Technologies To Detect And Prevent Ransomware Attacks

Verizon’s Data Breach Investigations Report puts the cost of 95% of security incidents at $1 million – $2.25 million dollars. The report is based on the analysis of 16,312 security incidents and 5,199 breaches. They found 74% of all breaches to be a result of human error due to social engineering. In terms of cyberattack methods, Ransomware constitutes 24% of all breaches and its popularity has been growing rapidly over the last few years. The report states that a variety of different techniques were used to gain entry to an organization, such as exploiting vulnerabilities (5%), phishing (12%), and using stolen credentials (49%). Following industry best practices and protocols is recommended by the analysts to safeguard organizations against breaches. 

With over a decade of experience in supporting organizations to meet compliance and cybersecurity requirements, our certified experts have identified various technologies to prevent ransomware attacks and enhance your cybersecurity posture. These are in keeping with industry best practices. We have also identified vendors with a successful track record and shared the list in the table below. The price point of implementing these technologies varies depending on your set-up. One way to ensure you are making the right choices for your organization is to undergo a Security Risk Analysis to detect areas of improvement and work with a CISO or vCISO to design a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy.

It’s important to note that while technology plays a significant role in preventing ransomware attacks, a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy should also include regular software updates, strong access controls, robust security policies, incident response plans, penetration testing and ongoing monitoring and assessment of security measures.

Security Tech To Prevent Ransomware Attacks And Enhance Your Cybersecurity Posture

Technologies To Detect And Prevent Ransomware Attacks

1. Endpoint Protection Platforms (EPP):

Most ransomware attacks stem from end devices such as laptops, desktops, and mobile devices linked to the organization’s network. EPP solutions are designed to secure individual endpoints such as laptops, desktops, and mobile devices. They provide antivirus, anti-malware, host-based intrusion detection/prevention systems and behavioral analysis capabilities using artificial intelligence to detect and block ransomware threats. EPPs often include features like real-time scanning, heuristic analysis, and threat detection and prevention. They scan files and processes in real-time, identify known threats, and block or quarantine infected files.

2. Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFW):

NGFWs combine traditional firewall capabilities with advanced security features. They use deep packet data inspection, application awareness, and intrusion prevention systems (IPS) to identify and block malicious traffic that may carry ransomware payloads. They often integrate threat intelligence feeds to stay updated on the latest ransomware signatures and indicators of compromise. NGFWs can also enforce policies for network segmentation and user access control.

3. Intrusion Detection/Prevention Systems (IDS/IPS):

IDS and IPS solutions monitor network traffic for potential security breaches and malicious activities. They can detect and block ransomware-related network communications, such as command-and-control (C2) traffic or attempts to exploit vulnerabilities. IDS provides real-time alerts for suspicious network events, while IPS actively blocks or mitigates potential threats. They can help detect and prevent ransomware attacks from spreading across the network.

4. Threat Intelligence Platforms:

Threat intelligence platforms collect and analyze data from various sources to identify emerging threats, including new variants of ransomware. By leveraging threat intelligence, organizations can proactively update their security measures and stay ahead of evolving ransomware threats.

5. Security Information and Event Management (SIEM):

SIEM tools collect and analyze security event logs from various sources, such as firewalls, network devices, endpoints, and servers. By correlating and analyzing this data, SIEM solutions can detect and alert organizations about potential ransomware attacks. They can identify patterns indicative of ransomware attacks and trigger real-time alerts for immediate action. They provide centralized visibility into security events, facilitate incident response, and enable proactive threat hunting.

6. Application Whitelisting:

Application whitelisting involves allowing only authorized applications to run on systems, blocking any unauthorized or malicious software, including ransomware. This approach prevents the execution of unknown or suspicious programs and restricts the ability of ransomware to infiltrate the network.

7. Network Segmentation:

Network segmentation involves dividing a network into smaller multiple isolated subnetworks, typically based on user roles. By segregating critical assets and limiting lateral movement, implementing firewalls and access controls to restrict unauthorized access, even if one segment gets compromised by ransomware, it won’t easily spread to other parts of the network. This strategy helps contain and mitigate the impact of ransomware attacks.

8. Patch Management Systems:

Regularly updating software and operating systems is crucial for preventing ransomware attacks. Patch management systems automate the process of identifying, deploying and verifying patches security patches. This ensures that systems are up to date and protected against known vulnerabilities. Automating this process reduces the chances of exploitation by ransomware or other malware that target known weaknesses.

9. Vulnerability Management Systems:

Regularly scanning and patching systems and software is essential to prevent ransomware attacks that exploit known vulnerabilities. Vulnerability management systems help identify vulnerabilities, prioritize their remediation, and ensure systems are up to date with the latest patches.

