How to Prevent the Impact of Ransomware

Explore the elements that constitute a robust cyber security strategy. Learn about the types of Security Tech and Security Policies you need to prevent Ransomware.

Verizon’s Data Breach Investigations Report found that 74% of all breaches were a result of human error due to social engineering. This statistic is based on the analysis of 16,312 security incidents and 5,199 breaches. This report puts Ransomware as the cause of 24% of all breaches. It also puts the cost of 95% of all security incidents at $1 million – $2.25 million dollars. Apart from Ransomware, the report states that a variety of different techniques were used to gain entry to an organization, such as exploiting vulnerabilities (5%), phishing (12%), and using stolen credentials (49%). 

With over a decade of experience in supporting organizations to meet compliance and cybersecurity requirements, our certified experts have recommended a 2 pronged approach to preventing the devastating impact of Ransomware. It involves using Security Tech with Security Policies and Procedures. This approach is useful against all cyber attacks and data breaches and is in keeping with industry best practices. Before you select Security Tech for your organization, we recommend undergoing a Security Risk Analysis to detect areas of improvement and work with a CISO or vCISO to design a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy.

Preventing the devastating impact of Ransomware has 2 essential elements

How to Prevent the Impact of Ransomware

 

1. Security Tech

2. Security Policies and Procedures

 

To prevent the impact of ransomware, you need to ensure your cyber security strategy has a perfect sync between these elements. In the infographic above, you will notice several duplications. Organizations need to implement security tech and embed their usage into their security policies and procedures to complete the cycle. By training employees, personnel on contract and vendors who work with sensitive information, you can ensure that potential loopholes are plugged before they can be exploited by hackers. 

Explore details of security tech and vendors whom we trust in our previous blog – Technologies To Detect And Prevent Ransomware Attacks. In this blog, we will focus on the second element.

 

 

 

Security Policies and Procedures to Prevent Ransomware

Here are several ways organizations can prevent ransomware through their policies and procedures:

1. Endpoint Protection:

Most ransomware attacks stem from end devices such as laptops, desktops, and mobile devices linked to the organization’s network Implement robust endpoint security solutions, including antivirus and anti-malware software, host-based intrusion detection systems (HIDS), and endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools on all devices connected to the network. These tools can detect and block malicious activities and provide real-time threat intelligence. Regularly update and monitor these solutions to detect and block ransomware threats.

2. Incident Response Plan:

If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. Develop a comprehensive incident response plan that outlines the steps to be taken in case of a ransomware attack. The plan should include roles and responsibilities, communication procedures, and steps for isolating and containing the infection. It should also include backup restoration processes, contact information for relevant stakeholders, notifying appropriate personnel, and engaging with law enforcement, if necessary.

3. Regular Security Audits and Assessments:

Conduct periodic security audits and assessments, including vulnerability scans and penetration tests, to identify and address potential weaknesses in the organization’s security infrastructure. This is critical since the security posture of modern day organizations changes very fast. This helps identify vulnerabilities that could be exploited by the most recent ransomware attackers. It also helps organizations design initiatives for proactive remediation and continuous improvement of security controls.

4. Cyber Liability Insurance:

Consider obtaining Cyber Liability Insurance coverage to help mitigate the financial impact of a ransomware attack. Review the policy terms and conditions carefully to understand what is covered and ensure it aligns with the organization’s specific needs.

5. Employee Training and Awareness:

Educate employees about the risks of ransomware and provide regular training on best practices for email and internet usage. This includes recognizing suspicious links and attachments, following safe browsing practices, avoiding clicking on unknown links, being cautious about downloading files from untrusted sources, practicing good password hygiene and how to identify and respond to potential ransomware threats. This helps create a security-conscious culture within the organization.

6. Strong Password Policies:

Enforce strong password policies that require employees to use complex, unique passwords and change them regularly. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) should also be implemented to add an extra layer of security. Encourage the use of password managers to ensure unique and secure passwords for each account.

