KnowBe4 has announced the launch of the 2022 Ransomware Hostage Rescue Manual, which includes detailed steps for addressing ransomware infections and simplified checklists.
With ransomware attacks continuing to increase around the world, substantial damage has been caused to organizations of all sizes. Just last week, The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, the FBI and National Security Agency released a joint advisory with international partners in the U.K. and Australia, warning of the growing global threat of ransomware.
According to the 2021 Cyberthreat Defense Report, ransomware was successful in exploiting 68% of surveyed organizations in one year alone. Most of these crimes are financially motivated, with the average ransom paid in Q3 2021 from a ransomware attack costing $139,739 USD.
“Ransomware has evolved significantly over the last few years and today, over 80% of all ransomware attacks involve ‘double extortion,’ data and credential exfiltration,” said Roger Grimes, data-driven defense evangelist, KnowBe4. “Regardless of whether someone has been hit with ransomware or not, protecting the network from these types of attacks is now an integral part of any network security framework for both individuals and organizations. This manual provides real-world examples of ransomware attacks, explanations on how to avoid becoming impacted by a ransomware attack and specific steps to take for those who have been a victim of ransomware.”
The KnowBe4 2022 Ransomware Hostage Rescue Manual covers the following:
- Relevant ransomware stats and stories from attacks in the wild
- What ransomware is and what signs to look for if someone suspects infection
- Specific steps to take once someone confirms they have been impacted
- The various responses to ransomware infection, from payment to doing nothing, and their pros and cons
- How someone can protect themselves and their organization in the future
- Top causes of ransomware exploitation to help prevent becoming a ransomware victim
- A step-by-step checklist for someone dealing with a ransomware incident
