How to outsmart ransomware and build resilience within your organisation
Ransomware is growing more dangerous every day. Strains like LockBit 3.0 lead the attack, while other groups like Clop, BlackCat/ALPHV, and Royal constantly change their strategies to catch businesses off guard. These ransomware groups have evolved tactics, shifting from single to double and even triple extortion models. For example, LockBit 3.0 uses a triple extortion strategy, demanding a ransom for encrypted data while threatening to release sensitive information and further disrupting operations if the ransom is not paid.
Attackers no longer rely on a single approach; they use a combination of strategies, including phishing and exploiting software vulnerabilities. This makes it increasingly difficult for organisations to keep up, as they're dealing with highly organised, sophisticated threat actor groups continuously innovating and exploiting new weaknesses.
With that in mind, how can organisations stay ahead and protect themselves? Here are some strategies to strengthen their ransomware resilience:
1. Identify gaps before attackers do
One of the most effective ways to prevent ransomware is by regularly finding and fixing network weaknesses. Penetration testing helps identify those 'doors and windows' that cybercriminals might exploit. But it doesn't stop there. Advanced threat detection tools powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning also play a key role in real-time monitoring networks. These systems flag suspicious activities, warning early before an attack can cause real damage. Combining these approaches keeps organisations ahead of attackers and closes off potential entry points before they can be exploited.
2. Block the most common entry point
Phishing remains the primary way ransomware infiltrates organisations. It's a tried-and-tested tactic for cybercriminals because it works consistently. Whether it's a seemingly harmless email or a carefully crafted fake message from a trusted supplier, phishing tricks employees into clicking dangerous links or revealing sensitive credentials. Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) also helps attackers craft more convincing emails with improved spelling and grammar, making them harder to detect at every stage. Regular, engaging phishing awareness programs are crucial to significantly reduce the risk of employees falling victim to phishing attempts. A single security session isn't enough. Ongoing education keeps cybersecurity a priority throughout the organisation and turns employees into a critical line of defence.
3. Prepare an incident response plan
Ransomware attacks are fast and furious. Once an organisation has been hit, every minute counts. That's why having a clear and well-rehearsed incident response plan is essential. This plan should cover key areas such as data backup and recovery, containment of the ransomware, communication protocols, and identification of affected systems. Organisations should run through their plans with all teams to ensure that everyone knows their role when an attack happens. A years-old plan tucked away in a drawer won't suffice; it needs to be dynamic, current, and fully understood by everyone, from IT staff to C-level executives.
Ransomware is still a significant threat across all industries; however, businesses that take proactive steps are in a much better position to reduce their risk of infection and return to normal business operations. Regular penetration testing, phishing awareness, layered email security, advanced threat detection, and a comprehensive incident response plan all help build resilience. Cybersecurity providers offer the expertise and solutions to put these defences in place. With a strong strategy, businesses can cut down on financial and operational risks and recover much quicker when attacks happen.
