Basic data backups can be compromised. Think like a cybercriminal.

Are you thinking like a cybercriminal when it comes to protecting your data?

In the event of a worst-case scenario, IT professionals have always relied on a strong data backup policy. Unfortunately, cybercriminals are aware of this and have made it their mission to prevent data restoration from backups as an option. Here are a few ways in which cybercriminals can compromise data backups:

1. Ransomware attacks – Cyber criminals can compromise data backups by targeting backup servers and backup files stored on the victim’s network. If the backup files are not properly secured, the ransomware can also encrypt the backup files, making it difficult or impossible to recover the data without paying the ransom.
2. Social engineering attacks – Cyber criminals may use social engineering tactics, such as phishing emails or phone calls, to trick employees into divulging login credentials or other sensitive information. Once the cybercriminals have obtained this information, they can use it to access the victim’s backup servers and backup files and either steal the data or delete the backups.
3. Exploiting vulnerabilities in backup software – Cyber criminals can exploit vulnerabilities in backup software to gain access to the victim’s backup files. They may use this access to delete or corrupt the backup files or steal the data.
4. Physical theft – Cyber criminals may physically steal backup tapes or hard drives containing backup data. This can occur during a burglary or other physical security breach.

To protect against data backup compromises, it is important to implement strong cybersecurity practices, such as keeping software up to date with the latest security patches, using strong and unique passwords, conducting regular security assessments, and providing security awareness training to employees. It is also recommended to use security solutions that can detect and block malicious activity, encrypt backup data, and store backup data offsite or in the cloud. Additionally, it is important to implement physical security measures to protect backup media, such as locking them in a secure location.

There were 623.3 million ransomware attacks globally in 2021. Ransomware accounted for around 20% of all cyber crimes in 2022. 20% of ransomware costs are attributed to reputation damage. 93% of ransomware is Windows-based executables.

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Next-gen data management is crucial to combat ransomware and strengthen cyber resiliency, providing organizations with the data security and recovery capabilities they need to stay competitive and confidently refuse to pay the ransom. For more information visit our cyber resiliency page.