Backup & File Sharing, SecuriSync Backup and File Sharing, Security
Worldwide ransomware attack: what you need to know
When the enemy is quiet, the defense gets complacent. In this case, when ransomware news settles, you can be almost certain that it’s a sign of something big brewing. Over the last year, the ransomware industry has grown into a $1B business. Why such success? Because cybercriminals proved that the approach works.
…So while companies felt like they had the proper security solutions in place to fend off these phishing attacks, hackers were chipping away at this latest security threat.
A massive ransomware attack has hit 74 countries with more than 45,000 attacks in just 10 hours. The ransomware strain is called “WannaCry”. It works by locking down access to all the files on an infected computer and then demands a ransom to regain control of them. The ransomware is spreading by way of a Microsoft® (MSFT, Tech30) Windows exploit. An interesting element of this strain, affected machines are being given just a few hours to come up with the ransom. If they don’t pay in time, the ransom amount continues to go up.
Prevention
How can you prevent this growing worldwide threat from freezing your business operations? I spoke with our VP of Security & Privacy, Ryan Barrett, and he had this to say:
“Firstly, let me confirm that Intermedia systems and services are protected against this vulnerability. Be aware however that your own systems may be at risk. This threat is propagating rapidly. Intermedia advises companies to immediately update both their desktop and Windows® systems with the Microsoft patch (MS17-010). Next, notify your users to be extra cautious right now. Even clicking on a suspicious attachment could instigate a ransomware attack, or cause further downloads to occur.”
Microsoft has extended the security update to all versions of Windows, even unsupported ones. So Ryan recommends that companies install the update as soon as possible. You can visit Microsoft’s blog for guidance.
He also recommends that you backup your files with SecuriSync® from Intermedia to allow for quick recovery in the event you do fall victim to a ransomware attack. SecuriSync provides one secure solution for file management. It offers real-time backup of all desktop files plus Windows file servers together with mobile access to files and file sharing capabilities. SecuriSync starts at just $4.99 per user, far less than the price of a file sync and share service plus a backup service. It’s easy to get started with SecuriSync – contact Intermedia at 800-379-7729 and we can get you set up quickly.
Now through the end of May 2017, new SecuriSync customers and partners can get one month free.
30 Day Free Promo: SecuriSync 10 GB, 100 GB, and Unlimited packages are eligible for this promotion. To be eligible, customers must be in good standing with Intermedia and not be in violation of any relevant agreements or policies or be past due on any obligations. Intermedia reserves the right to discontinue, or change the terms of, this promotion at any time.
Microsoft and Office 365 are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. SecuriSync is either a trademark or registered trademark of Intermedia.net, Inc. in the United States and other countries.
