What is Ransomware attack and what should organizations do to minimize its impact?
Ransomware is a form of malware which involves attacking organization’s and individual’s data and consequently severely limits entity’s ability to access it. This sophisticated malware may restrict user access through slowing down computer systems, denying access to authorized entities, or altogether blocking access to resources. Moreover, this malware attack weaponizes cryptographic techniques.
The most prevalent ransomware attacks operate by encrypting sensitive data and render it inaccessible even to the authorized entities. In other words, the malware author controls the encryption key and remains so unless payment is made. The attacker alerts the victim afterwards and demands huge payment to restore access within a specified ultimatum. If victims fail to pay on deadlines their data may be deemed permanently inaccessible.
The best control against ransomware attacks is extensive training, awareness, education of personnel. The second best control will be to have robust backup system and securely restore data from there. Final thought about ransomware attacks, victims should not fret and never make payment immediately. There may exist some way-outs and victims should promptly seek advice from cybersecurity analysts. Please refer this site for steps that you may have to take and apply if you are under ransomware attack.