Everything you can image is connected to the internet. Your home security, car, phone and so many other devices. The world is going “Io-T” Internet of Things which is the term coined to describe the proliferation and expansion of devices that are connected to the internet. With everything connected, how you maintain security is a more pressing issue than ever before. Proof of this are the ransomware and related criminal activities on the rise.

Imagine coming into your office one day and not being able to work – as if the carpet was pulled out from under you.  Ransomware attacks can affect individuals and entire organizations, in some cases leading to organization-wide shut-down. The cost of disruption and cleanup, as well as personal unrest of such a violation is enough to set you on edge.

Manufacturing organizations, businesses, and even churches and police departments have not been able to evade the covert and destructive intentions of cybercriminals behind engineered attacks.  

So what can you do to protect your business?

Protecting yourself against ransomware includes establishing preventative measures on your systems and educating your personnel on how to watch out for the disguised intruder.

1. Make sure you have standard security policies in place within your organization.
   • Password resets
   • Screen savers with passwords and time outs
   • WiFi connections with passwords
   • Purchase and use Anti-Virus software and make sure every PC and Laptop has it installed and it is kept up-to-date.
   • Establish a list of allowed software for your PC and create Group Policies that prevent software from being installed that is not on an allowed list.
   • Establish a communication channel that your employees can use to report lost or stolen equipment and devices or send suspicious emails and spam.
   • Use Spam Filters from your ISP or Email Servers
2. Do not open email attachments unless you are very sure of the source. Many of the ransomware aimed at organizations come in as Invoices or Resumes.’ If an email looks suspicious or out of character then delete it immediately.
3. Never open spam email – delete or junk it, and report to your IT personnel.
4. Backup your data and personal files on a routine basis to the cloud or external source that can be secured itself.
5. Always scan external devices such as USB drives. In many cases you can even disable the USB on computer so that vector can be shutdown.
6. Use encryption software on Laptops and PCs for an added layer of protection.

Awareness is half the battle so take action and review and refresh your own awareness and pass this on to others. Make sure your organization is as bullet proof as possible by informing staff and reviewing your infrastructure to prevent attacks. You’ll rest easier at night knowing you’ve done everything you can to stop intrusions.