Ransomware is being used widely by hackers to make money by holding your data hostage. As this threat evolves, can you be certain that the data you store is protected and are you able to recover it if you are attacked? This blog will cover ways to reduce the impact of ransomware by implementing practical back-up techniques that you can use to better protect your home or business.
When performing back-ups, the 3-2-1 methodology should be incorporated to reduce threats such as ransomware. To incorporate best practices into your back-up plan, store your data across a range of devices:
• On a workstation, allowing for ease of access;
• Offsite, in the cloud;
• On a long term storage device;
With three copies of your data, you can utilise two different forms of media to store important files, reducing the chances of a back-up becoming inaccessible due to equipment failure. One back-up should be stored offsite to mitigate the risk of a disaster destroying the physical premises along with your onsite back-ups.
Ransomware can begin to manifest itself when backup procedures are neglected in business. Many businesses may take backups but fail to make sure that they perform correctly and hold the right data. The importance of testing your backups predominately stem from recoverability in the event of damage or theft – imagine packing for a holiday but leaving without checking what you are taking, how can you be sure that you have everything you need when you arrive?
The same applies for your business data; perform a back-up, test the data to make sure that everything works and sleep well knowing that you are able to successfully retrieve it.