Ransomware is a type of virus that encrypts a system or data of a user until a certain amount of cash is paid. In 2018, ransomware was the most significant malware threat, where several companies were attacked. Notably, this year has seen the trend continue as more attackers focus on high-end companies in a bid to demand more ransom from them. For this article, we shall look at ten ways to minimize ransomware attacks on HRMS.
1. Training all the staff on underlying HRMS security
Training is one of the most effective ways to reduce ransomware attacks on the HRMS. The training is aimed at ensuring that the staffs are in a position to avoid any suspicious link or activity that may lead to an attack. There may come a time when a worker may be required to handle the primary system, and without proper training, they may be susceptible to an attack. Therefore, this is done to every member of the staff regardless of their status.
2. Do not click on links on emails from unknown sources
Cybercriminals planning on a malware attack on your data may send emails with various links that they might use to gain access to your computer without your knowledge. The HR staff should ensure that emails from unknown sources are scrutinized before they can be proven to be genuine.
3. Isolate a machine that is attacked by ransomware from the network
Immediately a staff notices the possibility of an attack on a particular computer; the device should be isolated from the network to ensure that the whole network does not get attacked. This helps the damage not be severe and easier to curb as opposed to an entire system.
4. Keeping the operating systems and all the software up to date
By keeping the operating systems and software updated it ensures that you are protected from the risk of malware. You will tend to enjoy the latest security updates on your systems. Besides, you ensure that the cybercriminals have a hard time trying to install malware on your network.
5. Network Segmentation
The network in HRMS should be segmented in such a way that certain data is only accessible by certain people. If the network is not segmented, there is the risk of an attack as the cybercriminal can use anybody’s access to attack the network. Moreover, in case of an attack, the whole system may not be attacked, but only a segment of it meaning it may not be catastrophic.
6. The hiring of trusted outside consultants to carry out vulnerability testing on the HRMS
The carrying out of vulnerability testing should be carried out regularly to ensure that the systems are well protected from a malware attack. However, the testing should be carried out by trusted consultants. If not, they may use the vulnerable area to penetrate the system or give the information to cybercriminals.
7. Backing up data to a secure and off-site location
HRMS should be designed in such a way that they back up data every day. This helps to ensure that they have the data, and in case they are locked out of the network as a result of a malware attack, they are in a position to have the data elsewhere. Notably, many cybercriminals are smart and tend to try to attack both networks, and, therefore, they should be secured in an unknown location.
8. Installation of reliable anti-virus
Antiviruses are essential when it comes to systems protection. The antivirus can detect any suspicious software which is likely to be sent by the cybercriminals to attack the systems. However, for the antivirus to be effective, and they need to be strong. The paid antivirus are preferred as they are stronger and can disarm malware and curb any threat that the network may face.
9. Never inserting familiar storage device in the HRMS computer
Unfamiliar USBs or storage devices should not be inserted in the HRMS computers as they may have been infected with ransomware and hence encrypt the system. For instance, cybercriminals may leave these devices in a public space where they believe that someone is likely to pick them up and try them out in the nearby devices.
10. Have a procedural way to respond to malware attack
Despite taking caution to prevent a ransomware attack, there may come a time when the HRMS systems may be attacked. Therefore, there should be a stipulated procedure on how the staff should respond to the attack to prevent panic. The process should be simple and well known to all the staff. This should include ways on how to communicate the information to the relevant office and action to take on the affected devices.
At JustLogin, we are ISO 27001 certified. This is a widely-recognized security management standard that dictates best practices and comprehensive controls for an information security management system (ISMS). Find out more about how JustLogin safeguards clients’ data here.
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