Ransomware attacks are becoming increasingly concerning and frequent in Belgium. The number of cyberattacks has risen sharply in 2023, according to the Centre for Cybersecurity Belgium (CCB). Belgium was particularly targeted last year by ransomware: small, medium, and large businesses are exposed, as well as public administrations.
What is Ransomware?
Ransomware is a type of malicious software that encrypts a company’s data and blocks access until a ransom is paid. The attack can affect businesses of all sizes, from SMEs to multinationals. Hackers often exploit security vulnerabilities or careless behaviour to infiltrate systems. Once ransomware is installed, it spreads quickly and takes sensitive data hostage.
There are various types of ransomware, but they generally follow the same pattern: penetration, encryption, and then ransom demand. Often, cybercriminals threaten to publish or destroy the data if the ransom is not paid. This is why it is essential to know the steps to take to counter this threat, especially if your business is targeted by this particularly dangerous type of attack. Indeed, the continuity of your business may be at stake.
Ransomware: Preventive Measures
As the saying goes: prevention is better than cure. Belgian companies can implement preventive measures to increase security and reduce the risk of ransomware attacks.
Employee Training
Employees are often the first line of defence against cyberattacks. A simple human error, such as opening a phishing email, can compromise the entire system. Regular training for your staff on the risks associated with ransomware and good cybersecurity practices is essential. By raising awareness among your teams, you significantly reduce the chances of falling victim to an attack.
Best Security Practices
Adopting good security practices can greatly reduce risks. This includes:
- Ensuring the continuity of your connectivity by opting for redundancy (fibre redundancy is possible via two different routes).
- Implementing strict security policies.
- Installing effective firewalls.
- Minimising administrative privileges, allowing only certain users access to sensitive data.
- We also recommend using a password manager with two-factor authentication.
Keeping Systems and Applications Updated
Security vulnerabilities in software and operating systems are frequently exploited by cybercriminals. It is therefore vital to keep all systems and software up to date. Security patches often fix discovered vulnerabilities, preventing ransomware from exploiting them.
In this field, while Windows is the most commonly used OS in businesses in Belgium, do not overlook the need to update all operating systems (macOS, Linux, iOS, Android) and connected devices (which are often vectors of infection as they are neglected).
Using MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication)
MFA is another essential layer of protection. By requiring double verification (such as a password and a code sent to a mobile phone), you make it more difficult for cybercriminals to access critical accounts. This measure greatly limits the risk of compromising user accounts and sensitive access.
How to Respond to a Ransomware Attack?
If despite all precautions, your business falls victim to a ransomware attack, it is crucial to respond quickly and methodically. Do not panic. This CCB document remains helpful.
Determine the Scope of the Ransomware Attack
As soon as the attack is detected, it is vital to assess the extent of the infection. Quickly identify the affected systems and compromised data. This step is essential to gauge the impact of the attack and prioritise the necessary actions.
Isolate Infected Devices to Prevent Spread
Isolating infected devices is a critical step in limiting the spread of ransomware to other systems. Disconnect affected devices from the network to prevent the attack from spreading. It is recommended to immediately halt all connections to the internet and local servers until the integrity of the systems is confirmed.
Check the Integrity of Backups
One of the most effective weapons against ransomware attacks is the availability of backups. Ensure that your backups are intact and not compromised by the attack. Regular backups allow you to restore your data without giving in to the hackers’ demands.
Responding to the Attack
In the case of ransomware, avoid paying the ransom. This does not guarantee the recovery of your data (often, they take the money and do not release any data) and encourages criminals to continue their activities.
If the attack is severe and backups are not available, call in cybersecurity experts for a full analysis and, if necessary, contact the appropriate authorities. It is also essential to communicate internally to inform your employees of the measures taken and the instructions to follow to prevent further spread.
Ransomware Protection: Solutions
Among the available solutions, Belcenter’s Endpoint Protection Premium stands out for its ability to detect and neutralise threats in real time. This solution offers advanced protection for workstations and servers against a wide range of cyberattacks, including ransomware. This multi-layered protection uses cutting-edge technologies such as automated patch management, machine learning, real-time threat intelligence, and heuristic analysis.
Endpoint Protection Premium continuously analyses suspicious behaviours and blocks threats before they can cause harm. DataGuard includes advanced monitoring of sensitive folders, which are also subjected to additional detection logic, making them significantly more resistant to ransomware. Ransomware detection and other encryption processes gain further precision with integrated complementary detection logic. The Data Access module prevents the destruction, alteration, and encryption of files in protected folders.
Conclusion: Prevent, Protect, and Above All, Do Not Give In
Ransomware poses a significant threat to businesses in Belgium, regardless of size. However, with appropriate preventive measures and protection solutions like Belcenter’s Endpoint Protection Premium, it is possible to minimise the risks. Training employees, adopting good security practices, and ensuring that systems (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS) are up to date are all essential steps to effectively protect your data and infrastructure. Faced with an ever-evolving threat, vigilance and investment in advanced cybersecurity solutions remain your best assets.
