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How CIS Helps Prevent Ransomware Attacks
Ransomware attacks have become an increasingly prevalent threat in today’s digital landscape. The consequences of such attacks can be devastating, leading to significant financial losses and operational disruptions. To combat these threats, businesses can integrate CIS Controls into their security posture, a set of best practices designed to enhance their cyber security defences. In this article, we will explore how the CIS framework aids in preventing ransomware attacks and how OneClickComply can help businesses automate the implementation of these controls.
Understanding Ransomware
Ransomware is a type of malicious software that encrypts an organisation’s data, rendering it inaccessible until a ransom is paid to the attackers. The attacker will then provide the decryption key, however it is also very common for the attacker to take the ransom and not provide the key. The rise in ransomware incidents has been alarming, with attackers employing various tactics such as phishing emails, exploiting software vulnerabilities, and utilising pre-existing malware to infiltrate systems. Given this threat landscape, it is crucial that businesses adopt comprehensive security measures.
The Role of CIS Controls
The CIS Controls are a prioritised set of actions that businesses can follow to improve their cybersecurity defenses. Among these controls, several are particularly relevant in the fight against ransomware:
1. Data Recovery Practices (Control 11)
One of the most crucial aspects of ransomware prevention is having effective data recovery practices in place. Control 11 emphasises the importance of establishing and maintaining data recovery processes that ensure enterprise assets can be restored to a trusted state after an incident. This includes regular backups and testing recovery procedures to ensure data integrity. By implementing these practices, businesses can significantly reduce the impact of a ransomware attack by quickly restoring operations, without succumbing to ransom demands.
2. Malware Defenses (Control 10)
Control 10 focuses on preventing malicious applications from being installed or executed on business assets. This includes deploying anti-malware solutions, configuring auto-updates for signature files, and using behavior-based detection methods. By actively defending against malware, businesses can reduce the risk of ransomware infiltrating their systems through known vulnerabilities or malicious links.
3. Email and Web Browser Protections (Control 9)
Phishing attacks are a common entry point for ransomware. Control 9 outlines measures to protect email and web browsers from threats. This includes using only supported browsers, implementing anti-malware systems for email servers, and blocking unnecessary files from entering the email gateway. By securing these points, businesses can significantly reduce the likelihood of falling victim to phishing schemes that lead to ransomware infections.
4. Continuous Monitoring and Response
The CIS Controls also emphasises the need for continuous monitoring of systems and networks to detect anomalies that may indicate a ransomware attack in progress. Organisations should implement logging and monitoring solutions that can alert them to suspicious activities, enabling prompt responses to potential threats.
Implementing CIS Controls with OneClickComply
While the CIS Controls provide a comprehensive framework for enhancing cybersecurity, implementing these controls can be challenging for businesses that have little experience with cyber security, or are already dealing with a different standard. OneClickComply offers automation solutions that simplifies the process of complying with CIS controls. Here’s how OneClickComply can help:
- Automated Compliance: OneClickComply automates the implementation and continual monitoring of all technical CIS controls, ensuring that they are maintained and keep the business secure.
- Threat Detection and Response: The platform also continually checks your devices, websites, and other applications for critical vulnerabilities, offering greater insight into potential risks, and a OneClickFix solution.
Conclusion
Ransomware attacks pose a significant risk to businesses worldwide, but by implementing the defences outlined by the CIS controls, businesses can enhance their defences against these threats. With the assistance of tools like OneClickComply, businesses can both streamline their compliance efforts, and significantly bolster their cyber security posture, ultimately reducing the risk of falling victim to, and having to recover from, ransomware attacks.