Over the past decade, the number of cyber-attacks targeting large companies has skyrocketed. Hackers are now upping their game from merely stealing data to freezing entire systems and asking for a ransom.
Ransomware, as it is popularly known, is giving cybersecurity experts a run for their money as they try to figure out a way around it. But, before we figure out a way to get rid of it, we can learn how to prevent ransomware attacks.
Tips on How to Maximize your Data Security
- Test your Security
Installing the best antivirus on your company’s computers cannot completely safeguard you from cyber-attacks. Like all other software, antivirus software has bugs and weaknesses. Hackers exploit these weaknesses to get into your system.
The best way to avert this risk is by hiring a professional cyber-security company like Egnyte to conduct a security audit. Once you identify all your system’s weaknesses, you can patch them up and make them safer than ever before.
- Use Strong Passwords
This might sound cliché, but it could mean the difference between having a safe or vulnerable system. Most companies don’t pay attention to their password policies, causing their employees to use simple, easily hackable passwords.
Hackers exploit these weaknesses to gain access to sensitive information and valuable data. Using strong passwords is the first step in securing your computer system. You should also make sure you change the passwords frequently.
- Delete Redundant Data
If your company deals with sensitive information such as health records, or financial data, you need an information disposal mechanism. Having a reliable information disposal system helps prevent sensitive redundant data from being forgotten and later stolen.
There are various computer programs available that can help you erase or modify data in an indecipherable way.
- Update your Programs Regularly
Your antivirus applications are only as good as their latest versions. Hackers are constantly learning to exploit weaknesses in early software versions. You should, therefore, ensure that your computer programs are properly patched and updated.
- Pay Attention to Insider Threats
Most companies invest heavily in safeguarding their security systems from external threats. Unbeknownst to them, some of the most damaging threats originate from inside. Their subtle nature makes them especially difficult to detect and prevent.
In most cases, the employees who instigate the attacks have no idea what they are doing. Just clicking an email can let ransomware into your system. You should, therefore, educate your employees on the dangers of opening unsecured emails and websites.
- Regularly Backup your Data
Nothing does it better than a good and reliable backup system when it comes to securing your data. A backup system can help you survive anything from a serious malware attack to a ransomware attack. That being said, it is vital that you store the backup data offsite, away from your business premises where it is vulnerable to attack.
Conclusion
With many businesses holding their clients’ personal information, cybersecurity has become more important than ever. After all, you don’t want hackers getting a hold of your sensitive data, do you?