Ransomware – How To Protect Your Business

What is Ransomware?

Ransomware is the form of malware that has taken over news networks and even some computers around the world. It is a type of malicious software designed to block access to a computer system until a sum of money is paid to the hacker who created it. The FBI calls ransomware one of its ” biggest cyber-threats.”

This form of malware encrypts files on victims’ machines, making them inaccessible until the victim pays up by purchasing decryption keys from hackers.

While many older forms of ransomware relied on shady marketing practices for distribution, spambots are now being used en masse to spread this new variant throughout social media platforms like Facebook . Specifically, spambots post fake links onto users’ walls, enticing them to click the link and visit a malicious website hosting the ransomware. These links look legitimate at first glance, but in reality they all lead to a fake YouTube page that then redirects users to a phishing site where victims are prompted for their personal information. If entered, this data is sent straight to hackers who can then use it to steal money from users’ bank accounts.

What To Look Out For

The world of cybersecurity is facing an increasingly sophisticated ransomware threat, with attackers constantly devising new methods to exploit users on social media platforms. James Scott, a senior fellow at the Institute of Critical Infrastructure Technology, highlights the complexity of these new threats. Here’s a closer look at the evolving nature of ransomware and how it’s impacting social media:

Ransomware’s New Tactics on Social Media

• Infiltration via Legitimate Content: Attackers are using social media platforms to spread ransomware by embedding malicious links in seemingly legitimate content. This method deceives users into clicking on dangerous links.
• Spambots on Facebook: These bots post enticing links like “Watch Latest Video Clips Online” or “Hot Video,” which lead users to fake YouTube pages and then redirect them to phishing sites designed to steal personal and financial information.

The Wider Threat Landscape on Social Media

• Proofpoint’s Alarming Findings: According to a report by security firm Proofpoint titled “Social Engineering: The Hackers Weapon of Choice,” there is a significant rise in the use of malicious links on social media platforms, particularly Twitter.
• Exploiting Shortened URLs: Attackers often hide malware behind shortened URLs, making it challenging for users to recognize the threat. These URLs are frequently posted on Twitter to spread malware.
• Staggering Increase in Malware Posts: Proofpoint’s research revealed an astounding 3,900 percent increase in spam Twitter posts related to malware and exploits from January 2015 to February 2016 compared to the previous 12 months.

Responding to the New Wave of Cyber Threats

Given the sophistication and frequency of these cyber threats, it’s imperative for users and organizations to stay vigilant and adopt robust cybersecurity measures. Awareness and education about the nature of these threats, coupled with advanced security solutions, are key to combating the evolving menace of ransomware and other cyber-attacks on social media platforms. Regular monitoring of online activities, cautious handling of suspicious links, and staying informed about the latest cybersecurity trends can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to these sophisticated attacks.

Ransomware Recovery and Response Planning

Staying ahead of ransomware threats requires proactive monitoring and intelligence gathering. Understanding the evolving landscape of ransomware can help organizations anticipate potential attacks and strengthen their defenses. Here’s what this involves:

• Threat Intelligence Gathering: Keeping abreast of the latest ransomware trends, tactics, and threat actors is crucial. Utilizing threat intelligence services can provide insights into emerging threats.
• Proactive Monitoring Systems: Implementing advanced monitoring tools that can detect unusual network activities or file changes can help in early identification of a potential ransomware attack.
• Collaboration and Information Sharing: Engaging in cybersecurity communities and platforms for sharing information about threats can enhance collective defense against ransomware attacks.

Effectively responding to and recovering from a ransomware attack is crucial for minimizing its impact. A well-prepared response plan can significantly reduce the damage and ensure a quicker return to normal operations. Here’s how organizations can prepare for and respond to ransomware incidents:

• Incident Response Plan: Having a clear and tested incident response plan is essential. This plan should outline the steps to take immediately after discovering a ransomware attack, including isolating affected systems to prevent further spread.
• Legal and Compliance Considerations: It’s important to understand the legal implications of a ransomware attack, including any requirements for reporting the incident to authorities and affected parties.
• Restoration and Analysis: After an attack, focus on safely restoring data from backups and analyzing the attack to understand how it occurred. This analysis can provide valuable insights for strengthening security measures.

How Companies Are Dealing With This Threat

Earlier this month, Facebook unveiled new social plugins designed to make its service more interactive and visual with the addition of camera effects, video chat and even more reactions for users.

However, the major downside is that they also make it easier for hackers to spread their malware via status updates shared among friends on news feeds throughout social media platforms. In fact, Proofpoint researchers discovered that over 85 percent of malware links sent out through Facebook were actually shared by legitimate accounts.

