A ransomware attack is when a cybercriminal installs malware on a computer that encrypts the user’s data so they cannot access files, databases or applications. Cybercriminals demand that the company or user pay a fee in exchange for access to their servers or devices.
Unfortunately, nonprofit organisations are not exempt from ransomware attacks. Non for profits have access to a lot of donations and donor information, which makes them a bigger target for cybercrimes.
ITConnexion, an IT managed services provider in Melbourne, has years of experience deploying ransomware security solutions for non-profits. Here are our top five tips to keep your organisation safe.
Cloud Backup Solutions
What if you could avoid paying a cybercriminal to decrypt your files? If your company backups its data, then you don’t have to worry about recovering the data from the attacker.
ITConnexion’s Backup as a Service (BaaS) is a safe and reliable cloud-based backup solution, and you can access the data from anywhere. In the event of a ransomware attack, you will still have access to all of your company’s data stored on a remote server.
Anti-Virus Software
Anti-virus software can help protect devices from some of the malware cybercriminals try to install. One of the most advanced anti-virus software programs is Sophos Intercept X, which provides the world’s best endpoint protection for desktops and laptops. This software uses deep learning and AI to identify viruses and malware and secure your system to stop the threat.
Email Spam Filter
Hackers may send your employees emails with spam links. When your employee clicks the link, it installs malware on their device.
Your company can reduce this threat by using an anti-spam filter for its email server. An anti-spam filter, or Malguard, only displays emails from trusted email addresses and discards emails that contain spam signals and phishing content.
Cyber Awareness Training
As is the case with spam emails, one of the most common ways that hackers gain access to company servers is through human error. Nonprofit organisations should have a cybersecurity training program and policy in place to ensure employees understand red flags for ransomware attacks.
ITConnexion received government funding to provide free cybersecurity awareness training to Australian non for profits and SMEs. The program involves access to cybersecurity training modules, white-hat phishing campaign tests and consultation to help your organisation implement a personalised cybersecurity plan. You can learn more about the program here.
Disaster Recovery Plan
Your nonprofit cybersecurity strategy should also involve a disaster recovery plan. A disaster recovery plan is a custom cybersecurity solution based on your organisation’s needs and IT infrastructure.
ITConnexion will help your organisation develop a disaster recovery plan. We pride ourselves on delivering proactive IT services, which means we anticipate potential cyberthreats and implement software, services and processes to prevent them and restore all of your data if a breach occurs. Our attention to detail and personalised IT services are unmatched in the industry.
If you would like to learn more about cybersecurity solutions for nonprofit organisations, call ITConnexion for a consultation on 1300 892 200.
About the author:
One of the co-founding directors here at ITConnexion. Vincent holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Electrical and a Master of Engineering Science in Electrical Engineering, both from University of Melbourne.
