Without managed security from a reliable provider of IT services in Atlanta, businesses can fall victim to ransomware. Nowadays, cybercriminals can take hostage of your device or network from afar. They launch their attacks remotely, revoking your access to anything from a few files to whole systems. If you want to gain control, you’ll have to pay a ransom, otherwise, you’ll be locked out for good. If that’s not bad enough, the ransom doubles for every missed deadline you make. It sounds like science fiction, except it’s happening in real life.
Although ransomware’s biggest impact is financial, such attacks cost organizations more than money. During the hostage period, services also go down, resulting in losses in productivity and availability. And for some industries like healthcare, the losses are much more than that. Some cybercriminals, not content with hijacking medical records, go as far as shutting down hospitals to get faster and higher payouts.
But even if organizations pay, the damage is already done when medical records are already compromised by unknown entities. You can’t be sure you’ll get your files and systems back, and even if you do, how can you guarantee that the cybercriminals don’t have copies they can sell anytime? It’s a serious violation of regulations if a breach happens. Is your organization ready for it?
Unfortunately, the healthcare industry is one of the industries slowest to adopt new technology that provides the necessary security against malware. There are several reasons for this, such as the lack of budget, the prevalence of strict laws, and compliance concerns. They’re valid setbacks organizations in healthcare face, but you can work around them.
Striking a Compromise
You can’t fight high-tech attacks with analog processes. To beat them at their own game, you’ll need reliable IT services in Atlanta specializing in managed security. The good thing about outsourcing to third-party providers is that it addresses the budget problem. They offer their services on a subscription basis, so you can choose the contract length you’re willing to commit to. You won’t have to pay for infrastructure or staff because they’ll handle those. Their expertise also lies in security, so their services are dedicated to protecting your organization not only from ransomware, but from other vulnerabilities and attacks as well. In terms regulations, you can choose providers that are HIPAA-compliant to ensure you’re adhering to the law.
Knowing the Signs
Technology can do a lot, but it can only do so much if your staff isn’t aware of the simple ways cyberattacks can start. Ransomware, as dangerous as it is, spreads easily enough through phishing emails in inboxes and spam links on social media sites. All it takes is a click for malicious codes to be downloaded before they start spreading. To combat this risk, invest in educating your staff about where ransomware can originate. You’d be surprised at how many people are still lured by unbelievable deals and clickbait titles on the internet.
Security is a two-way street where you and your service provider work together to protect your organization. For the best results, consider partnering with us at MIS Solutions. We provide different IT services in Atlanta, including managed security and HIPAA-compliant healthcare services. Contact us today to learn more.