18
Really know their stuff and their response times are very good.
Andy Cole
Andy Cole
11:45 06 Nov 18
Our partnership with WellData has enabled us to resolve critical database problems. Their attitude and service makes them a natural extension to our own technology team, which extends our capability in a critical area of our business.read more
Steve Fenton
Steve Fenton
10:56 05 Nov 18
Having worked with the team at Welldata for approaching 17 years, my company and I have always found them professional, reliable and generally a great firm to work with.read more
John Lynes
John Lynes
14:00 04 Oct 17
WellData provide an excellent level of support and their team are very knowledgeable and always go the extra mile. I would wholeheartedly recommend them.read more
Stefan Parrott
Stefan Parrott
13:12 19 Sep 17