Protecting Your Company Against Ransomware 

Cybersecurity is a concern for many businesses, and most companies are directing more time, effort, and money into ensuring that their digital presence and files are secure. Many businesses approach this as a way to protect their customer information, proprietary product information, and company communications. Still, it’s also incredibly important for HR departments, as these groups house sensitive employee information, like direct deposit bank account numbers, addresses, and social security numbers. That’s why HR leaders and small business owners alike are taking cybersecurity more seriously and creating more processes to protect against ransomware.   

What is ransomware?   

According to CSO Online“Ransomware is a form of malware that encrypts a victim’s files. The attacker then demands a ransom from the victim to restore access to the data upon payment.” It’s common for hackers to target businesses across all industries, though financial and healthcare organizations are targeted frequently, probably due to the nature of their business and the information they collect and house regularly. Luckily, many businesses have seen a decline in these kinds of attacks in recent years, but they do still pose a significant threat to organizations if deployed against them.   

How can businesses protect themselves against ransomware?   

There are a few simple steps that businesses everywhere can enact to help protect yourself against ransomware threats.   

  • Pay attention to your networks and operating systems. Are they up to date, with all the latest updates installed? This will ensure there are fewer vulnerabilities to exploit. 
  • Restrict downloads and use administrators to oversee installs. Employees can unwittingly download malicious software and businesses can save themselves time and money by ensuring that professional IT administrators are the ones who authorize access to the necessary software and files.    
  • Install antivirus software. This is a simple step that can help detect malicious programs like ransomware as they arrive and prevent unauthorized applications from executing in the first place.  
  • Back up your data and files frequently and automatically. While this won’t stop malware attacks, it can help impede the damage and prevent the complete loss of crucial data and information.   
  • Educate your employees. Make sure employees know not to open suspicious emails or download any files that could be damaging. Teaching your employees how to recognize malicious communications can make your business safer.   
  • Hire the best IT professionals. The administration and education necessary to prevent damaging ransomware attacks are conducted by your IT or IS teams. Make sure you’re staffed with the brightest people who are up for the challenge and will monitor trends as they develop to help protect your business going forward.   

Hire the right IT experts 

If you’re looking for the best IT professionals for your business, our expert team can help. Get in touch today to find the most qualified candidates to help keep your business safe.   

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