Ransomware encrypts your files and demands payment to unlock them. Small businesses are hit hardest because attackers assume – usually correctly – that defences are thin and backups are missing.
Your best defence is a backup they cannot touch
If you can restore your data, the ransom loses its power. Follow the 3-2-1 rule: three copies, two different media, one off-site. Tools like Acronis True Image combine full-image backup with built-in anti-ransomware, and cloud backup keeps a copy safely off-site.
The practical checklist
- Backups: automated, tested, with one copy off-site
- Updates: patch Windows, browsers and plugins promptly
- Endpoint protection: real security software on every device – see endpoint protection for teams
- Email vigilance: most ransomware arrives as an attachment or fake link – train your team
- Least privilege: staff accounts should not have admin rights
- A response plan: know who to call and what to unplug
If you are hit
Disconnect affected machines from the network immediately, do not pay before getting advice, and restore from clean backups after the infection is removed. Paying funds the next attack and does not guarantee recovery.
Get ahead of it
We supply and configure backup and security tooling, and our cybersecurity consultancy can assess your setup before an attacker does. Talk to us.
