3 common ransomware tactics

Here, we go through 3 common ransomware tactics that hackers use against businesses

Hackers are becoming more sophisticated day by day by developing and deploying the most feared forms of malware. A greater number of attacks have been reported in the first quarter of 2022 than in the entire of 2021. None of the business organizations are immune to ransomware attacks. This article lists some of the common ransomware tactics used by hackers to target business organizations.

Email Phishing

  • The most common tactic used by hackers to spread ransomware is phishing emails. The rise in electronic communication has increased the risk of email phishing. It is a form of social engineering attack that makes use of electronic communication and human interactions to send deceptive email attachments including links and files to steal confidential information. Ransomware is spread in the target network by using various file formats including ZIP files, word documents, PDF, and JavaScript.

When the victim opens a malicious attachment or link, ransomware is automatically launched in the target system. Once the ransomware is initiated, it begins infecting the entire system. Only one careless click can allow attackers to enter an organization’s network. Cybercriminals use email phishing to abstract corporate information as well as to infect computers and infiltrate business networks.

Planning And Launching The Ransomware

This is how hackers plan ransomware attacks through email phishing.

  • To get access to the victim’s system, hackers create files and links that contain malware.
  • Hackers then email these malicious files to their targets.
  • When the victim clicks on the link or opens the attachment, ransomware automatically spreads into the system.
  • As soon as the ransomware encrypts the data and takes hold of the victim’s system, the hackers demand a ransom for handing over the decryption key.

Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)

  • The remote desktop protocol is another well-known mechanism used by cyber criminals to infect the victim’s system. Port 3389 is typically used for running remote desktop protocol. RDP was designed to allow IT, directors to get safe and remote access to the user’s system. RDP enables them to configure or use the system.

Although RDP has several benefits, it creates a vulnerability in the security system that allow intruders to gain unauthorized access to the system.

Removable Devices

  • common ransomware tacticsRemovable devices such as pen drives, external drives, USBs, etc. are used every day to save and transfer data. In addition, removable media is also used by business organizations to transfer data from one system to another. This gives hackers an entryway to try and break into the system using removable devices.

Removable devices are commonly used by ransomware attackers to get into an organization. Hackers infect the target system with ransomware through USB devices. Here is how it’s done:

  • Malicious ransomware code is put into the USB device by hackers.
  • The USB containing malicious code is sent to the target organization.
  • As soon as the USB is plugged into the system, the ransomware is automatically launched into the system.
  • Once the ransomware has successfully taken hold of the target system, hackers have access to the system.

Avoid clicking on attachments and links from unknown email senders. Regular data backups and up-to-date antivirus software can help protect your system from malware attacks.

If you are interested in protecting your business or company from many cyber security threats, you can call Micro Strategies at their toll-free number, 888-467-6588. We are a company that specializes in business, IT, and security solutions. We are located in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New England, and New York. Our team will assess your business and recommend a fantastic plan that best meets your business needs.

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