Technology has changed the way the world does business. In addition to security in physical environments, businesses now also have to contend with cyber security as well. With more people relying on telecommunications than ever before, ransomware attacks are on the rise. And, no one is safe. There have been cyber attacks on companies of all sizes and across industries. Not only does it disrupt business and cost millions of dollars, but in situations such as the ransomware attacks targeting hospitals, its showed how easily your information and well-being could be compromised. If your company had a ransomware attack tomorrow, would you be prepared to handle it?
What Is Ransomware?
For those out there who aren’t familiar with the technical term, ransomware is a type of malicious software, or malware, which threatens to expose or block access to sensitive data or computer systems. It usually happens when you download malware which then allows hackers access to your system.
Once the network is compromised, they hold your information ransom. The attackers agree to release a decryption key in exchange for payment by a set deadline. If you fail to pay, they either permanently delete the data, expose it, or increase the ransom demand.
Is Your Contact Center Prepared for a Ransomware Attack?
No one wants to be the victim of a cyber attack. The best way to avoid it is to make sure you are prepared for the worst-case-scenario. So, to protect yourself and your business, you should have a response and business continuity plan if it happens.
Prevention begins with a preparedness plan. Do you know yours?
- Who is responsible for your cyber security?
- Do you have security tools like email protection gateways and Intrusion Detection Systems (IDSs)?
- Are your employees trained to use and monitor these tools?
- Do you have procedures and protocols for handling cyber attacks and security breaches?
- Do you have a containment plan to limit financial impacts to your business?
- What steps will you take to root out the problem and protect your clients/customers in the future?
How Do You Handle Security Breaches?
Ransomware attacks are becoming more commonplace. And, with the rising popularity of cryptos, payments become more difficult to trace. Unfortunately, these virtual villains are rarely caught since most attacks are never reported.
Not only will it continue, but it will likely become even more frequent in the future. This also increases the likelihood that your business will need a plan for incidence response. And, if your network is breached, you must also be able to maintain customer support after the fact. Otherwise, it will further erode your customers’ confidence that you can keep them secure.
The good news is that you don’t have to deal with cyber attacks alone. P3 can help you craft a plan and enact immediate measures to protect your clients and your company.