As history has shown, ransomware attacks continue to evolve and become more sophisticated in their tactics. This makes it crucial for community banks to understand the growing threat landscape and take proactive steps to protect their data and systems.

This blog explores the mechanisms through which ransomware is delivered, and effective mitigation strategies for community banks.

How is Ransomware Delivered to Community Banks?

From a cybercriminal’s point of view, there are numerous ways to enter into a community bank’s network and encrypt its data for ransom. Cybercriminals are increasingly attempting to steal and hold data hostage to extort money from community banks.

Ransomware is often delivered through phishing emails and malicious websites. Phishing emails typically contain deceptive links or attachments that, when clicked, can install ransomware onto a victim's device. These emails are made to appear sincere and may even impersonate trusted sources, tricking users into taking actions that compromise their security. To successfully breach a network, cybercriminals target the most vulnerable link in the security chain—the people.

On the other hand, malicious websites can also distribute ransomware through drive-by downloads or exploit kits. These websites can quickly infect a user's system by luring unsuspecting visitors to click on malicious links or download files.

According to Adlumin’s most recent Threat Insights 2024 Volume I, the top two tactics/methods used by ransomware gangs include:

  • Double Extortion: In addition to encrypting data, cybercriminals are stealing sensitive information and threatening to release it publicly unless the ransom is paid.
  • Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS): Some ransomware groups now offer their ransomware as a service to other cybercriminals, allowing them to distribute and deploy ransomware attacks without technical expertise. This has led to increased ransomware attacks, as more criminals can launch their own campaigns with minimal effort.

By understanding how ransomware works and the tactics used by cybercriminals, community banks can better protect themselves against these attacks and prevent themselves from becoming victims.

How Community Banks Can Mitigate Ransomware Risks

To effectively mitigate ransomware risks, community banks must educate and train employees to identify and report the signs of a potential attack. By raising awareness about suspicious emails, links, and attachments, employees become the frontline defense against ransomware infiltrations. Encouraging the use of strong, unique passwords and multi-factor authentication further bolsters security measures.

In addition to employee training, implementing a data backup and recovery plan is essential. Regularly backing up data to offline or secure cloud storage ensures that systems can be restored without succumbing to ransom demands.

Maintaining up-to-date patch updates, particularly through Continuous Vulnerability Management, adds another layer of security. Staying vigilant and updating systems regularly makes it more challenging for threat actors to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data.

By combining these strategies, community banks can significantly reduce their vulnerability to ransomware and protect their valuable data.

Finding the Right Solution  

Implementing a multi-layer defense strategy and prioritizing early detection are pivotal steps in safeguarding community banks against the damaging impact of ransomware. To learn more, request a demo.

 

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