Last week, the NHS hospital network in the UK reported a major cyber attack that quickly expanded across the globe, affecting nearly 150,000 companies in 150 different countries. The attack, known as WannaCrypt or WannaCry, originated from a particular form of ransomware targeting “unpatched” and outdated Microsoft Windows file-sharing software. The WannaCrypt ransomware infects devices and then restricts users’ access to their files until a ransom is paid. The attack was eventually disarmed; however, experts warn that attackers could slightly modify the ransomware and launch another attack at any time.

STEPS TO PROTECT YOUR DATA

While individuals and organizations cannot anticipate and combat every ransomware or other cyber-security threat, there are steps to take that decrease the likelihood of becoming the victim of an attack.

• Update your software: Ransomware is most effective at targeting outdated and unpatched versions of Windows Software. Ensuring that your Windows operating system is up to date with the most recent security and software updates, which patch any holes and vulnerabilities in the software, makes it much more difficult for a hacker to infiltrate your system and networks. Keep Windows Update turned on, so that you are automatically prompted to download and install these updates.

• Avoid clicking on suspicious emails: Many ransomware attacks are initiated through an infected link in or attached to an email. When a user clicks on the link or attachment, the ransomware is activated on the user’s device and then flows through the user’s network. Be wary not only of emails from unknown or unfamiliar email addresses, but also unusual or out-of-character emails from those addresses that are familiar. If you are unsure whether an email from a client, colleague, or friend was truly sent by that individual, follow up with a phone call before clicking on any link or attachment.

• Ensure your information is backed up: If you or your organization is affected by ransomware, the machine you are using and the files located on its hard drive and/or network may be lost. However, if these files are backed up on an offsite or external storage device, you can access uncorrupted versions of these files on a different machine. Ensuring that your devices and networks are frequently backed up limits the likelihood of a permanent loss of your files and data.

• If your device or network is infected by WannaCry or other ransomware, do not automatically pay the ransom. The hackers do not always release the ransomed data and files after receiving payment. Additionally, sometimes data can be recovered without paying the ransom. The best course of action is to contact an IT or Cyber Security professional to assist you in analyzing and minimizing the attack.