7. Secure Remote Access:

Establish strict policies for remote access to organizational systems and data. This may include the use of virtual private networks (VPNs), multi-factor authentication (MFA) to authenticate remote users and other secure remote desktop protocols. Remote access should only be granted to authorized personnel and with appropriate security measures in place. This prevents attackers from exploiting weak or unsecured remote connections.

8. Regular Software Updates and Patching:

Maintain an up-to-date inventory of software and systems. Develop a policy that mandates the timely installation of security patches and updates for operating systems, software applications, and network devices. Many ransomware attacks exploit known vulnerabilities that can be mitigated by keeping software up to date.

9. Least Privilege Principle:

Implement the principle of least privilege, where employees are only given the access rights necessary to perform their job functions. Restricting access limits the impact of a ransomware attack by minimizing the number of systems and data that can be compromised.

10. Network Segmentation:

Ensure that your IT Team or your MSP divides the network into separate zones based on user roles, functions, and levels of sensitivity. Implement firewalls and access controls to restrict unauthorized access. This helps contain the spread of ransomware within the network and minimizes the potential damage caused by an attack.

11. Data Classification and Encryption:

Develop a data classification policy to categorize data based on its sensitivity and importance. Encrypt sensitive data at rest and in transit to protect it from unauthorized access, even if a ransomware attack occurs.

12. Backup and Disaster Recovery Plan:

Implement a robust backup strategy that includes regular and automated backups of critical data and systems. Store backups offline or in a separate, secure network at an isolated location to prevent ransomware from encrypting them. Develop a comprehensive disaster recovery plan to restore systems and data in the event of a ransomware attack. Test the backups periodically to ensure their integrity and reliability.

13. Email and Web Filtering:

Implement email and web filtering solutions that can identify and block malicious content, including phishing emails, attachments and websites distributing ransomware. These solutions can help prevent employees from inadvertently accessing malicious links or downloading infected files. Regularly update and configure these filters to enhance their effectiveness.

14. Restrict Execution of Unauthorized Software: Implement strict policies that restrict the execution of unauthorized or unknown software. This can be achieved through application whitelisting or using secure application sandboxing techniques.

15. Continuous Monitoring and Threat Intelligence:

Deploy robust monitoring systems to detect and respond to potential ransomware threats in real-time. Stay updated with the latest threat intelligence and information sharing initiatives to proactively defend against emerging threats. One solution that merges this with compliance and regulatory requirements is to use continuous compliance-based monitoring. This practice is subscription based and it monitors how well your security controls are functioning in real-time with regard to regulatory and compliance benchmarks.

16. Vendor and Third-Party Risk Management:

Implement a robust vendor and third-party risk management program to ensure that external partners and suppliers maintain adequate security measures. Ensure that they adhere to proper security standards to minimize the risk of ransomware infiltrating the organization through external connections This includes assessing their security practices, contractual obligations, and conducting regular audits.

By implementing these best practices, organizations can significantly reduce the risk of ransomware attacks and minimize the potential impact of any successful attempts. However, it’s important to note that cybersecurity is an ongoing process, prevention measures alone may not guarantee 100% security, and organizations should continuously adapt and improve their defenses to keep up with evolving threats.

How databrackets can help you prevent Ransomware

Experts at databrackets have extensive experience working with clients across a variety of industries. We have customized services to help you detect and prevent Ransomware. They include: 

  • Security Tech Consulting: Our certified experts understand your risk exposure and recommend best-in-class tools to mitigate the risks. 
  • Customized Policies and Procedures: Based on our assessment and after understanding your processes and procedures, we leverage our extensive policy templates and customize them for your organization. 
  • Customized Training: We customize our training content based on the roles in your organization and your existing procedures. 
  • Regular Compliance Audits: We conduct regular audits to support your business requirements for periodic regulatory and customer-contract based evaluation.
  • Regular Vulnerability Scans and Pen Testing: We conduct Vulnerability Scans and Third party Pen Testing periodically.
  • Managed Security Services: We offer managed compliance and security services to continuously monitor and update your security team about your security posture.
  • Backups & Disaster recovery: We help you design a plan & implement solutions for Business Continuity.

