Biggest Ransomware’ Attack In History

Friday witnessed one of the greatest global cyber-attacks to ever take place, affecting computer systems in over 100 countries, and leaving organisations such as the NHS, Renault and FedEx in disarray over the weekend as they reeled from the ransomware attack. Many people who hadn’t encountered such an attack before were left asking a number of questions:

Exactly what is ransomware?

Specifically, there are two types – one which encrypts files on a computer, and one which locks a user’s screen. Either way, both types of attack require a payment in order to be able to use the computer again properly, despite no guarantee of the data being restored – hence the ransom.

How does ransomware access my computer?

Users are ‘tricked’ into running programmes which contain the ransomware. For example by downloading email attachments or links which may seem to be from authentic sites or senders.

How can we protect ourselves against ransomware?

The NCSC (National Cyber Security Centre) recommends three measures to take to protect yourself or your organisation against being infected by such ransomware:

• Keep your organisation’s security software patches up to date
• Use antivirus software services
• Back up the data that matters to you on a daily basis and ensure that those backups are successful, because you can’t be held to ransom for data you hold somewhere else

At Infuse, we are able to offer a range of services which are able to predict and prevent attacks before they happen. If you are concerned about your IT security, get in touch with our team for a security audit and to learn more about how we can offer protection to your systems. Furthermore, if you spot any suspicious looking e-mails or “invoices”, don’t open the attachment. Instead – forward it on to the Helpdesk helpdesk@pkfinfuse.com so we can take a look.