Ransomware, a malicious form of malware, encrypts files on devices, rendering them and their systems unusable. Malicious actors demand a ransom for decryption, and they have evolved to employ “double extortion” tactics, exfiltrating victim data and threatening to release it. This dual threat severely impacts organizations, hindering their access to essential data and incurring significant economic and reputational costs.
Back in May, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), National Security Agency (NSA), and Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC) published the #StopRansomware Guide an updated version of the 2020 guide incorporating lessons from the past two years, including recommendations for countering common access techniques, securing cloud backups, and enhancing threat detection. This publication was produced through the Joint Ransomware Task Force (JRTF), an interagency body established by Congress in 2022 to ensure unity of effort in combating the threat of ransomware attacks.
The guide comprises two parts: Part 1 provides best practices for preventing ransomware and data extortion, while Part 2 offers a response checklist. These insights are based on operational knowledge from CISA, MS-ISAC, NSA, and FBI, catering to IT professionals and others involved in developing cyber incident response policies.
Organizations are urged to utilize the #StopRansomware Guide to enhance protections and response plans. For more information and resources on preventing and responding to ransomware threats, visit StopRansomware.gov.