Breach Alert
Cybersecurity is a never-ending battle. The FBI and the NSA “have revealed that Russian hackers have been using [a] previously undisclosed malware for Linux systems, called Drovorub, as part of their cyber-espionage operations. The malware allows hackers to steal files and take over devices.” (zdnet.com, 2020) Many feel like they are automatically out of harm’s way if they have newer versions of Linux or are supported by a computer other than Windows. Assuming Windows systems are the only target based on their popularity is a blind assumption. The fact is hackers and cybercriminals are simply opportunists. “Drovorub is a reminder that hackers and malware writers are increasingly willing to target any and all systems if they think there is a profit, some other advantage – or simply the opportunity for chaos – to be had. The most dangerous assumption that many organizations make is that they are not going to be a target. That might be because they think they are too insignificant or because they are too well protected.” (zdnet.com, 2020)
So, what happens to those businesses, companies, and organizations that are the unfortunate targets of either malware, ransomware, or some other digital attack and they don’t have the proper security protections in place?
Well, take a look at the University of Utah for example. Just recently, the University of Utah had to pay hackers $457,059 in order to have their systems restored from their backups and have the hackers withhold leaking accessed student data. (zdnet.com, 2020) In a statement released earlier this week, “the university said it actually dodged a major ransomware incident and that the hackers managed to encrypt only 0.02% of the data stored on its servers.” (zdnet.com, 2020) Based on the sum paid, that 0.02% of data was worth a lot to those hackers!
How it Could Affect You
What these attacks show us is that hackers and cybercriminals are relentless. And even when it feels like the world around you has slowed down a little, criminals in that “industry” only speed up! Don’t get so caught up in your current circumstance that you forget to secure your livelihood. IT Security isn’t a one-time buy. If hackers are ever advancing, should your IT solutions be constantly updating as well? That’s why all businesses (small, medium, and large) need complete IT solutions and not just IT security. Call us today so that we can help you with that!
Hodgson Can Help
Don’t be like the University of Utah! Don’t wait until after a severe attack and the payment of a large sum of money to up your security game. Here at Hodgson Consulting & Solutions, we specialize in securing data and information loss prevention for companies with multiple locations and/or a remote workforce. We offer full solutions for your IT needs, not just Band-Aid fixes. Contact us to receive a FREE Cyber Security Risk Assessment and also learn more about our Managed Security Service Plans. Contact our office today at 847-906-5005.
