How To Protect Data Centers Against Ransomware Attacks

Out of all the current cybersecurity threats, ransomware may be the most threatening to data centers. Ransomware in data centers can have major consequences for an organization’s reputation as well as its finances. With that in mind, here is a straightforward guide on how to protect data centers against ransomware attacks.

Understanding ransomware

Ransomware is a type of malicious software, or malware, that prevents users from accessing their data. It is commonly delivered through phishing emails, malicious downloads, or vulnerabilities in outdated software.

Once the ransomware has been installed, the user is alerted to its activity. The attacker then demands a ransom payment in exchange for releasing the data.

Types of ransomware

There are currently two main forms of ransomware. These are locker ransomware and crypto-ransomware.

Locker ransomware: This locks users out of a system or part of a system. It does not, however, encrypt data.

Crypto-ransomware: This encrypts data, rendering it useless to its proper owner. Crypto-ransomware can be applied on top of existing encryption. In these cases, the original encryption stops the attacker from accessing the data but the attacker’s encryption stops the true owner from accessing the data.

Ransomware can be developed by the criminals who use it. There are, however, malicious operators who offer Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS). These operators provide other criminals with ready-made tools with which to launch their own attacks. They may also provide assistance with laundering any money received from victims.

The consequences of ransomware in data centers

The consequences of ransomware in data centers depend entirely on two factors. These are the severity of the attack and the data center’s level of preparedness.

The severity of the attack

Locker ransomware can be very basic. It is therefore most effective in low-value, high-volume attacks against users with limited technical knowledge. Professional IT personnel, by contrast, can often remove it easily.

Crypto-ransomware, on the other hand, is usually much more sophisticated. Not only can it encrypt the files in its immediate vicinity but it may also be able to spread, undetected, through a network. Even professional IT staff may not find it until it has done significant damage. They may also not be able to remove it without the key held by the attacker.

The data center’s level of preparedness

Data center managers should never count on their security measures preventing ransomware from infiltrating their systems. They should ensure that all important data is encrypted to render it useless to data thieves. They should also have a robust backup strategy to ensure that they can easily restore any data encrypted by attackers.

Key measures to protect data centers from ransomware

Here are five key measures that can do a great deal to protect data centers from ransomware.

Employee training and awareness

Human error is often a major vulnerability, as phishing emails and social engineering tactics can lead to ransomware entry.

By conducting regular training on cybersecurity best practices, data centers can help staff recognize common ransomware tactics, such as phishing and suspicious attachments.

Simulated phishing exercises and interactive training sessions keep employees vigilant, empowering them to avoid risky behaviors and report suspicious activity.

Network segmentation

Segmenting the network means dividing it into smaller, isolated subnetworks, limiting ransomware’s ability to spread if it enters the data center.

By separating critical systems and sensitive data from less essential areas, network segmentation reduces the impact of an attack, as ransomware is confined to specific areas.

Additionally, restricting access to certain parts of the network based on roles (least privilege) ensures only authorized personnel can access sensitive data, decreasing potential entry points.

Endpoint protection and intrusion detection systems (IDS/IPS)

Using endpoint protection tools and intrusion detection/prevention systems helps detect and block malicious activities before they reach critical systems. Endpoint protection guards against malware and ransomware at the device level, while IDS/IPS monitor network traffic for suspicious behavior.

Together, these systems enhance security by identifying and isolating potential threats, reducing the risk of ransomware infections spreading across the network.

Multi-factor authentication (MFA)

MFA adds an additional layer of security by requiring users to verify their identity through multiple steps (such as a password and a temporary code sent to a mobile device) before accessing sensitive systems or data.

This helps prevent unauthorized access, even if an attacker obtains a user’s password through phishing or other methods. By limiting access to only verified users, MFA makes it much harder for ransomware to infiltrate data centers through compromised credentials.

Timely patch management

Ensuring all software, applications, and operating systems are regularly updated is vital to minimizing vulnerabilities. Ransomware attacks often exploit known security weaknesses in outdated software, so patching these weaknesses promptly can close potential entry points.

Implementing a patch management system that automatically updates critical systems helps data centers stay protected against known threats and reduces the likelihood of a successful ransomware attack.