Microsoft ProxyShell Attacks & FBI Ransomware Warning: Cybersecurity News for the Week of 08/23/21
Posted by: GuidePoint Security
Published 9/2/2021, 9:30am
Last week started off with a bang as businesses learned of continuing attacks against three significant Microsoft bugs. Also in the news, two regional health centers suffered substantial ransomware attacks, disrupting activities including surgeries. And last week, the FBI has issued a stern warning to businesses that a ransomware group known as OnePercent has been actively targeting organizations since late 2020.
- Microsoft ProxyShell bugs: Patch immediately!
- Surgeries canceled, data compromised in two health center ransomware attacks
- US businesses under attack from OnePercent Ransomware Group, says FBI
Final Words
With ransomware on the rise, it is easy for businesses to assume that a ransomware attack is inevitable. While no organization is immune, it is possible to significantly reduce ransomware risk. We’d like to remind businesses that there are steps you can take to minimize the chance of a ransomware attack, including:
- Staying on top of vulnerabilities and patches.
- Maintaining visibility within your organizations, including ongoing monitoring, and knowing your systems and what is on them.
- Engaging in regular system and data backups.
- Disabling macros on end users’ computing systems.
- Closing any remote desktop protocols open to the internet.
- Using multi-factor authentication.
- Applying least privilege and zero trust.
- Providing regular and mandated training to all staff on recognizing phishing and social engineering.
Ransomware attacks and ransomware gangs aren’t going anywhere. The business best protected from ransomware is the business that takes the time to protect itself.
GuidePoint Security