3. Set your antivirus/antimalware and operating systems to update automatically. Install an antivirus or antimalware program, such as AVG or Malwarebytes. Set your antivirus and antimalware programs to update automatically.
Be sure that your operating systems are also set to update automatically. Updates for your operating systems are often developed specifically to combat new cyberattacks and provide “patches” for the holes in your system’s security.
4. Look into third-party solutions. Before you are hit by ransomware, look into the possibility of a “zero-dollar retainer” with a cybersecurity company, a way to engage the company’s services before they are needed and for free. This way, when the time comes for them to help, the formalities will already be in place and they will be ready to help you.
If you have more than a handful of employees, consider a third-party vulnerability assessment. Some reputable companies that specialize in these assessments are Ashland Partners and Winquest Cybersecurity.
If your company has already hired a managed service provider (MSP) to oversee its computers, make sure the MSP is performing annual vulnerability assessments. Get the schedule and the results of these assessments in writing.
What To Do If Your Advisory Firm Is Hit By Ransomware
Unfortunately, even if you have taken steps to protect yourself, you may still be at risk. So what do you do if your network gets infected?
First, disconnect the infected computer from your network; turn off the wireless card or pull out the network cable. Isolate the infected computer as much as possible. Then, call your cybersecurity company or your local IT personnel.
If you have external backups, a full recovery could be as simple as restoring your computer systems from your backups. If not, the options become limited by how critical your lost information is and how much you have prepared.
If you decide to contact a cybersecurity company, they may be able to “fight” the ransomware and decrypt your files. Most companies also guarantee the removal of the ransomware.
If You Don’t Have Backups, Should You Pay The Ransom?
Federal agencies are now recommending that you do not pay the ransom unless the information you will lose is life saving or time-sensitive. Recovering the data after you pay is not guaranteed; the hackers are often overwhelmed by the number of people paying the ransom and cannot keep up. Instead, contact your local law enforcement agency along with your cybersecurity company or IT personnel.