“We can expect cyber criminals will continue to develop new methods for delivering malicious links,” said Kevin Epstein , vice president of advanced security and governance at Proofpoint . “Legitimate actors need to be aware of these emerging threats and ensure they have the tools and processes in place to adequately protect their organizations.”

While Facebook has designed various apps and plugins that make sharing and engaging with its users even easier, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks involved when dealing with unknown links or shortened URLs.

“[Attackers] are finding new ways every day to come after us,” Epstein said. “The attack patterns we’re seeing develop are ever more complex…It’s a race.”

What You Can Do To Protect Your Assets

Check Point, a major cyber security firm, suggests users use an antivirus solution along with anti-spam technology designed specifically for Office 365 or G Suite . In addition, organizations should consider investing in a mobile threat defense solution capable of providing visibility into devices accessing company data and other resources.

Additionally, Check Point recommends users regularly back up all important business data since the recovery process may take several days depending on how much data has been lost.

Advanced Spam-Filtering Solutions

• Detection of Malicious Posts: Implementing advanced spam-filtering solutions is crucial. These systems are adept at identifying and filtering out malicious posts that could be linked to social engineering attacks.
• Automated Protection Mechanisms: The use of email gateways offering automated detection and triage capabilities is recommended. This technology helps in early identification and management of potential threats.

Implementing Advanced Threat Protection

• Email Gateways: Utilizing email gateways with advanced threat protection can provide an additional layer of security against email-based threats.
• Botnet Detection: Gateway-level botnet detection is also essential, as it helps mitigate threats that could compromise email security.

Educating Employees and Staying Updated

• Awareness Training: While completely defending against social engineering is challenging, educating employees about such cyber-attacks is vital. Regular training can significantly reduce the risk of successful attacks.
• Software Updates: Keeping up with software patches and updates from vendors is critical to protect against potential exploits.

Comprehensive Cybersecurity Strategies

• Antivirus and Anti-Spam Solutions: Check Point advises the use of antivirus solutions coupled with anti-spam technology, particularly for platforms like Office 365 or G Suite.
• Mobile Threat Defense: Investing in mobile threat defense solutions provides visibility into devices accessing company data, enhancing overall security.

Regular Data Backups

• Backup Important Data: Regularly backing up important business data is crucial. In the event of data loss, having up-to-date backups can significantly reduce the recovery time and impact.
• Recovery Preparedness: Since recovery processes can vary in duration, having a well-prepared plan is essential for quick and effective data restoration.

In summary, adopting a multi-layered approach to cybersecurity is key. This includes advanced spam-filtering, employee education, regular software updates, comprehensive antivirus and anti-spam solutions, and consistent data backups. By implementing these strategies, organizations can strengthen their defense against sophisticated cyber-attacks and minimize the risk of compromise.

In Conclusion

The landscape of cybersecurity is reaching a pivotal juncture, underscored by the increasing sophistication of threats like ransomware. Maya Horowitz, the Threat Intelligence Group Manager at Check Point, emphasizes the criticality of this evolution. Here’s a summary of the current state of cybersecurity and the imperative for businesses to adapt:

The Evolution of Cybersecurity

• A Critical Juncture: As noted by Maya Horowitz, we are at a crucial point in cybersecurity’s evolution, where the complexity and frequency of threats are escalating.
• The Need for Effective Solutions: With a myriad of security solutions available globally, it’s essential for businesses to discern and deploy the most effective tools tailored to their specific needs.

The Escalating Cost of Ransomware

• Staggering Financial Losses: The FBI’s report from last year highlighted that victims of ransomware attacks have suffered collective losses exceeding $1 billion, showcasing the financial impact of these cyber threats.
• Ransomware’s Prominence: Ransomware continues to stand out as one of the most significant cybersecurity challenges for businesses, necessitating increased vigilance and preparedness.

Preparing for Emerging Cybersecurity Threats

• Awareness and Readiness: Businesses must stay informed about emerging cyber threats like ransomware and understand their potential impact.
• Implementing Protective Measures: It’s critical for businesses to equip themselves with the right tools and processes to safeguard against these threats effectively. This includes adopting advanced cybersecurity solutions, regularly updating systems, and training employees on threat awareness.

In conclusion, the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity presents significant challenges, particularly in the realm of ransomware. Businesses need to recognize the severity of these threats and take proactive steps to fortify their defenses. This involves not only implementing the right technological solutions but also fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness. By doing so, businesses can navigate this challenging environment more effectively, ensuring their digital assets and operations remain secure in an increasingly interconnected world.