Cyber Security

Following last week’s global WannaCry cyber-attack we have been busy monitoring our clients’ IT systems to ensure that they have not been affected by the ransomware and of course, protecting them from further attacks.

We just wanted to remind you that the best way to steer clear of ransomware is to use your common sense and be vigilant.

• Do not open email attachments from senders you don’t recognise even if they look very convincing
• Avoid clicking links on dubious-looking websites.

What is Ransomware?

Ransomware is a malicious program that runs silently in the background encrypting your computer and your IT network until a ransom is paid via an untraceable currency, there is also no guarantees your files will be unencrypted even if the fee is paid.  It is not new but the scale of the WannaCry malware attack is unprecedented.  So far the estimate is 200,000 victims in 150 countries.

How do I get infected?

As with most forms of malware, the primary source of infection is an email attachment or malicious link. The senders use tricks to get you to open the attachment, such as pretending that it’s an invoice for something you’ve bought from a reputable company. This tactic preys on your fear of being charged for an item you didn’t buy, so that you’ll open the invoice without thinking about it.

Is it common?

Yes it is, and it’s on the increase.  According to the latest IT Threat Evolution report from Kaspersky Lab, from January to March 2016, ransomware attacks were recorded in 114 countries with more than 370,000 people targeted.  17% of which were in the corporate sector. The figures showed 30% more attacks than recorded in the previous quarter and this growth is showing no signs of slowing.

 

How do we protect your business?

Installing updates and patches

We regularly update our clients’ software, servers and devices, we recommend operating the latest systems to provide a layer of protection.

Firewalls and anti-virus

We also make sure that firewalls are installed and kept up-to-date as well as anti-virus software.

If you haven’t already got it, we can install our recommended software security suite, Bitdefender, that protects your device from the most common types of ransomware.

Back-up data

We conduct regular data back-ups for your business to ensure that you can restore your files in the unlikely event that you are infected.

 

We can carry out an assessment over your entire network to check you’re fully protected.

More information here about our IT Security services.  If at any time you’re concerned about your cyber security, please just give us a call 01273 806220.