Ransomware is one of the most popular types of malware encountered in the 21st  century. The software virus has been around for some time, but only recently became a major problem when it began affecting businesses instead of personal users.

What happens when you get hit by ransomware? You either choose to pay the ransom, which is typically a few hundred or thousand dollars worth of bitcoins to decrypt your files – or you simply lose all your data . While it may be a scary thought, ransomware attacks are becoming more and more common. In fact, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center reported that from April 2014 to June 2015, they received an 830 percent increase in victim reports.

That’s why it’s important to make sure your business is prepared for a ransomware attack by following these tips. If you don’t, you could end up paying for your data twice!

1.    Backups are a must: One of the easiest ways to avoid a devastating outcome from an attack is to make sure you have an up-to-date backup of your files.  Make sure to keep multiple, offline backups in case the ransomware tries to attack it (by encrypting them) as well.

2.    Update software: Ransomware typically spreads through phishing emails and other online scams that trick users into downloading it onto their computers. Make sure to always update your antivirus and other software to take steps against the newest forms of ransomware.

3.    Train employees: If a ransomware virus gets through onto a computer, chances are good that it’s going to try infecting every other machine on the network as well.  Train your employees how to be vigilant about updating their computers and software, as well as spotting the signs of a ransomware attack.

4.    Have a plan: If your business is ever hit with ransomware, it’s important to know exactly what you’re going to do before you pay the ransom or lose all your data.  Have an IT specialist create protocols for how to shut down computer systems.

Our security experts recommend that you use an antivirus solution to protect your company from ransomware. It is especially important if you use a SaaS email service, host files on external cloud services or access the Internet from various devices. Even having an antivirus subscription for your home computer is not enough. The best solution is to install a security solution on each device you use at work.

Protecting your business from ransomware is a priority for every administrator. It’s not enough to simply have a backup plan because you could also lose your backups in a ransomware attack. You need a strong security policy, up-to-date antivirus software and a good knowledge of the subject.

Should you pay the ransom if your business is hit with ransomware? No, never. The only time you should be thinking about paying for anything is when you’re trying to recover personal files that were encrypted by mistake. If you do end up paying the ransom, there’s no guarantee that your infected computer will be restored.

If your business is hit with ransomware, make sure you know what you’re doing before paying the ransom. Ideally, you’ll be able to recover your files using a backup program , but sometimes that just isn’t possible. Remember: there’s no such thing as 100% security when it comes to computers and software, so be prepared for the unexpected!

Taking these simple steps can help ensure your business stays safe from ransomware attacks in the future.  For more cybersecurity tips, feel free to visit our website here at Bayshore Interactive.