Our team has supported organizations across a wide variety of industries to align their processes with security frameworks like HIPAA, 21 CFR Part 11, ISO 27001:2022, SOC 2, NIST SP 800-53, NIST Cybersecurity Framework, NIST SP 800-171, GDPR, CMMC etc.

We are constantly expanding our library of assessments and services to serve organizations across industries. Schedule a Consultation if you would like to Connect with an Expert to understand how we can customize our services to meet your specific requirements.

Connect with an Expert
Schedule a Consultation
Start for Free

Related Links:

Technologies To Detect And Prevent Ransomware Attacks 

Sources of Ransomware Attacks on Healthcare Systems

What are the new controls added to ISO 27001 in 2022?

How to Select a Security Vendor

Author: Aditi Salhotra, Digital Marketing and Business Development, databrackets.com

Aditi is a Digital Marketing and Business Development Professional at databrackets.com. She graduated with honors in Marketing from Sheridan College, Canada. In addition to her current profile, she contributes to Product Development and Content Creation. She is a strong advocate of Good Cyber Hygiene and white hat SEO techniques. She is proud of the company’s mission to safeguard organizations from cyber threats and ensure their business continuity in adverse situations. 

Technical Expert: Srini Kolathur, Director, databrackets.com

The technical information presented in this blog has been carefully reviewed and verified by our Director, Srini Kolathur. Srini is results-driven security and compliance professional with over 20 years of experience supporting, leading, and managing global IT security, compliance, support, and risk assessment in fortune 100 companies. Some of his key areas of focus are SOC 2, ISO 27001, NIST 800-171, NIST 800-53, NIST Cybersecurity Framework,  HIPAA, Security Risk Assessment, CMMC 2.0 among others. He is a CMMC Registered Practitioner (RP), CISSP, CISA, CISM, MBA. He is active in several community groups including Rotary International and TiE.

Technologies To Detect And Prevent Ransomware Attacks

Learn which security tech can help you detect, prevent and stop the spread of ransomware

Verizon’s Data Breach Investigations Report puts the cost of 95% of security incidents at $1 million – $2.25 million dollars. The report is based on the analysis of 16,312 security incidents and 5,199 breaches. They found 74% of all breaches to be a result of human error due to social engineering. In terms of cyberattack methods, Ransomware constitutes 24% of all breaches and its popularity has been growing rapidly over the last few years. The report states that a variety of different techniques were used to gain entry to an organization, such as exploiting vulnerabilities (5%), phishing (12%), and using stolen credentials (49%). Following industry best practices and protocols is recommended by the analysts to safeguard organizations against breaches. 

With over a decade of experience in supporting organizations to meet compliance and cybersecurity requirements, our certified experts have identified various technologies to prevent ransomware attacks and enhance your cybersecurity posture. These are in keeping with industry best practices. We have also identified vendors with a successful track record and shared the list in the table below. The price point of implementing these technologies varies depending on your set-up. One way to ensure you are making the right choices for your organization is to undergo a Security Risk Analysis to detect areas of improvement and work with a CISO or vCISO to design a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy.

It’s important to note that while technology plays a significant role in preventing ransomware attacks, a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy should also include regular software updates, strong access controls, robust security policies, incident response plans, penetration testing and ongoing monitoring and assessment of security measures.

Security Tech To Prevent Ransomware Attacks And Enhance Your Cybersecurity Posture

Technologies To Detect And Prevent Ransomware Attacks

1. Endpoint Protection Platforms (EPP):

Most ransomware attacks stem from end devices such as laptops, desktops, and mobile devices linked to the organization’s network. EPP solutions are designed to secure individual endpoints such as laptops, desktops, and mobile devices. They provide antivirus, anti-malware, host-based intrusion detection/prevention systems and behavioral analysis capabilities using artificial intelligence to detect and block ransomware threats. EPPs often include features like real-time scanning, heuristic analysis, and threat detection and prevention. They scan files and processes in real-time, identify known threats, and block or quarantine infected files.

2. Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFW):

NGFWs combine traditional firewall capabilities with advanced security features. They use deep packet data inspection, application awareness, and intrusion prevention systems (IPS) to identify and block malicious traffic that may carry ransomware payloads. They often integrate threat intelligence feeds to stay updated on the latest ransomware signatures and indicators of compromise. NGFWs can also enforce policies for network segmentation and user access control.

