Ransomware attacks continue to pose a serious threat to every business sector, forcing companies to face increasing risks. Last July, a bank in America experienced a damaging attack, resulting in the loss of 7.6 million important data records, as reported by TechCrunch the methods employed by ransomware perpetrators are becoming increasingly sophisticated, indicating that conventional security systems are no longer sufficient to protect a company’s valuable assets.
Given this evolving threat, it is crucial for every organization to understand what ransomware is and how its impact can devastate reputations and business operations. In this article, Virtus will unveil effective ways to tackle ransomware attacks to safeguard your company.
What is Ransomware and How Does It Work?
According to CISA, ransomware is a type of malicious software (malware) designed to lock or encrypt data on computers or systems. When ransomware infects a device, it locks important files and demands a ransom to allow the owner to regain access to their files. Typically, this ransom is requested in digital currency, such as Bitcoin, to maintain anonymity.
Ransomware operates by initiating an infection process. It usually enters the system through clicked links, malicious email attachments, or vulnerabilities in outdated software. Once infected, ransomware begins encrypting important files on the device, including documents, photos, and other data. After this process is complete, those files cannot be accessed without a decryption key.
Once the files are locked, ransomware displays a message informing the victim that their data has been encrypted and demands a ransom to receive the decryption key. This message often includes a deadline for payment. If the victim pays, there is no guarantee that they will receive the decryption key. Many victims choose not to pay due to the risks of losing money and not regaining access to their data.
Data Case Examples and the Impact of Ransomware on Business
According to edavos.com, here are explanations of two ransomware attack cases that have occurred in Indonesia:
1. Ransomware Case at a Sharia Bank
In May 2023, a ransomware attack affected the services of a Sharia bank in Indonesia. The incident began on May 8, when customers were unable to conduct transactions. Although the bank initially announced that the disruption was due to system maintenance, the issues persisted for several days without a clear resolution.
On May 10, the bank announced that they had experienced a cyber-attack, which was later claimed by the LockBit 3.0 ransomware group. This group demanded a ransom of over IDR 200 billion, threatening to leak 1.5 TB of customer data. Ultimately, ransom negotiations failed, and the bank decided to focus on system recovery while ensuring that no data was leaked.
2. Ransomware Case at the Central Bank
The next ransomware attack occurred in December 2021, targeting a central bank in Indonesia. As the year ended, the bank confirmed that they had experienced a ransomware attack managed by the “Conti” group. This attack only impacted the systems at the Bengkulu branch.
Although no critical data was leaked, the ransomware group reportedly uploaded some data to the dark web. In response to this situation, the bank took swift action to recover the system, conduct audits, and implement mitigation measures to prevent similar attacks in the future.
Effective Ways to Address Ransomware Attacks on Businesses
Facing a ransomware attack can be an extremely stressful experience for an organization. When such an attack occurs, it is essential to have clear recovery steps in place to ensure that systems can return to normal operation.
One of the initial steps to take is to prepare as thoroughly as possible before an attack happens. Having a well-developed recovery plan will provide confidence when facing an emergency situation. Additionally, the following steps can assist in the recovery process and ensure that systems are back up and running smoothly.
- Detection and Assessment: Use detection tools to identify the location and type of ransomware to determine recovery steps
- Disconnect: Disconnect all devices from the network to prevent further spread
- Remove Trigger Files: Identify and delete the files that triggered the attack from all devices to stop the infection
- Data Recovery: Once the ransomware is neutralized, restore data from secure backups, ensuring to scan the system with anti-malware software before restoring data
In addition to recovery steps, it is important to implement preventative practices. Make sure you have regular, immutable backups in place. Enforce strict security policies for all employees and be cautious of suspicious emails, links, and attachments, as these are often entry points for ransomware.
Read More: Threat Detection and Response: A Critical Element, but Not the Whole Solution
How Rubrik Can Help Companies Address Ransomware Attacks
Rubrik, through its partnership with Virtus, provides comprehensive solutions to help companies efficiently and effectively deal with ransomware attacks. Recognizing that ransomware attacks can have a significant impact on business continuity, Rubrik is committed to protecting customer data and ensuring rapid and secure recovery. Rubrik’s approach combines advanced technology and best practices to deliver comprehensive protection.
One key aspect of Rubrik’s service is the presence of the specially trained Ransomware Response Team (RRT). This team is ready to provide 24/7 support, assisting companies in formulating a comprehensive recovery plan during an attack. With their expertise, this team can quickly assess the situation, provide technical guidance, and help mitigate further risks. This ensures that companies can promptly take the necessary actions to minimize the impact of the attack.
Rubrik also offers solutions that include threat monitoring, ransomware investigation, and coordinated data recovery. By leveraging Machine Learning technology, Rubrik can detect suspicious changes in data in real-time, allowing for quick responses to potential threats.
The secure recovery process ensures that companies can restore data from backups unaffected by ransomware. With Rubrik from Virtus, companies can not only recover from ransomware attacks but also strengthen their resilience against future threats, ensuring better operational continuity.
Advantages of Rubrik for Protection Against Ransomware Threats
Quick and Efficient Recovery
Rubrik enables organizations to quickly recover their data and systems after a ransomware attack, minimizing downtime and operational impact.
Real-time Threat Detection
With Machine Learning technology, Rubrik can detect suspicious activities and changes in data in real-time, allowing for swift responses to potential threats.
Holistic Approach
Rubrik combines various solutions such as threat monitoring, sensitive data management, and coordinated recovery, providing comprehensive protection against ransomware attacks.
24/7 Support from Experts
The RRT is ready to provide technical support and recovery strategies at any time, helping organizations effectively tackle attacks.
Reinfection Prevention
Rubrik’s solutions ensure that restored data is safe from reinfection by quarantining infected data and conducting ongoing monitoring.
Enhancing Cyber Readiness
With faster recovery testing and validation in isolated environments, Rubrik helps organizations improve their readiness and response to future cyber-attacks.
Simplifying Recovery Processes
With pre-built recovery workflows, Rubrik simplifies application and data recovery, making the process more straightforward and directed.
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Enjoy all these benefits at a more efficient cost! Rubrik offers a Lower TCO, allowing you to save costs of up to 30-50 percent. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to enhance your company’s data resilience while reducing expenses.
Contact Virtus for Ransomware Prevention Solutions from Rubrik
Facing ransomware attacks has never been easier with Rubrik’s solutions. With standout features such as continuous data protection, instant recovery, and cost savings of up to 30-50 percent, Rubrik ensures your company remains safe and productive. You will also receive 24/7 support from the experienced Ransomware Response Team, enabling you to minimize risks and downtime caused by cyber-attacks. With Rubrik, you are not only protecting data but also ensuring better business continuity in the future.
Don’t wait until it’s too late! Contact Virtus Technology Indonesia (VTI), part of the CTI Group, for more information about Rubrik’s ransomware prevention solutions. Our team is ready to assist you with tailored consultations to meet your company’s needs. Protect your data and the future of your business today with Rubrik.
Author: Ary Adianto
Content Writer CTI Group