By now you have heard about the WannaCry ransomware attack affecting organizations around the world today. This serious threat isn’t just affecting large businesses, it is widespread. It could put your business at a standstill, so take it seriously. Make sure you backup your systems and keep a copy offsite. Install the patch, update your antivirus and run it now!
This criminal act poses a very real threat to the lives and property of innocent people and countries around the world. “This is inexcusable,” the official said. “The FBI, NSA, Homeland Security Department and others are working around the clock to stop the spread of this ransomware and bring the criminals behind this to justice”.
To read more, go directly to the Wall Street Journal.
Even if you only have one computer, download security updates as soon as they’re available – no matter what operating system you use. Hackers are constantly looking for security gaps. Don’t become an easy target. Close those gaps as soon as you discover them. Download and install updates right away. Most operating systems have a setting to download and install security updates automatically. Use it, and install updates on a regular schedule for your other software as well, including apps. Check at least weekly.
Tips from the FTC along with other things you can do to prepare for a ransomware attack
- Back up your files. From tax forms to family photos, make it part of your routine to backup and backup often… business, home and mobile devices. When you finish, log out of the cloud or your computer and make sure you unplug your external hard drives so hackers can’t encrypt and lock your back-ups, too.
- Think twice before clicking on links or downloading attachments and apps in your emails. Ransomware often is downloaded through phishing emails. You also can get ransomware from merely visiting a compromised site or through malicious online ads.
For more consumer information on how to protect your business today, go to the Federal Trade Commission blog.