Ransomware can be very profitable — if you’re a hacker. For example, according to a report by the security firm Sophos, the SamSam ransomware attacks, which target healthcare providers, have net the creator of this ransomware $6 million. The largest ransom paid so far was $64,000. Could your business afford an attack like that? As you can see, with stakes this high, hackers have plenty of motivations to utilize ransomware attacks. What can you do in the face of this threat?

First, it is important to understand what happens during a ransomware attack. There are two types of ransomware. In one type, your screen will be locked, and in the other, your files will be encrypted. In both cases, a ransom is demanded to either unlock your devices or decrypt your files. Often included is a ticking clock, and if you do not pay the ransom within a certain time frame, your files will be destroyed. Sometimes, it can spread to other devices in your network even without a user taking any action. Your files may be backed up, but you may not be out of the woods just yet. Some ransomware attacks can disrupt the ways in which your applications run, affecting your entire device. What is even worse is that in some cases, ransoms are paid without files ever being unlocked or decrypted. We are dealing with cybercriminals who are known to be untrustworthy actors, yet businesses often find themselves left with no choice but to pay the ransom. With such devastating consequences, you need a plan in place to prevent these attacks and minimize consequences if prevention fails.

In order to understand how to prevent attacks such as these, you need to know how the hackers infiltrate your network. The most common method is through phishing emails, which makes your employees your first line of defense. A trusted IT partner like 101 Digital can help you and your team learn how to recognize suspicious emails. We can also help you navigate the decisions that must be made should your network become compromised by ransomware. With 101 Digital working on your behalf, you will not be facing these attacks alone. You will have a team of IT experts working for you who have seen it all.

Take the first step to protecting your business from the threat of ransomware. Contact 101 Digital. Together, we will build a strategy to fight off ransomware attacks, reduce downtime in the event of an attack, and minimize potential damages. We will help you understand all of your options so that you can avoid paying a ransom that may not even get your system unlocked. Our team is ready to defend your business, contact us today.