Are you looking for information on ransomware? You’re reading the right article.
Cases of cyberattacks have been rapidly increasing over the years, with each new category of attack being more sophisticated than the last. The two industries most commonly targeted globally are financial services and health care. More specifically, small and mid-sized accounting firms have become deliberate and primary targets for hackers. This is due to the sensitivity of the data they keep, as well as their lack of the sophisticated cybersecurity infrastructure that the larger firms tend to have.
As accounting firms embrace remote working, their security needs have become more critical than ever. Although mobile devices offer much-needed convenience while working remotely, they have increased the firms’ cybersecurity risks.
What Is Ransomware? Ransomware is a type of malware designed to lock a user out of their systems. Once they are locked out, their data, computers, files, and networks are taken hostage by encrypting files and blocking owners’ access. Once data is encrypted, the attacker will demand payment (often via cryptocurrency) to restore files access. According to a report by the FBI, since January 2016, there has been an average of 4000 ransomware attacks daily.
Ransomware enters your system in various ways; downloads of malicious software from the internet, clicking on fake ads, or even removable USB drives. However, the most common way is through phishing.
Most Ransomware Is Delivered Via Phishing Schemes: Relying on human error, attackers trick end-users into activating malicious software often disguised in emails as attachments or links. These emails often look official as if they come from an authoritative source.
Recovering from a cyberattack is more expensive than preventing one. Most cybercriminals plan attacks to extort money out of accounting firms by demanding a ransom. According to a recent survey, paying the ransom doubles the cost of recovering from a ransomware attack. In reality, almost 40% of companies that pay a ransom never get their data back, and 73% of them are targeted later.
Therefore, you must take the necessary measures to protect yourself from a ransomware attack.
The following are cybersecurity measures that you should implement to protect your firm from cyberattacks:
In a high-risk industry such as accounting, keeping your data safe from a ransomware attack is crucial. As ransomware attacks become more sophisticated, so should your security measures.
Your firm needs reliable, up-to-date, and affordable cybersecurity solutions to keep your business operations running and minimize cybersecurity risks.
At Compunet InfoTech, we offer years of expertise and experience in providing businesses in Vancouver with reliable and tailor-made cybersecurity solutions.
Consult with us today to discover how we can help you keep your accounting firm’s network and data safe from ransomware attacks.
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