It’s a few weeks since the NHS Ransomware disaster. Thankfully the hysteria in the press has died down, it’s no longer front-page news and the media have moved on to other topics. That’s not to say that the threat is no longer valid, it very much is and you need to be prepared for future attacks.
- Software Updates – Updates are crucial. You’ve got to keep your PC and Servers updated. Microsoft had released a security patch to fix the exploit used by the WannaCry Malware. Had the NHS installed that update, the disaster would not have happened.
- Antivirus Software – It’s now more apparent than ever that the free Antivirus software options available are just not up to the standard needed in a business environment. By all means continue to use them on your home PC if you wish, but in a business, you’re running a risk. Here in IT Monkey, we use and resell ESET Endpoint Security.
- Backups are Crucial – You must backup your data. There are a multitude of options available, from the basic built in File History in Windows 10, to a monitored Hybrid Local and Cloud based backup. Choose the correct one to suit your needs.
- Staff Training is Key – Junior staff getting emails from what looks like senior staff can lead to all sorts of problems. Staff must be advised and warned about opening unsolicited emails with dubious attachments. If you weren’t expecting an email with an attachment from someone, view it with suspicion. Contact that person to see if they did indeed send it to you. If not, bin it.
- Upgrade Old Hardware – Old hardware cannot run new software properly because the new specifications are designed for newer machines. Realistically, the oldest OS you should be running in your business is Windows 7. Unfortunately, we still come across versions of Windows from 95 to Vista and XP, all performing crucial roles. These PCs no longer get crucial security updates. Likewise, getting Antivirus for old PCs running old software can be a nightmare. I know you may be attached to those PCs, they’ve served you well up till now, but really they pose a greater risk to your security than their worth and it is time to retire them.
What to do if you do get a Ransomware infection?
Turn off the PC immediately and disconnect it from your network and seek professional help.
Obviously, we are more than happy to give advice on any of the topics above, so if you’d like more information on Software and Hardware Audits, Antivirus Software, or advice on our Hybrid Local and Cloud based backup, then find all the info you need HERE.
