As technology continues to improve, so do the skills of cyber criminals looking to hijack your company’s digital assets via ransomware. In fact, ransomware attacks on businesses in the first quarter of 2019 increased by 95% following the fourth quarter of 2018. Due to threats like this, enlisting the support of a professional security service is crucial for businesses. Learn more about ransomware and how to protect your business against this modern threat.

What Is Ransomware?

Ransomware is a type of malware that blocks access from a computer system or data. The attacker demands a ransom for access to this system or data, typically payable in the form of Bitcoin or another cryptocurrency. These attacks can be extremely damaging, locking up technological resources essential to daily operations at businesses, hospitals, and even city governments. One of the most recent high-profile victims of ransomware attacks is the city of Baltimore, which paid a ransom of over $75,000 — but faced costs of $18 million due to the attack’s effects.

How to Protect Your Business from Ransomware Attacks

Once a system is infected by ransomware, recovering data can be a difficult and time-consuming endeavor. That’s why it’s so important to take measures to protect your business from these attacks. In addition to working with a quality security service, make sure your business is following these steps:

• Stay On Top of Your Security Systems: Antivirus software, firewalls, and other computer security software can detect malicious programs when they arrive and block them from your network. Prevention is essential when it comes to fighting ransomware attacks.
• Back Up Data Off-Site: Because ransomware targets your files and data, it’s essential that all of your local data is regularly backed up to an external server, either physical or virtual (such as a cloud server). This will let you access up-to-date copies of your files without having to pay a ransom.
• Keep Your Systems Updated: Many types of ransomware systems are designed to target software vulnerabilities. This is why it’s essential to install new patches and security updates whenever they’re released. 
   

To safeguard your company from ransomware attacks, contact the security service experts at OhmComm, Inc. in Philadelphia, PA. For more than 20 years, they’ve helped businesses throughout the Mid-Atlantic region protect their sensitive data with HIPAA-compliant security services. They also provide access control systems, data recovery, business computer support, and other IT services. Visit their website for more information, or call them today at (215) 467-1444.