10 ways to stay protected against ransomware

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What is Ransomware

A malicious software designed to block access to a computer system until a sum of money is paid

Ransom usually in Bitcoin

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A very real threat

One of the most widespread and damaging threats facing internet usersIrish Independent article “this type of computer attack is now “rampant” in Ireland.” BBC article says there are now 124 separate families of ransomware with a 3,500% increase in attacks

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How Ransomware works

Propagates as a Trojan, entering a system through downloaded file or network service vulnerability System is restricted or locked when file openedMessage appears on user’s desktop explaining how ransom should be paid within set timeframeNetworked Windows back-ups are often deleted at the same time to prevent data recoveryAfter payment is made, a decryption key is provided

Ransomware will delete itself leaving encrypted files and ransom notes

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5 ways to protect against ransomware

1. Backup regularly and keep a recent backup copy off-site (and offline)

2. Don’t enable macros in document attachments received via email

3. Be careful with unsolicited attachments4. Don’t stay logged in as an administrator any longer than is

strictly necessary5. Avoid browsing, opening documents or other “regular work”

activities while you have administrator rights

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5 more ways to protect against ransomware

6. Install Microsoft Office viewers7. Keep your operating system and software up-to-date with

the latest patches8. Stay up-to-date on new security features added to your

business applications9. Set Notepad to open .JS files by default10. Show files with their extensions

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Finally……..

Read more on the Trilogy blog Download the Sophos white paper

And make sure you promote a Security Awareness Culture in your organisation

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www.trilogytechnologies.comManaged services company of the year 2015Business IT Services company of the year 2016