What is ransomware? And why is it dangerous?

In this blog, our Chairman of the Board at Teichmann International (IT Solutions) AG Dr Fabian Teichmann talks about ransomware and the immediate steps you should take if an incident occurs.

Today we are uncovering the dark world of ransomware attacks. Let's explore how these cyber criminals operate and take your data hostage. It starts with a deceptive technique known as phishing:

Imagine receiving an email that looks legitimate, perhaps mimicking a trusted organization, or a colleague. This email contains a ticking time bomb: a link or attachment laced with malware. The moment you click, the trap is sprung. The ransomware silently infiltrates your system, creeping through your digital life. Before you know it, your files are encrypted - transformed into inaccessible puzzles, and then the demand arrives: a ransom note often asking for payment in cryptocurrency, exploiting the anonymity of the digital world. But here's the crucial part:

Together we can shine a light on these practices and protect our digital reality. Stay informed, stay secure and take action against the scourge of ransomware.

But what if the unthinkable happens? What if, despite all precautions, you fall victim to a cyber incident? Let's talk about the immediate steps you should take to mitigate the damage and navigate the crisis effectively:

• First and foremost, don't panic. Time is of the essence but clear thinking is your greatest ally. Immediately disconnect the affected devices from your network to prevent the spread of the attack. This includes Wi-Fi, bluetooth, or any other connections.
• Next, identify the extent of the breach: what data has been compromised; which systems are affected. Gathering this information is crucial for assessing the impact and planning your response.
• Now it's time to seek professional help. Contact cyber security experts who specialize in Incident Response. These professionals have the experience and tools to analyze the breach, contain the threat, and recover your data.
• Report the incident to the relevant authorities. Many countries have cyber crime units, or national cyber security centers that can assist in the investigation and work with you to prevent future attacks.

Remember: falling victim to a cyber attack doesn't mean defeat. With a proactive response, you can overcome the immediate threats and strengthen your defenses for the future.

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