You’ve heard us talk about the importance of having a good backup that is “ransomware-proof,” meaning it cannot be infected if your network is infected. So, the first tip is to make sure you use the 3-2-1 backup rule: keep three (3) copies of your data, storing two (2) copies on different storage media, with at least one (1) of them off-site and separated from your network.

This goes a long way toward taking the sting out of someone locking all your files and demanding a ransom – but that’s still not a reason to be casual about security, even IF you have airtight backups.

First, you would have to be able to “fail over” to your backup systems. This is like putting a spare donut tire on your car in case you get a flat. Next, you have to “fail back,” or restore your network from the backup. Using the flat-tire analogy, this is like replacing the donut with a new tire.

All the above is time-consuming and costly, even if you don’t pay the ransom. Therefore, make sure you have a failover and failback plan in place and have discussed the actions and time line for such an event with your IT company (us!).

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