3. Intrusion Detection/Prevention Systems (IDS/IPS):

IDS and IPS solutions monitor network traffic for potential security breaches and malicious activities. They can detect and block ransomware-related network communications, such as command-and-control (C2) traffic or attempts to exploit vulnerabilities. IDS provides real-time alerts for suspicious network events, while IPS actively blocks or mitigates potential threats. They can help detect and prevent ransomware attacks from spreading across the network.

4. Threat Intelligence Platforms:

Threat intelligence platforms collect and analyze data from various sources to identify emerging threats, including new variants of ransomware. By leveraging threat intelligence, organizations can proactively update their security measures and stay ahead of evolving ransomware threats.

5. Security Information and Event Management (SIEM):

SIEM tools collect and analyze security event logs from various sources, such as firewalls, network devices, endpoints, and servers. By correlating and analyzing this data, SIEM solutions can detect and alert organizations about potential ransomware attacks. They can identify patterns indicative of ransomware attacks and trigger real-time alerts for immediate action. They provide centralized visibility into security events, facilitate incident response, and enable proactive threat hunting.

6. Application Whitelisting:

Application whitelisting involves allowing only authorized applications to run on systems, blocking any unauthorized or malicious software, including ransomware. This approach prevents the execution of unknown or suspicious programs and restricts the ability of ransomware to infiltrate the network.

7. Network Segmentation:

Network segmentation involves dividing a network into smaller multiple isolated subnetworks, typically based on user roles. By segregating critical assets and limiting lateral movement, implementing firewalls and access controls to restrict unauthorized access, even if one segment gets compromised by ransomware, it won’t easily spread to other parts of the network. This strategy helps contain and mitigate the impact of ransomware attacks.

8. Patch Management Systems:

Regularly updating software and operating systems is crucial for preventing ransomware attacks. Patch management systems automate the process of identifying, deploying and verifying patches security patches. This ensures that systems are up to date and protected against known vulnerabilities. Automating this process reduces the chances of exploitation by ransomware or other malware that target known weaknesses.

9. Vulnerability Management Systems:

Regularly scanning and patching systems and software is essential to prevent ransomware attacks that exploit known vulnerabilities. Vulnerability management systems help identify vulnerabilities, prioritize their remediation, and ensure systems are up to date with the latest patches.

10. Data Backup and Disaster Recovery:

While they do not directly prevent a ransomware attack, having robust backup and disaster recovery solutions are essential for recovering from ransomware attacks. Regularly backing up critical data and ensuring its integrity allows organizations to restore their systems to a clean state in the event of a ransomware attack, without paying the ransom. Offline or off-site backups (isolating backups from the main network), using reliable backup solutions that enable fast recovery are particularly important to prevent ransomware from encrypting backup data, restoring their data quickly and minimizing downtime.

11. User Education and Awareness:

Educating employees about ransomware threats, best security practices, and how to identify and report suspicious emails or websites through regular security awareness programs can significantly reduce the risk of successful attacks. This is a critical investment in protecting your organization from security incidents and ensuring that your security tech is used appropriately.

12. Email Security Gateways:

Ransomware is commonly delivered through phishing emails or malicious attachments. Email security gateways employ advanced filtering techniques, including content analysis, spam detection, and URL reputation checks, to block malicious emails before they reach users’ inboxes.

13. Web Filtering and Content Security Solutions:

Web filtering technologies and content security solutions can filter internet traffic and prevent users from accessing malicious websites or downloading infected files. By leveraging URL filtering, reputation checks, and content analysis, these solutions can block known ransomware distribution channels, prevent accidental downloads and reduce the risk of employees inadvertently falling victim to phishing attacks.

14. Behavior-Based Threat Detection:

Advanced security solutions employ behavior-based analytics to detect ransomware attacks based on abnormal system or user behavior. By analyzing patterns, file access permissions, and file modifications, these solutions can identify ransomware activity that might not be caught by traditional signature-based detection methods.

