On June 27th, ransomware known as Petya made headlines as it spread throughout Europe; the second significant ransomware incident within a month.

STRANGELY SIMILAR

Initial reports of Petya were remarkably similar to the WannaCry attack that wreaked havoc in May. Rather than targeting individual users, Petya traveled through organizations via networked computers, exploiting the EternalBlue vulnerability present in un-patched versions of Microsoft Operating Systems.  Even more scary, reports indicate Petya succeeded in penetrating & exploiting fully patched & up-to-date operating systems – making it a greater threat than WannaCry, with no known kill-switch and the ability to continue spreading.

WHAT’S RANSOMWARE?

Ransomware is a type of malicious software (malware.)  It normally travels from person-to-person via email attachment, when visiting a compromised website, or when downloading software.  Once infected, essential files on PCs and company servers become encrypted, or frozen.  A ‘ransom note’ displays on-screen, demanding payment to unlock the files using an untraceable method of payment, such as bitcoin. WannaCry and Petya are uniquely dangerous – because they are programmed to take advantage of vulnerabilities within Microsoft Operating Systems & and self-replicate, quickly spreading throughout networked computers.

THE TAKEAWAY?

Standard Anti-Virus protection is no longer enough. Modern threats have evolved and adapted because cyber-criminals are more sophisticated and creative than ever before.

• It’s time for an update.  It’s crucial to run the latest versions of software – including operating systems. Safeguard the desktops and servers in your network with advanced protection, including anti-exploit and anti-ransomware technology.  You’ll receive regular security updates, automatic patching,and peace of mind.

IT’S TIME TO ADVANCE

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