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If You Experience a Ransomware Attack, Take Immediate Action to Isolate Infected Devices by Disconnecting Them from Other Devices and Systems ASAP!
Note: Disconnecting is not the same as shutting down.
If you’re unable to disconnect devices from the network, the best course of action may be to power them down to prevent the further spread of the infection. However, it’s important to note that powering down the affected device could erase any potential evidence stored in volatile memory. Only take this step if there are no other options available.
By collaborating with DriveSavers in the event of a ransomware infection, you can minimize the damage to your data and systems and improve your chances of getting your valuable data back.
Comprehensive Data Recovery for All Ransomware Attacks
Our experts use tools and techniques that are specifically designed for recovering data that has been compromised by a ransomware attack and target unaffected data sources.
Using or modifying decryptors to reverse the damage done by the threat actor, repairing corrupt files post-decryption, recovering older or other versions of the data that remain unaffected, and searching for and recovering from alternative data sources, such as tape and cloud assets, are some of the data recovery solutions we provide for ransomware-affected systems.
No matter the scale or severity of the ransomware attack, our data recovery solutions are optimized to help you recover your data as quickly and efficiently as possible.
It is critical to contact DriveSavers as soon as possible for optimal data recovery success, whether or not you’ve already contacted the attacker. We provide a free consultation to help you understand appropriate courses of action and review alternative, less expensive, and more time-effective solutions. It should be noted that paying the ransom does not ensure that the victim will receive the decryption key or regain access to their files.Mike Cobb — Director of Engineering
Ransomware attackers often target high-value or sensitive data belonging to individuals, businesses, or organizations, as these victims may be more likely to pay the ransom to avoid the loss of data, financial damage, or reputational harm.
Before you contact the attacker, contact DriveSavers to learn more about our ransomware data recovery solutions. Our solutions may get more data back than you would by paying the threat actor.
Introduction to Ransomware
Ransomware has emerged as one of the most serious cyber security threats in recent years, affecting individuals, businesses, and organizations alike.
Understanding Ransomware
To effectively defend against and respond to ransomware attacks, it is critical to understand how they exploit vulnerabilities and what they seek to accomplish.
Following the completion of the encryption process, the ransomware displays a ransom note, which includes instructions for the victim on how to pay the ransom, usually in cryptocurrency, as well as a payment deadline. If the deadline is not met, the attackers may threaten to delete the encrypted files, increase the ransom amount, or leak sensitive information.
- Using various attack vectors to gain access to a computer or network.
- Using advanced encryption algorithms to encrypt files or lock systems.
- In exchange for the decryption key, the attacker demands a ransom from the victim.
- Using deadlines and threats of data deletion or exposure to apply pressure.
- Exfiltrating sensitive information to use as leverage in some cases.
Recognizing a Ransomware Attack
Detecting and recognizing ransomware early in the infection process is crucial to minimize its impact on your data and systems.
Familiarizing yourself with the common signs of a ransomware attack can help you take swift action to mitigate the damage and improve your chances of recovering your files.
- Suddenly inaccessible files: You may notice that your files are suddenly inaccessible, with their icons replaced by unknown file types or blank placeholders. This is frequently caused by ransomware encrypting the files.
- Ransom note: A ransom note is typically displayed on the victim’s screen or within affected folders during a ransomware attack. The note usually includes information about the attack, instructions on how to pay the ransom, and a payment deadline.
- Changed file extensions: File extensions are frequently changed by ransomware, rendering the encrypted files unrecognizable to the operating system. The new extensions could be at random or linked to a specific ransomware strain (e.g., .locky, .wannacry, .crypt).
- Unusual system behavior: You may notice your computer or network running slower than usual, programs crashing, or increased hard drive activity, all of which may indicate that ransomware is encrypting files or spreading across the network in the background.
- Suspicious emails or attachments: Ransomware frequently infects systems via phishing emails that contain malicious attachments or links. Be wary of unexpected emails, particularly those that include unusual file attachments or links to unfamiliar websites.
Ransomware Attack Methods
It is critical to be proactive in protecting your systems from ransomware.
Implementing strong security measures, such as updating software and operating systems, using strong passwords, and regularly backing up data, can help to reduce the risk of ransomware attacks.
Furthermore, educating employees on the dangers of phishing emails and suspicious attachments can aid in the prevention of ransomware infections.
- Phishing emails: Phishing emails are frequently used by attackers to trick recipients into clicking on malicious links or opening infected attachments. These emails may appear to be from trusted sources or contain urgent messages designed to trick the recipient into acting.
- Exploit kits: Exploit kits are tools used by cybercriminals to exploit known vulnerabilities in software or operating systems. Exploit kits can be used by attackers to deliver ransomware to a target system without requiring user interaction.
- Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) attacks: RDP is a popular protocol that allows users to access and manage computer systems remotely. Attackers can gain access to a system and deploy ransomware by exploiting weak RDP credentials or vulnerabilities.
- Malvertising: Malvertising is the practice of inserting malicious code into legitimate online advertising networks. Users can be infected with ransomware simply by visiting a website that displays the malicious advertisement, even if they do not click on it.
Consequences of ransomware attacks
Understanding the various aspects of ransomware attacks and their potential consequences can aid in the development of effective strategies for preventing, detecting, and responding to such threats, thereby minimizing their impact on your data and systems.
