What is ransomware?

Ransomware is any software that allows an outsider to access and encrypt another’s files, delete the originals, and then threaten to delete the only remaining (encrypted) copy of the files if the ransom isn't paid. In the movies, the user deploying the ransomware is typically portrayed as a hardened criminal.

But truthfully, ransomware is simply a product—usually found on the internet—that anyone can learn to use easily. And with the rise of ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS), the skillset required to deploy an attack has never been lower. In other words, ransomware attacks are common, and they can be debilitating to files on-premises or in the victim’s cloud.

So, what can you do to protect your data?

By implementing robust security measures at the storage level, such as encryption, access controls, and immutable backups, you can create an additional line of defense against ransomware. This approach helps protect data at its source, making it more difficult for attackers to encrypt or corrupt critical information. Secure storage solutions can aid in faster recovery times and minimize data loss in the event of a successful attack, underscoring the importance of a comprehensive security strategy that includes fortifying the storage infrastructure.

Ransomware attacks happen quickly. Before you realize there's a threat, the hackers have stolen information, have encrypted valuable files, and are demanding that a ransom be paid to release those files back to you. Usually, the hacker demands a certain amount in a cryptocurrency, but paying the ransom doesn’t always minimize the damage. It can take weeks after a ransomware attack to fully assess the damage done in the four phases of a ransomware attack.

Taking an offensive approach (rather than a defensive recovery strategy) to cyberthreats like ransomware is crucial. By building in protections aimed at every stage of an attack, you can reduce damage, limit disruption to business operations, and safeguard your most valuable assets.

Stage 1: The stakeout

Cyber-criminals have many attack vectors to gather intel about their target during the reconnaissance phase, identifying weak links in IT systems to find vulnerable points of entry.

How NetApp can help: Data visibility—classify what data you have, where it is stored, and who has access to it. That approach strengthens all points of entry to reduce vulnerabilities.

Stage 2: Weapons development

During this phase, hostile intent translates into malicious software, such as viruses and malware, designed as weapons to target the identified weak systems.

How NetApp can help: Indelible, immutable data copies—create data copies with end-to-end encryption to lock down your data so that threats have are stymied even inside the perimeter.

Stage 3: Deployment

Attackers unleash their payload on their target, either specified networks or devices. Delivery methods range from email attachments to malicious links that can establish a foothold inside IT networks.

How NetApp can help: AI-powered ransomware threat detection—proactively monitor with early alerts and actionable intelligence so you can rapidly respond to threats with built-in NetApp^® Autonomous Ransomware Protection.

Stage 4: Exploitation

Unauthorized access is granted. Entry into vulnerable systems involves taking advantage of software bugs, weak passwords, or unpatched systems. Once the system is compromised, attackers become privileged users and can navigate networks undetected.

How NetApp can help: Zero Trust—use a data-centric approach and keep security controls as close to the data as possible (granular, file-based event notification interface), so that even known users aren’t free to roam inside your environment.

Stage 5: Infiltration

As if given the green light, bad actors install additional malware to control compromised systems to continue executing actions like extracting sensitive data or launching further attacks.

How NetApp can help: Immutable data copies—prevent data exfiltration and encryption withNetApp Snapshot technologyand cyber vaulting, so that data destruction is limited. in the event of an attack.

Stage 6: Control

After creating their own destructive infrastructure, attackers can command a company’s IT network from anywhere by creating a communication channel that allows them to execute demands.

How NetApp can help: Disaster recovery—get nonstop data availability with zero RPO and RTO. If you do face an attack, NetApp active sync can help to achieve continuous business operations.

Stage 7: End game

Ransomware attackers are after one thing—ransom. Whether attackers exfiltrate compromising customer data, intellectual property, or financials, they want to capitalize on stolen information.

This series of events creates a ripple effect that undermines organizations and disrupts business. The fallout is damaged reputation, financial erosion, and potential loss of your competitive edge.

How NetApp can help: Ransomware recovery guarantee—NetApp guarantees that if the worst happens and you suffer an attack, we warrant Snapshot™ data recovery on your primary or secondaryONTAP storage. If you can’t recover the backup Snapshot copies you use to protect your data with help from NetApp, we offer compensation.