A ransomware attack is one of the most devastating attacks a company can face, especially one that deals with sensitive information. Companies have protocols to deal with ransomware attacks, but their response to an emergency can differ from those outlined in company policy. 

The need for solid cybersecurity is more urgent than ever, and companies need to know how they should respond to such threats to cause minimum damage. The following are mistakes companies make when responding to a ransomware attack: 

Not Acting Quickly Enough to Stop the Ransomware Spreading

The key to minimizing a ransomware attack’s effect is acting as swiftly as possible. Companies should train their employees on how they should respond to a ransomware attack on the company’s computer network.

They should not have to wait for the IT department to take action. Use sources like https://ransomware.org to teach employees about ransomware. Moreover, many companies make the mistake of deliberating for too long whether they should pay the ransom. Most IT and cybersecurity experts will recommend not paying the ransom, but in some cases, it may be the better option to avoid a total collapse.

Also, the ransom may be less than the money you would lose from the lack of computer access. Acting swiftly is the best way to ensure the ransomware does not spread. 

Relying On Antivirus Software

Another grave mistake many companies make when facing ransomware attacks is relying on antivirus software to deal with them. Antivirus software will deal with malware and other attacks on computers and networks.

However, they are ill-equipped to deal with ransomware attacks’ rapidly evolving and sophisticated nature. Companies should recognize that antivirus software only offers them protection up to a certain point.

They should have systems to monitor and detect unusual activity, which will help firms take more comprehensive action against ransomware attacks. 

Not Having An Incident Responder

If you are not an IT company or do not have an IT department, you should have someone or a company that can help you during ransomware attacks.

Though you may have IT personnel who can deal with such attacks, previous attacks show that ransomware attacks are getting worse;  hence you should have a specialist to deal with such issues.

You should contact the responder as soon as you become aware of the ransomware attack. There are many benefits to having an incident responder who can quickly respond to such situations. They can quickly deal with and monitor the problem to ensure minimal impact. 

Thinking Ransomware Attacks Are Purely Technical Problems

Most companies, especially management, know little about IT security and always assume that ransomware attacks are purely technical. People, particularly company staff, are the most vulnerable points in a company’s security system.

The managers and executives should understand the role social engineering can play in such attacks.

It would help them respond more effectively to such attacks. They can also look at the people to find out how the breach happened and how to fix it. Training on phishing attacks and other vulnerabilities would also help reduce the chances of such ransomware attacks. 

Not Performing Updates

Most companies will retain the same systems even after a ransomware attack which is a severe mistake. Companies should ensure that their systems are updated as soon as they successfully deal with a ransomware attack.

Software updates are the more important ones and should happen immediately or as soon as possible. Firmware updates may also be necessary for response to malware attacks. Not performing updates will cost you more money in the long run than it would cost to perform the updates. 

There are many situations that companies tend to be unprepared for, and ransomware attacks are a fine example.

Cybersecurity should always be a priority for companies as ransomware attacks are becoming more debilitating. If business owners and managers can avoid the mistakes above, they can improve the efficiency of their responses to ransomware attacks.