- Data loss: Many victims are unable to recover their encrypted data because they do not have backups or because the ransomware has also compromised their backup systems.
- Financial impact: The cost of a ransomware attack can be significant, including the ransom payment (if paid), data recovery expenses, and potential revenue loss due to downtime or reputational damage. Remember, paying the ransom does not ensure that the victim will receive the decryption key or regain access to their files.
- Disruptions in daily operations: Ransomware attacks can cause significant disruptions in daily operations, as organizations may be forced to halt operations while attempting to recover their data or restore their systems.
- Reputation: Ransomware attacks can harm an organization’s reputation, leading to a loss of trust among customers, partners, and the general public.
- Legal and regulatory consequences: Organizations that fail to protect sensitive data or comply with data protection laws and regulations may face legal or regulatory penalties.
Responding to a Ransomware Infection with DriveSavers
When confronted with a ransomware infection, it’s critical to act quickly and take the necessary precautions to limit the damage and increase your chances of recovering your data.
In the event of a ransomware infection, by following these steps and collaborating with DriveSavers, you can minimize the damage to your data and systems, improve your chances of recovery, and reduce the likelihood of future attacks.
Here’s what you should do if you get infected with ransomware, and how DriveSavers can help:
- Disconnect: Disconnect the affected device(s) from the network immediately to prevent the ransomware from spreading to other devices or systems. This includes disconnecting from Wi-Fi and any external devices or cloud storage services that are connected.
- Isolate the affected device(s): Turn off any shared network resources and disable remote access to the infected devices. This can aid in the containment of the ransomware and the mitigation of further damage.
- Preserve evidence: Keep a copy of the ransom note, any suspicious emails or attachments, and any other artifacts related to the attack as evidence. These could aid cybersecurity professionals or law enforcement in their investigation and recovery efforts.
- Consult with DriveSavers: For professional assistance, contact DriveSavers. Our experts can evaluate your options, walk you through the recovery process, and assist you in determining the viability of returning your data.
- Activate your incident response plan: If your company has an incident response plan, use it to ensure a coordinated response to the ransomware attack.
- Notify the following parties: Report the ransomware infection to your IT department, security team, or managed service provider. Depending on your jurisdiction and the nature of the compromised data, you may also be required to report the incident to law enforcement or a regulatory body.
- Determine the extent of the infection: Determine which files, devices, or systems have been affected, as well as the ransomware strain in question. This information can assist you in determining the best course of action for your recovery.
- Consult with DriveSavers: For professional assistance, contact DriveSavers. Our experts can evaluate your options, walk you through the recovery process, and assist you in determining the viability of decrypting your data.
- Communicate with stakeholders: Keep your employees, customers, and partners up to date on the situation, and be open about the steps you’re taking to address it, including working with DriveSavers to recover your data.
Paying the ransom is not your only option. Furthermore, it my not be the best option
- for the following reasons:
- Paying the ransom results in a full recovery of all data in as little as 4% of cases.
- Paying the ransom demonstrates the value of your data to the threat actor, and may encourage double, or even triple extortion.
- Paying a ransom is funding illegal activity, and, in some cases, is illegal in itself and can lead to prosecution.
- Engaging with a professional data recovery company can lead to a fuller, quicker, and less expensive method of reclaiming the data, without funding crime.
- Data recovery solutions for ransomware-affected systems include:
- Using or modifying the hundreds of decryptors we currently have, or developing new decryptors to reverse the damage done by the threat actor.
- Modifying decryptors provided by the threat actor to improve decryption results.
- Repairing corrupt files post-decryption.
- Recovering older or other versions of the data which remain unaffected, including from copy-on-write systems.
- Searching and recovering from alternative data sources, including tape and cloud assets.
- Restore your files from secure, up-to-date backups of your data.
DriveSavers can also check that your backups are malware-free before restoring them to your system.
In the event of a ransomware infection, by following these steps and collaborating with DriveSavers, you can minimize the damage to your data and systems, improve your chances of recovery, and reduce the likelihood of future attacks.
Why Choose DriveSavers for Ransomware Data Recovery?
DriveSavers has been providing data recovery services since 1985 and has a proven track record of success. We use cutting-edge and proprietary data recovery techniques and employ experienced engineers to ensure that your ransomware-encrypted data is recovered quickly and securely. We also have a secure facility with 24-hour security monitoring to ensure that your data is always secure.
Certified Secure Advantage
DriveSavers is your best choice for data recovery. But don’t just take our word for it—always ask to see proof!
Read the full PDF Vetting Doc to see all of the certifications held by DriveSavers, including:
- An annual SSAE 18 SOC 2 Type ll security audit that ensures the highest level of data security available
- ISO Class 5 certification verifying that the cleanroom at DriveSavers is the most advanced in the industry, and the best chance for HDD data recovery
- IT industry training and certifications that ensure DriveSavers Data Recovery Engineers are up-to-date on all the latest technology, encryption, and related knowledge
Certifications and Professional Associations
DriveSavers takes pride in our certifications and professional affiliations. Our dedication to ongoing training and education ensures that our team has the knowledge and skills to handle even the most difficult data recovery cases. Trust DriveSavers as your ransomware data recovery specialist.