Used in cyberattacks that can paralyze organizations, ransomware is malicious software that encrypts a computer system’s data and demands payment to restore access. To help organizations protect against ransomware attacks and recover from them if they happen, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has published an infographic offering a series of simple tips and tactics.
NIST’s advice includes:
- Use antivirus software at all times — and make sure it’s set up to automatically scan your emails and removable media (e.g., flash drives) for ransomware and other malware.
- Keep all computers fully patched with security updates.
- Use security products or services that block access to known ransomware sites on the internet.
- Configure operating systems or use third-party software to allow only authorized applications to run on computers, thus preventing ransomware from working.
- Restrict or prohibit use of personally owned devices on your organization’s networks and for telework or remote access unless you’re taking extra steps to assure security.