A growing threat for individuals and corporations alike is ransomware. In short, ransomware is a malicious piece of software usually delivered via email that impacts computers (or phones). Once the malware is resident on the device, it encrypts all contents on the device and requires the user to pay a ransom (usually in Bitcoin) for the password to retrieve their data. If the user does not pay, all data (e.g. pictures, documents, etc.) will remain encrypted and thus not accessible even by the machine owner.
To further illustrate this example, Garmin, the navigation company, was recently a victim of a ransomware attack which went on to infect/encrypt core IT infrastructure. Several popular Garmins apps, including Strava, were taken offline and unavailable to customers. This week, Garmin was able to retrieve the decryption key, it's valuable data, and get systems back up and operational. Garmin has not confirmed it paid the ransom, but it has left news outlets and their anonymous sources to speculate that they did in fact pay the ransom to the tune of $10 million.
Steps to Protect Yourself
As a reminder, individuals are just as likely to be victims of ransomware, but there are things you can do to mitigate these risks.The best defense is a multilayered approach:
Back-up all files regularly. A backup is the best protection against ransomware and other kinds of catastrophic loss.
Be careful with email. If a message looks wrong, do not click on any links in it or open its attachments.
Keep your network secured, with a firewall, strong encryption and anti-virus software.
Regularly patch all software, so that it doesn't have exploitable security holes.
If you believe you are a victim of a ransomware attack, do not negotiate the ransom on your own. Please contact Blackcloak, and we will help you navigate this tricky situation.
As always, the BLACKCLOAK Team is here to help. If you have any questions, email us at ask@blackcloak.io.
Thanks!
The BLACKCLOAK Team
BlackCloak Client Statistics
See where you fall within the BlackCloak Family
84%
Exposed Passwords
customers with passwords exposed on the Deep/Dark Web
38%
Compromised
customers with hacked computers, cameras, or phones
100%
Privacy Leaks
customer devices configured to overshare location and private data
We're actively monitoring your devices to ensure you're protected.
"Over the last 90 days, BlackCloak has scanned over 30,000 applications.
In those, we've found threats, dispatched them and informed the impacted client. By the time you find out you have a threat, BlackCloak has already taken action for you. Stay safe!"
If you get a new device, email us so we can protect it.
