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What is a ransomware attack?

Ransomware is a form of malware that prevents users from accessing their devices and any data stored on them. This is usually achieved by encrypting the data. The criminals behind the malware are essentially holding your data hostage, and will demand a ransom in exchange for decryption. They may also threaten to leak your data if the ransom is not paid.

How does ransomware work?

1

Access

Attackers gain access to your network. They establish control and plant malicious encryption software. They may also take copies of your data and threaten to leak it.

2

Activation

The malware is activated, locking devices and causing the data across the network to be encrypted, meaning you can no longer access it.

3

Ransom demand

Usually you will then receive an on-screen notification from the cyber criminal, explaining the ransom and how to make the payment to unlock your computer or regain access to your data.

Payment is usually demanded via an anonymous web page and usually in a cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin
It is important to try and establish how the attackers gained access to your network in the first place so you can prevent future ransomware attacks.

Should you pay the ransom? 

According to the National Cyber Security Centre Law enforcement does not encourage, endorse nor condone the payment of ransom demands.

For this reason it is important that your business has an effective and comprehensive backup and disaster recovery plan in place and that you are confident that your backup includes all the necessary data your business requires to continue running. 

Your data is the crux of your business and losing your data can be catastrophic. To protect against this we offer on-premise, cloud and hybrid backup solutions to give the right backup and recovery solution for your demands. 
Learn More About Backups from IT3000

The National Cyber Security Centre

The National Cyber Security Centre website, www.ncsc.gov.uk, is a great resource and contains helpful information on how ransomware works, how you can prevent it and how to report it should you be the victim of an attack.
Learn More About Ransomware

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IT3000 Limited

At IT3000 we are an ISO 9001 and ISO 27001 accredited Midlands and South West based IT support/ managed services provider who specialise in providing IT support and services to organisations nationwide. Our extensive help desk team, as well as offices in Leicestershire and Dorset allow us to work with a wide variety of companies across the UK.
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