Semalt: Never Ever Klick The Malware!

Think about having a business with an update software anti-virus protection and anti-malware program to prevent any intrusions. Also, the company may go a step further to implement a robust backup plan in case of a disaster to avoid the loss of information. Everything should go on fine, that is until one of the users clicks on an email attachment from an unknown source. The problem with this is that when a malicious program gains entry into a system, it affects every computer connected to that network. The problem with these types of malware is that they are destructive and can bring the entire infrastructure to a halt.

Max Bell, the Customer Success Manager of Semalt, says that when a hacker gains remote control of one computer in the system, he or she can lock out all other users and illegally collect information about the business, the clients and other sensitive things concerning the business.

Increasing Rates of Ransomware Use

The Federal Bureau of Investigations and law enforcement studies indicated that the year 2015 saw a rise of ransomware with the issue yet to grow in the year 2016 in use and complexity. For example, due to a rising need to tackle changing vulnerabilities, they continue to become sophisticated. Usually, hackers used to include ransomware in attachments they could send through emails. However, email system developers got better at filtering these type of spam. Cyber criminals have now turned to using spear phishing tactics intended to target specific individuals. Many people forget to remain cautious when it comes to suspicious links and attachments in emails. The best anti-virus and anti-malware programs do not guarantee 100% safety from user error. It is up to the people using the system to research on how they can decipher between legitimate emails and those that are not. Users need to treat emails from unknown sources with skepticism.

Think Twice Before Clicking

People involved in a network of computers need to be vigilant when it comes to using email especially those that land in the inbox with attachments that look suspicious. Even great companies stand to lose from the ever evolving malware threats. Hackers continue to develop new ways to infiltrate computers. It may sound banal, but even the little things that one reads can help save the business from a malware headache. Never open or forward suspicious emails even though they insist on it. Thinking twice about an email message remains integral to maintaining a healthy network.

Prevention is Key

When the business owner thinks of prevention is also key to business success. The first thing to do is to ensure that all employees understand what malware, ransomware, viruses are, and their impact on business. Implement prevention controls and minimize administrative access. Always make sure to have a regular backup of all data saved on offsite data centers like PtC-Online Backup Service.

Open a Service Ticket for Erroneous Clicks

No human being is immune and if one happens to open an email attachment or click an embedded URL by mistake, always involve the IT department immediately.