Ransomware is the biggest cyber-security threat these days. It has even crippled FBI and made hospitals, power-utility systems as its target. Congress is no special when it comes to cyber-security issues. Yes, Ransomware hit the House of Representatives in Washington.
A series of ransomware attacks on the House of Representatives could hinder the administration. The in-House people warned representatives about the ransomware attacks on the house network.
The representatives are warned that attackers are making use of third-party email apps, like YahooMail and Gmail to gain access to their systems. Further, representatives have been told that YahooMail and apps hosted on Google’s appspot.com will be blocked on House networks.
Ransomware locks all the files present in the computer and demands a ransom to unlock those files. know more about ransomware and its variants
However, FBI has warned users to not to pay Ransom since there is no assurance if the attacker will give the key to unlocking files.
The pattern of attack observed recently indicated that attackers are using .js files attached as zip files to an email that appear to come from the legitimate source. It apparently sounds like one of the representative or staff members became the victim of the attack, which took place in late April.
However, a spokesperson for the House Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) refused to confirm the reality whether the attack was successful or not. Even if the representative’s data was hijacked, it is ambiguous whether the ransom was paid or not.
The CAO spokesperson stated that the White House is a legislative body where a successful ransomware attack can lock down draft bills, memos, and employees’ information.
The technology team warned representatives about phishing and cautioned them to be alert while opening email attachments or links.
How can you save yourself from Ransomware?
First of all, do not pay ransom in any case. Secondly, backup your data on a timely basis. Use Right Backup Anywhere to backup your data safely on Cloud. It automatically backs up your data on the specified time and offers easy restoration at the desired location.
Right Backup Anywhere aims at:
- Creating backup of all the data on Cloud
- Quick restoration
- Easy access to files
- In-built scheduler to create backup automatically
Another thing that you MUST do is to use anti-virus software of a reliable company to detect and remove ransomware at its early stages.
Consider that these tools will act as a protecting shield against the attacks. Don’t be in illusion that Ransomware won’t attack your system. It can reach to you as well. Better late than never; Use security tools and Stay Safe!