Security Tech Vendors 

Sr. No.
Security Tech
Vendors
1
Endpoint Protection Platforms (EPP)
Crowdstrike, Sentinel One
2
Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFW)
Palo Alto Networks, Fortinet
3
Intrusion Detection/Prevention Systems (IDS/IPS)
Cisco, Fortinet
4
Threat Intelligence Platforms
Crowdstrike, Palo Alto Networks, Cisco Talos
5
Security Information and Event Management (SIEM)
Securonix, Splunk, MS Azure Sentinel
6
Application Whitelisting
(Included in NGFW)
7
Patch Management Systems
MS SCCM, Managengine, N-Able
8
Vulnerability Management Systems
Qualys, Nessus
9
Data Backup
Arcserve, Veeam, Carbonite
10
User Education and Awareness
KnowB4
11
Email Security Gateways
Proofpoint
12
Web Filtering and Content Security Solutions
Checkpoint, Cisco
13
Behavior-Based Threat Detection
Crowdstrike, Cisco

Disclaimer: We have recommended these vendors based on years of consulting experience. No other parameters have been considered for this list. 

It’s important to note that while these technologies can significantly enhance an organization’s security posture, a holistic approach that includes user education, security policies, and incident response planning is necessary to effectively combat ransomware threats.

 

How databrackets can help you prevent Ransomware

Experts at databrackets have extensive experience working with clients across a variety of industries. We have customized services to help you detect and prevent Ransomware. They include: 

  • Security Tech Consulting: Our certified experts understand your risk exposure and recommend best-in-class tools to mitigate the risks. 
  • Customized Policies and Procedures: Based on our assessment and after understanding your processes and procedures, we leverage our extensive policy templates and customize them for your organization. 
  • Customized Training: We customize our training content based on the roles in your organization and your existing procedures. 
  • Regular Compliance Audits: We conduct regular audits to support your business requirements for periodic regulatory and customer-contract based evaluation.
  • Regular Vulnerability Scans and Pen Testing: We conduct Vulnerability Scans and Third party Pen Testing periodically.
  • Managed Security Services: We offer managed compliance and security services to continuously monitor and update your security team about your security posture.
  • Backups & Disaster recovery: We help you design a plan & implement solutions for Business Continuity.

Our team has supported organizations across a wide variety of industries to align their processes with security frameworks like HIPAA, 21 CFR Part 11, ISO 27001:2022, SOC 2, NIST SP 800-53, NIST Cybersecurity Framework, NIST SP 800-171, GDPR, CMMC etc.

We are constantly expanding our library of assessments and services to serve organizations across industries. Schedule a Consultation if you would like to Connect with an Expert to understand how we can customize our services to meet your specific requirements.

Connect with an Expert
Schedule a Consultation
Start for Free

Related Links:

What are the new controls added to ISO 27001 in 2022?

How to Select a Security Vendor

Sources of Ransomware Attacks on Healthcare Systems

Can you have a Ransomware attack if you are HIPAA-compliant?

 

Author: Aditi Salhotra, Digital Marketing and Business Development, databrackets.com

Aditi is a Digital Marketing and Business Development Professional at databrackets.com. She graduated with honors in Marketing from Sheridan College, Canada. In addition to her current profile, she contributes to Product Development and Content Creation. She is a strong advocate of Good Cyber Hygiene and white hat SEO techniques. She is proud of the company’s mission to safeguard organizations from cyber threats and ensure their business continuity in adverse situations. 

Technical Expert: Srini Kolathur, Director, databrackets.com

The technical information presented in this blog has been carefully reviewed and verified by our Director, Srini Kolathur. Srini is results-driven security and compliance professional with over 20 years of experience supporting, leading, and managing global IT security, compliance, support, and risk assessment in fortune 100 companies. Some of his key areas of focus are SOC 2, ISO 27001, NIST 800-171, NIST 800-53, NIST Cybersecurity Framework,  HIPAA, Security Risk Assessment, CMMC 2.0 among others. He is a CMMC Registered Practitioner (RP), CISSP, CISA, CISM, MBA. He is active in several community groups including Rotary International and TiE.

