Ransomware is the kidnapping of files and business online systems. It is a type of malware in which assailants encrypt a business’ most important data. They will provide a decryption key after a ransom is paid. This is the most prominent IT security issue today. Small to mid-sized businesses are the main target of the attacks. This is due to the general lack of resources smaller businesses have to protect themselves. According to the FBI, the ransomware attacks average out to about 4,000 a day.

There are a variety of things these attack vectors threaten, including network traffic, emails, application traffic, and user behavior. These are inserted into ransomware, locking the user’s screen or the user’s files until the ransom is paid. The business is then confronted with large amounts of money to pay in order to secure the business’ everyday online functions.

The payment expected from each hacker varies. Ransom is commonly specified in bitcoins. However, there has been a history of requests for Amazon and Itunes gift cards. Even worse, paying the ransom does not always mean that the attacker will provide the decryption code necessary to gain access to the locked files.

The threat of ransomware can be executed by many means. It can be downloaded onto systems when a malicious website is visited unknowingly. If a system has other malware downloaded, that malware can also drop or download ransomware. The download can also happen from spammed emails. It all comes down to being aware of the domains you enter online.

In order to prevent ransomware from corrupting your business functionality action must be taken. Detect, prevent and recover. Outsourcing these services through an IT partner will ensure that your ransomware and other advanced threats are detected, the infection of your system is prevented, and the recovery is quick. Don’t become a victim of a ransomware attack, be prepared.