3500% Increase In Ransomware

A recent experience with one of our customers lead us to think that we should bring the increased threat of ransomware to your attention.

Ransomware typically arrives on a PC via an 'inconspicuous' attachment. Anti-virus and firewalls are only effective against 30% - 50% of current security threats, because the initial code does not of itself cause damage to the PC or server. The ransomware must be activated by contacting its 'command & control' server, which then initiates the destructive activity of it encrypting your files. This is why the threat is called ransomware; the victim is contacted and can only regain access to their files by paying a ransom (often thousands), to get a key to undo the encryption. However, the larger cost is usually the financial losses and disruption caused by systems and data being unavailable. 

Rio IT can provide a solution called Open DNS (part of Cisco), which manages the websites that can be accessed. It's continually being updated with the details of the 'command & control' servers, so even if the ransomware is delivered, it's unable to activate. 

All effective security is based on layers. You wouldn't run a PC without up to date patches, anti-virus or firewall. Open DNS is simply an additional layer to address a new and increasing threat. Our engineers are so impressed with it, they use it on their home PCs too!

Rio can help you implement and configure Open DNS, the cost of which is only £4 per user per month (plus initial setup).

Call 01206 23500 or email Mark Burns at mark.burns@rioit.co.uk for more information.