IT Security

The Top 5 Most Popular Method Ransomware Is Delivered And Deployed

Ransomware is undoubtedly one of the most popular and damaging forms of malware that threatens nearly everyone these days. If ransomware breaches a vulnerable system, files can be encrypted and users locked out, and the attackers will typically demand cryptocurrency payments to offer a decryption key. Presently, the cybersecurity agency estimates that ransomware will cost America $20 billion this year alone. Here are some of the most common ransomware delivery methods today.

How Is Ransomware Delivered?

Cybercriminals are employing more sophisticated technology to hack systems and retrieve data. Also, these criminals are delivering ransomware in creative ways worth knowing to prevent falling victim. Some of these ransomware delivery methods include:

Exploit Kits

Exploit kits are high-end toolkits that exploit security vulnerabilities. An exploit kit is often executed when an unsuspecting victim visits a compromised website. Then, malicious code embedded somewhere on the website, like an advertisement, secretly redirects you to the exploit kit’s landing page. If your system is vulnerable, it will become infected after a drive-by download of a malicious payload is executed. Then, the attackers can access your critical files and hang on to them for ransom.

Malicious Email Attachments

Cyber attackers typically craft emails from a seemingly credible source like Human Resources or IT when they employ this ransomware delivery method. Then, the attackers attach a malicious file like a .JS file, Word Document, or portable executable (PE) file. Unsuspecting victims usually open the attachments, assuming the email originates from a trusted source. However, the ransomware payload is unintentionally downloaded, and the system is infected, granting the attackers access to your files which will be held for ransom.

Malicious Email Links

Malicious email links are URLs embedded in the body of emails, much like malicious email attachments. Similarly, these emails seem to come from someone or an organization you believe is a trusted source. However, these URLs download links to malicious files all over the web, and your system will be infected once you click them.

How To Protect Your Computer From Ransomware

• Install An Excellent Firewall Program
• Download files and software from trusted websites only
• Do not open links, attachments, and suspicious emails from unknown sources.
• Ensure that your PC runs the latest operating system version with all the latest patches for added security.
• Store essential files in the cloud, as cloud storage services usually have built-in ransomware detection and recovery.
• Use a secure, modern web browser like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Microsoft Edge.
• Restart your computer at least once weekly to ensure that the applications and operating systems are updated, helping your system run better.
• Invest in removable drivers for backup.
• Develop a consistent backup routine to ensure that you backup your files regularly.
• Install a dedicated ransomware blocker.

5 Ways Ransomware Is Delivered And Deployed

1. Email Phishing

A reported 97.25% of phishing emails contain some ransomware. Therefore, it is clear that email phishing campaigns are among the favorite ransomware delivered methods cyber attackers use. Email phishing involves using legitimate-looking emails to trick individuals into opening a ZIP file, Word, Excel, or PDF attachment. After opening these attachments, the ransomware encrypts and holds essential files for the cyber attacker. Also, attackers may trick individuals into clicking a malicious link. If successful, the URL redirects the user to a malicious site that triggers the ransomware download.

2. Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)

Cybercriminals can also deploy ransomware through RDP, a communication protocol that grants IT admins access to systems. Hackers use port scanners to scour the web for exposed ports since RDP usually initiates its requests through port 3389. Once systems with exposed ports are identified, attackers can crack the login credentials and log in as admins.

3. Drive-by Downloads

Drive-by downloads are also one of the widespread ransomware delivered methods. With drive-by downloads, cybercriminals can deliver malware by exploiting weaknesses in the backend of legitimate websites. Then, they hide malicious software on this site or redirect site visitors to pages they control. You can prevent drive-by downloads by using ad-blockers and deleting unnecessary browser plugins.

4. Removable Media

Cybercriminals can also inject malware into removable media like memory sticks and flash drives and wait for individuals to connect them to their computers. If your system is connected to an enterprise network, the ransomware can potentially infect an entire organization. Luckily, many advanced antiviruses can detect and remove malware from removable devices.

5. Pirated Software

Some cracked software comes bundled with adware that may conceal ransomware, so you risk infecting your system if you download such software. Additionally, websites that host pirated software can be more vulnerable to drive-by downloads and malvertising. Also, pirated software doesn’t receive official developer updates so that cyber attackers can exploit key security weaknesses.

Why Select Externetworks For Managed Ransomware?

Our managed ransomware service includes protection via a managed antivirus so your business can receive a complete protection solution. Also, we adopt a proactive approach to threat detection and neutralization and can act quickly when an attack occurs to minimize data loss and downtime.

Please get in touch with us today at www.extnoc.com to get started.