Ransomware is a category of malware that encrypts the file of its victim. To obtain access to a victim's system, ransomware attackers frequently use social engineering techniques like phishing. The attacker then demands a ransom from the victim in exchange for restoring access to the data. It can be disastrous to an individual or an organization.
Asymmetric encryption is used by ransomware. It is a type of cryptography that encrypts and decrypts a file using a pair of keys. Ransomware encrypts valuable files and demands a ransom to unlock them. Without access to a private key, it is almost impossible to decrypt the files being held for ransom. Malware needs an attack vector to form its presence on an endpoint before encrypting files.
What is the most prevalent method for ransomware to target a victim?
Attackers
use custom Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs) to target particular
organizations based on their ability or need to pay significant ransoms. In
some cases, such as educational institutes, it is a matter of chance.
Who is the target for a ransomware
attack?
It has an impact on every vertical, government, and organization. Attackers of ransomware are increasingly targeting sensitive enterprises that can hardly suffer downtime. Some of them are listed below:
- Government agencies
- Healthcare facilities
- Critical Infrastructure (CI) providers
- Law firms
What are the various measures to prevent
ransomware attacks?
When it comes to ransomware attacks, the essential thing for attackers to search for is a susceptible network. Unfortunately, once an attack has been performed against your system, you can do nothing to undo the damage. So, the best defense is prevention. You can take several protective measures to avoid becoming infected with ransomware. Such as:
- Maintain sound access control
- Use a firewall and trusted antivirus software. It is vital to have a strong firewall in place and to maintain your security software up to date.
- Install a good backup system. It is the easiest approach to regain access to your data.
- Make sure that all of your systems and software are patched and up to date.
- Anti-phishing solutions should be used in combination with phishing awareness training.
- Ensure the security of your Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)
- The ransom should not be paid. It just serves to promote and fund these attackers.
- Ensure that your Remote Browser Isolation (RBI) solution incorporates Content Disarm and Reconstruction (CDR) features.
- End-users can be helped by providing regular and practical cybersecurity awareness training.
- Take cybersecurity seriously and hire more highly educated cybersecurity experts needed to combat these attacks.
How can InfosecTrain help?
InfosecTrain is a worldwide leader in IT security training and consultancy. Our highly skilled instructors will provide you with all of the knowledge and skills you will need to assure preparedness and uncover methods to strengthen your response when the worst happens to your and your company's IT systems from ransomware attacks. Enroll in one of our security training courses to learn how to keep a healthy security posture and avoid ransomware attacks.
