Preparing Your Business for a Ransomware Attack
Ransomware is a type of malicious software that infiltrates a computer or network and encrypts files, limiting or restricting access to critical data until a ransom is paid. One only needs to read or watch the news to realize that the frequency of these types of attacks is not only increasing, but so are the sums paid out to these hackers. There have been several high-profile attacks, including one in which Colonial Pipeline paid $4.4 million in crypto currency in 2021 and the University of California, San Francisco paid out $1.4 million in 2020.
Unfortunately, many small businesses believe because they are small, hackers will simply bypass them – this is not the case. Since 2016, it is estimated that over 4,000 ransomware attacks have occurred in the United States every day. Consider yourself fortunate if you haven’t been attacked yet.
Email phishing campaigns are one of the most common methods used by hackers to carry out a ransomware attack. According to ABC News, malicious emails are up 600% this year as a result of covid. All it takes is for an employee to click on a link in an email or open a document for the malware to begin and spread on their computer.
Ransomware Resources
How prepared is your company? The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), recently released a new module in its Cyber Security Evaluation Tool, the Ransomware Readiness Assessment. This tool evaluates a company’s readiness to defend against and recover from a ransomware attack and makes suggestions for improvement.
Here are some additional resources to assist you in better protecting yourself from cyber threats:
- “How to Protect Your Networks from Ransomware”, U.S. Government interagency
- Ransomware Guidance and Resources, The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency
Preparing for and defending against ransomware or other cyberattacks is more important than ever. However, many small businesses lack the resources or don’t know where to begin when it comes to developing and sustaining a program that works for them. There are steps a company and its employees can take to mitigate this risk. For more cyber considerations, find a team member near you at INSURICA.com/our-team today.
About the Author
Share This Story
Related Blogs
Flexible Compensation: A Necessary Evolution
In today’s fast-evolving job market, flexible compensation is redefining how companies attract and retain talent. Traditional pay structures, once seen as stable and predictable, are now losing appeal, particularly among younger professionals who prioritize personalized benefits over rigid salary scales. While flexible compensation models have gradually emerged since the early 2000s, the post-pandemic work era has rapidly accelerated their adoption—driven by shifting workforce expectations, economic volatility, and the rise of remote work and gig employment.
Balancing Employee Wellbeing and Financial Pressures
In today’s economic climate, businesses are facing rising costs and inflationary pressures, leading to a fundamental reassessment of employee benefits programs. While mental health and wellbeing initiatives remain a priority for employers, there is a growing demand for measurable impact and cost-efficient solutions rather than superficial perks. As companies strive to balance budget constraints with competitive benefits, the future of workplace wellness is shifting toward strategic, high-value programs that support employee health without breaking financial sustainability.
How Businesses Are Using Data Analytics to Optimize Employee Benefits Engagement
In today’s competitive job market, businesses are increasingly leveraging data analytics to enhance employee benefits engagement, ensuring that workers fully utilize available resources. Traditional benefits programs often suffer from low participation rates due to lack of awareness, complexity, or misalignment with employee needs. By integrating data-driven insights, companies can personalize benefits offerings, improve communication strategies, and maximize employee satisfaction while optimizing costs.