Ransomware is a common tool used by online thieves. According to Statista, there were 304 million ransomware assaults globally in 2020, a 62 percent rise from the previous year. All industries are susceptible to these ransomware assaults, which, if successful, leave a stain on the company they target’s financial reports. The success of these attacks serves as a reminder of the bad endpoint protection methods and strategies that affect businesses of all sizes and in all industries. Because of this, the majority of businesses react to ransomware rather than preparing for it, which costs money in staff time and is obviously bad for their brand.
Myth 1: A zero-day assault is ransomware.
In actuality, it costs money for a hostile actor to exploit a Zero-day vulnerability. In truth, the majority of malware targets well-documented and simple-to-fix known vulnerabilities that are still unpatched. Therefore, the best method to reduce the threat of ransomware and, in fact, the majority of “targeted” assaults, is to follow a regular program of patching and endpoint system updates within 30 days of becoming accessible.
Myth #2: The best design is one that uses flat networks.
Because attackers get past perimeter security measures and web-facing applications, many ransomware operations succeed. Due to the majority of networks being flat or unsegmented, it is simple for attackers to get extensive organizational access. The best course of action is to segment network assets into trust zones and enforce traffic flow regulations. A segmented network, as opposed to a flat network, reduces the impact and blast radius of a potential data breach. One step in building business resilience is limiting risk and exposure.
Myth #3: Perimeter security measures and antivirus software are enough.
Since it has been in use for more than 20 years, signature-based protection is a crucial and useful defense technique. However, attackers are familiar with this strategy and may simply avoid it. It is important to take into account Endpoint Detection and Response solutions supported by monitoring and analytics in addition to signature-based anti-virus solutions.
Myth #4: The best design is one that uses flat networks.
Because attackers get past perimeter security measures and web-facing applications, many ransomware operations succeed. Due to the majority of networks being flat or unsegmented, it is simple for attackers to get extensive organizational access. The best course of action is to segment network assets into trust zones and enforce traffic flow regulations. A segmented network, as opposed to a flat network, reduces the impact and blast radius of a potential data breach. One step in building business resilience is limiting risk and exposure.
Myth #5: Technology and tools are the only factors in ransomware.
Tools alone are insufficient to combat today’s constantly developing cybercriminals, even though essential products like SIEM and Endpoint Protection Platforms increase ransomware defense. Technology is only the tip of the iceberg in threat mitigation, as the image below illustrates. From social engineering and insider attacks to configuration errors that cause security vulnerabilities, cybersecurity and ransomware are a people issue. Given the growing threat of ransomware and commercial exploitation, the proper mix of people, process, and technology is crucial.
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