Fortify your Cybersecurity – Test your defenses with Penetration Testing

Fortify Cybersecurity

This blog emphasizes the importance of testing cybersecurity measures. Companies can be confident that their data will be safe if they are frequently examined with VAPT. There is a false sense of security that the safeguards will protect them from a breach.

Consider this scenario

It was 2 pm on a lazy Thursday afternoon. Mr. Smith, the CEO of a reputed healthcare firm in his city, was preparing for a board meeting when he got the dreaded call about a data breach on their website. It had been a smooth couple of months, and this was the last thing he needed before a pitch to increase funding for new projects. It was a typical scenario that he prepared for – used MFA such as Password, Token, OTP, and Biometrics, etc. They even hired a certified CSO last year to create systems that would protect the company’s data. Why didn’t it work?

This scenario is a serious violation of compliance. It breaks customers’ trust. There is unpredictable downtime of operations & the brand image is shattered! It’s a CEO’s worst nightmare. All the additional effort in building the company’s image and increasing sales, despite the rising competition, building partnerships brings everything to a standstill.

As cybersecurity experts, we understand how to fortify your cybersecurity measures against such attacks. After implementing the best security measures in your industry, Certified VAPT experts at databrackets can test your defenses using an in-depth vulnerability assessment using industry-recognized standards such as NIST, OSSTM, PTES, ISO27001, GDPR, etc. and a hybrid approach to penetration testing.

The Offense is the Best Defense

Through Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing services, you can authorize an attempt of hacking via a web application into the network and find loopholes in the areas that need to be secure. At databrackets, we work with all 3 types of testing:

 

Areas of Penetration Testing:

Join the revolution against hacking

The real assurance that your data is secure is only achieved when it’s tested in an attacker mindset to defend your application/infrastructure against attackers.

Join the revolution against hacking and secure your web applications, mobile app, and infrastructure before known vulnerabilities are exploited. Click here to learn more about the services by cybersecurity experts at databrackets & gift yourself peace of mind.

databrackets Is Accredited By A2LA Inspection Bodies For ISO/IEC 17020:2012

databrackets is pleased to announce that it has been accrediation by A2LA as an cybersecurity inspection body for ISO/IEC 17020:2012

Cybersecurity Accrediation

databrackets is pleased to announce that it has been accrediation by the American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA) as an Cybersecurity Inspection Body for ISO/IEC 17020:2012

Continue reading

DevOps Security Best Practices

The DevOps approach gives security practitioners and testers an opportunity to integrate security in the very early stages of software development and deployment process. While it’s clear that security should be ingrained throughout the entire DevOps lifecycle, learn some of the best practices in the evolving practice for securing your DevOps shop.

Learn more by attending our free live 45-minute webinar on best practices for securing DevOps.

 

HIPAA Breach – Indiana Medical Records Service Pays $100,000 to Settle

Medical Informatics Engineering, Inc has paid $100,000 to HHS and has agreed take corrective action against the HIPAA breach.

HIPAA breach
HIPAA breach

May 23, 2019– Medical Informatics Engineering, Inc. (MIE) has paid $100,000 to the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and has agreed take corrective action to settle potential violations of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Privacy and Security Rules. MIE is an Indiana company that provides software and electronic medical record services to healthcare providers.

On July 23, 2015, MIE filed a HIPAA breach report with OCR following discovery that hackers used a compromised user ID and password to access the electronic protected health information (ePHI) of approximately 3.5 million people. OCR’s investigation revealed that MIE did not conduct a comprehensive risk analysis prior to the breach. The HIPAA Rules require entities to perform an accurate and thorough assessment of the potential risks and vulnerabilities to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of an entity’s electronic protected health information.

“Entities entrusted with medical records must be on guard against hackers,” said OCR Director Roger Severino. “The failure to identify potential risks and vulnerabilities to ePHI opens the door to breaches and violates HIPAA.”

In addition to the $100,000 settlement, MIE will undertake a corrective action plan to comply with the HIPAA Rules that includes a complete, enterprise-wide risk analysis.