Tag Archives: anti-virus software

Recent Virus Release: Issues With Ransomware

Recent Virus Release

How to avoid dangerous Ransomware

Although computer viruses have always been a problem in the workplace, nowadays, surfing the web is getting more dangerous than ever. Not only are there plenty of websites filled with dangerous viruses, but many developers might even try to trick you into downloading dangerous software.

For example, let’s say you were looking for a solution to update your computer, and there was a seemingly legit website that provided some download links. In reality, this could just be a trick to get you to download some dangerous software. Even worse, though, many times, you might even accidentally download ransomware.

Basically, it is a sophisticated piece of malware that blocks the victim’s access to his/her files. Obviously, though, that’s only the gist of it, and the malware can be a lot more dangerous than it appears at first glance. With that said, even though many businesses know how to handle computer viruses, ransomware is in a league of its own. Here are a few things businesses should know when dealing with ransomware, and how to prepare it.

#1. What Makes Ransomware So Dangerous?

As I had mentioned before, even though it blocks access to your files, that’s putting it mildly. Aside from encrypting and locking all the data on your computer, the hacker also demands a ransom. If the sum of money isn’t paid within a certain amount of time, all your files will be deleted. Another downside is that once your device gets infected, it’s nearly impossible to get rid of the virus. In fact, the FBI has even encouraged victims to pay the ransom, since it’s the only way out. With that said, the only way to truly beat this piece of malware, is by paying the ransom, or avoiding it completely.

#2. How Does Ransomware Affect Your Business?

Aside from the obvious, which includes deletion of your files, ransomware affects your business from a more personal perspective as well. A company’s reputation is essential to running a successful organization, and ransomware can have a major effect on this, especially when it comes to your loyal customers. Remember, whatever happens in the workplace will have an impact on everyone, especially if it’s security related.

For example, let’s say you had both your files and customer documents on one device. If they got deleted due to ransomware, imagine how this would affect your customers. Not only would they go to look for business elsewhere, but more than likely, they will tell other potential customers about the incident as well. In the long run, this could turn potential customers away from your business. After all, customers don’t want to hear excuses. They want a business that not only protects their data, but one that also knows how to respond in the event of any unexpected incidents.

#3. How Can You Protect Yourself?

As dangerous as ransomware is, it’s definitely not unbeatable. One of the key ways to protect yourself, is by making sure to avoid it, since it’s very difficult to get rid of once you’re infected. Not only do you need to be smart about the websites you visit, but also be cautious of suspicious files and emails. Make sure to scan everything before downloading it, and always have anti-virus software installed. By taking these precautions, not only are you preventing yourself from getting infected, but you’re also setting a good example for your employees in the workplace.

For more information about the recent impact of ransomware, why it’s so dangerous, and how it affects customers, feel free to contact us today at SystemsNet. We look forward to hearing from you, and assisting you in the best way possible.

Keeping it Clean: How to Keep Your Computer Virus Free

With more and more security threats present on the web, it is important to follow the proper protocol to keep your computer clean and virus-free.

With more and more security threats present on the web, it is important to follow the proper protocol to keep your computer clean and virus-free.

As quickly as computer and network security technology advances, it always seems that the hackers are one step ahead. This is a very important field, because a company’s data can be extremely sensitive. What would happen if a list of your clients and their contact information was to end up in the hands of a competitor? What if your customer’s payment information found its way onto the black market? Obviously, this would be disastrous. Even if it’s something small, a virus can cause all sorts of issues and delays in your day-to-day operation. Here are a few tips for making sure that your company’s computers and network stay virus free.

Employee education

Employees are, surprisingly, one of the biggest holes in the security of your network. Because of this, one of the most important things you should do to make sure your data stays secure is to educate your employees on the subject. Make sure they understand the importance of strong passwords and know what one looks like. Talk to them about phishing and how e-mails that look legitimate can actually be hackers’ attempts to gain access to the system. Make sure they understand how important it is that no one else gains access to the system under their name. Whether you have classes or send memos, do whatever it takes to make sure your employees know how important it is to protect your company’s network, and what their part is in it.

Limit outside access

Many companies allow their employees to work from home. This can improve efficiency and flexibility, but usually requires that the employee has access to the company’s network from home, over the internet. Although this is not a bad idea, you should keep a close eye on who has access, and how strong your security is at that portal. Carelessly granting outside access to your system can allow people who were not intended to have access to gain it.

Anti-virus software

It may seem obvious to some, but it’s important enough to mention anyway. Anti-virus software should be your last line of defense against code that should not be on your network. Anti-virus programs can get a little annoying sometimes, but the truth is that the results of not having it are much worse. Keep in mind that, while free anti-virus software does exist, it is mostly intended for individual consumers and doesn’t do much more than the basics. If you’re running a business, it is more than worth the cost of software that will protect you and your network.

Routine audits

Every so often, perhaps every quarter or so, take another look at your network security. Consider how your employees are doing, and whether or not you feel like they’re protecting your company. Take stock of how many people have access to your network, and how safe that access is. Evaluate your anti-virus software, and decide whether or not it’s still meeting your needs. Look at all aspects of the security of your network, and make sure everything is up to your standards. It may even be a good idea to bring in a security consultant every once in a while to point out anything that you might be missing.

A major breach in your network’s security can cause major problems for the continuity of your business. In some cases, it can even lead to the business closing for good. A virus can be all that it takes for this to happen. Make sure you’re protected against this catastrophe. Not quit sure if your network is as secure as it should be? Contact us. We can answer any questions you have and make sure everything is in order.