By Luana Pascu on Mar 24, 2017 |
In 2016, the number of ransomware attacks increased 300 percent from 2015, with over 4,000 attacks detected per day, according to US government statistics. Ransomware is among the worst types of infection, as it not only encrypts network data, but in the end may cost victims all their data – even if they pay the ransom. It should be a priority for all businesses and organizations in 2017. Ransomware is not limited to consumer networks; it’s one of the most sophisticated types of malware that targets all internet users, from private individuals to corporate networks to government agencies. Ransomware attacks on enterprises affect shareholders, employees and customers, and could lead to permanent damage caused by loss of confidential information, negative publicity and financial loss. Blackmailers have claimed another scalp, extorting US $28,000 from a school hit by a ransomware attack.
Los Angeles Community College District (LACDD) agreed to pay the hefty ransom demand to criminals who successfully infected the network of Los Angeles Valley College (LAVC) in a ransomware attack on December 30th, 2016. It’s always disappointing, of course, to hear that a ransomware attack has again resulted in a payout for criminals, but it’s understandable how some organisations might have to make a difficult pragmatic decision if it has few other options open to it. Recent predictions about the massive growth of ransomware attacks seem to be materializing, with another major breach. This one, on Dec. 27, led to the compromise of some 1.5 million user records, according to LeakedSource.
E-Sports Network ESEA, a platform for video game tournaments, did not detect the hack, but was informed by hackers who asked for $100,000 to not leak or sell the data on the black market. The company exchanged emails with the hackers, asked the FBI for help and started informing customers about the hack. |
Protect from RansomwareBuy Bitdefender now RECOMMENDED READINGs
All
|