5 Steps To Help Respond To A Cyber Attack
With the steady increase in cybercrime incidents, the question is no longer whether a business will fall prey to a cyber attack – it’s when. Consequently, it is critical to have a well-crafted response plan ready when faced with a ransomware attack or other cybercrime.
Outlined below are five measures to take in such circumstances:
Initiate Your Disaster Recovery Plan & Notify Your Insurer
Your cybersecurity strategy should be regularly updated and well-defined, as discussed in our “Preventing a Cyber Attack” blog. This plan should outline your top priorities in such an event, including your cyber insurer details.
Your cyber insurer can potentially engage skilled forensic experts to assess the extent of damage caused by the attack. These experts delve into the attack’s origins, the type of ransomware or attack employed, and recommend actions. Additionally, seeking guidance from professionals regarding breach disclosure to governmental entities, regulators, and stakeholders, including affected personnel and customers, is advisable.
Restore Stolen Data Using Backups
Ideally, your business should have recently backed up its data and systems onto external servers disconnected from the main network. By doing so, attackers cannot erase the backups, enabling your business to recover swiftly. The frequency of backups varies based on the business’s activity level. Generally, higher transaction volume requires more frequent backups – ranging from real-time for some companies to once a day for others.
Evaluate the Decision to Pay Ransom
Typically, yielding to criminals’ ransom demands is discouraged post-attack. However, specific scenarios may compel businesses to consider this option, especially if data is not adequately backed up, leaving ransom payment as the only way to regain access. If payment becomes inevitable, insurers might require evidence of the data being held captive before any financial transfer.
Begin Your Post-Recovery Plan
Once you regain data access, the focus shifts to resuming regular business operations. This process begins with a thorough network assessment to identify vulnerabilities. It’s important to remember that initial cyber attacks may have just been a distraction, masking larger assaults in your system.
Restoring the business’s standing with clients and stakeholders also falls under post-recovery efforts. It’s best to follow professional recommendations when establishing policies and procedures to mitigate future cyber risks. Lastly, ensure clear and timely communication, so all parties understand the best action forward.
Audit and Test the Network
In the aftermath of a cyber attack, experts strongly advise performing routine scans and penetration tests to unearth vulnerabilities and learn how to minimise hacking risks.
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Essential Disclaimer
This general information is not tailored to your individual objectives, financial circumstances, or requirements. While accurate during writing, information may be subject to modifications.