It\u2019s one of the scariest risks a business owner can face. Rogue hackers gain access to your computer system and data, lock you out, and hold your data hostage until you pay a ransom.<\/p>\n
It sounds like science fiction. But ransomware attacks have grown into a global threat, with devastating consequences for the victims. They disrupt operations, compromise data, jeopardize customers and suppliers, and create a serious financial burden. And not only large corporations and government agencies are at risk. Midsized businesses, smaller businesses, and even home networks are increasingly being targeted. According to FBI statistics<\/a>, an average of 4,000 ransomware incidents occur every day, at an annual cost of $1 billion.<\/p>\n How Does Ransomware Work? <\/strong><\/p>\n Hackers find a vulnerability in an organization\u2019s system and install malware, virtually taking control of their systems and \u201cstealing\u201d their files. In many cases, hackers gain access to your systems when employees unknowingly click on an email link.<\/p>\n The hackers then demand a monetary ransom to return or restore the files. They might ask for a nominal amount, or they might demand millions of dollars, and business owners are forced to either pay or figure out how to recover their systems and data on their own.<\/p>\n What If It Happens to Your Company?<\/strong><\/p>\n If the unthinkable happens, how you respond is critical. Never try to handle an incident alone. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the Multi-State Information Sharing & Analysis Center (MS-ISAC) have released an in-depth guide<\/a> with recommendations for reducing your risks and a step-by-step checklist for how to respond. Here are some basic steps to take if it happens to you:<\/p>\n Minimize Your Risk<\/strong><\/p>\n Before your organization becomes a victim of ransomware, take measures to reduce your exposure:<\/p>\n\n
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