10. Data Backup and Disaster Recovery:

While they do not directly prevent a ransomware attack, having robust backup and disaster recovery solutions are essential for recovering from ransomware attacks. Regularly backing up critical data and ensuring its integrity allows organizations to restore their systems to a clean state in the event of a ransomware attack, without paying the ransom. Offline or off-site backups (isolating backups from the main network), using reliable backup solutions that enable fast recovery are particularly important to prevent ransomware from encrypting backup data, restoring their data quickly and minimizing downtime.

11. User Education and Awareness:

Educating employees about ransomware threats, best security practices, and how to identify and report suspicious emails or websites through regular security awareness programs can significantly reduce the risk of successful attacks. This is a critical investment in protecting your organization from security incidents and ensuring that your security tech is used appropriately.

12. Email Security Gateways:

Ransomware is commonly delivered through phishing emails or malicious attachments. Email security gateways employ advanced filtering techniques, including content analysis, spam detection, and URL reputation checks, to block malicious emails before they reach users’ inboxes.

13. Web Filtering and Content Security Solutions:

Web filtering technologies and content security solutions can filter internet traffic and prevent users from accessing malicious websites or downloading infected files. By leveraging URL filtering, reputation checks, and content analysis, these solutions can block known ransomware distribution channels, prevent accidental downloads and reduce the risk of employees inadvertently falling victim to phishing attacks.

14. Behavior-Based Threat Detection:

Advanced security solutions employ behavior-based analytics to detect ransomware attacks based on abnormal system or user behavior. By analyzing patterns, file access permissions, and file modifications, these solutions can identify ransomware activity that might not be caught by traditional signature-based detection methods.

Security Tech Vendors 

Sr. No.
Security Tech
Vendors
1
Endpoint Protection Platforms (EPP)
Crowdstrike, Sentinel One
2
Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFW)
Palo Alto Networks, Fortinet
3
Intrusion Detection/Prevention Systems (IDS/IPS)
Cisco, Fortinet
4
Threat Intelligence Platforms
Crowdstrike, Palo Alto Networks, Cisco Talos
5
Security Information and Event Management (SIEM)
Securonix, Splunk, MS Azure Sentinel
6
Application Whitelisting
(Included in NGFW)
7
Patch Management Systems
MS SCCM, Managengine, N-Able
8
Vulnerability Management Systems
Qualys, Nessus
9
Data Backup
Arcserve, Veeam, Carbonite
10
User Education and Awareness
KnowB4
11
Email Security Gateways
Proofpoint
12
Web Filtering and Content Security Solutions
Checkpoint, Cisco
13
Behavior-Based Threat Detection
Crowdstrike, Cisco

Disclaimer: We have recommended these vendors based on years of consulting experience. No other parameters have been considered for this list. 

It’s important to note that while these technologies can significantly enhance an organization’s security posture, a holistic approach that includes user education, security policies, and incident response planning is necessary to effectively combat ransomware threats.

 

How databrackets can help you prevent Ransomware

Experts at databrackets have extensive experience working with clients across a variety of industries. We have customized services to help you detect and prevent Ransomware. They include: 

  • Security Tech Consulting: Our certified experts understand your risk exposure and recommend best-in-class tools to mitigate the risks. 
  • Customized Policies and Procedures: Based on our assessment and after understanding your processes and procedures, we leverage our extensive policy templates and customize them for your organization. 
  • Customized Training: We customize our training content based on the roles in your organization and your existing procedures. 
  • Regular Compliance Audits: We conduct regular audits to support your business requirements for periodic regulatory and customer-contract based evaluation.
  • Regular Vulnerability Scans and Pen Testing: We conduct Vulnerability Scans and Third party Pen Testing periodically.
  • Managed Security Services: We offer managed compliance and security services to continuously monitor and update your security team about your security posture.
  • Backups & Disaster recovery: We help you design a plan & implement solutions for Business Continuity.

Our team has supported organizations across a wide variety of industries to align their processes with security frameworks like HIPAA, 21 CFR Part 11, ISO 27001:2022, SOC 2, NIST SP 800-53, NIST Cybersecurity Framework, NIST SP 800-171, GDPR, CMMC etc.

We are constantly expanding our library of assessments and services to serve organizations across industries. Schedule a Consultation if you would like to Connect with an Expert to understand how we can customize our services to meet your specific requirements.

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Related Links:

What are the new controls added to ISO 27001 in 2022?

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Sources of Ransomware Attacks on Healthcare Systems

Can you have a Ransomware attack if you are HIPAA-compliant?

 

Author: Aditi Salhotra, Digital Marketing and Business Development, databrackets.com

Aditi is a Digital Marketing and Business Development Professional at databrackets.com. She graduated with honors in Marketing from Sheridan College, Canada. In addition to her current profile, she contributes to Product Development and Content Creation. She is a strong advocate of Good Cyber Hygiene and white hat SEO techniques. She is proud of the company’s mission to safeguard organizations from cyber threats and ensure their business continuity in adverse situations. 

Technical Expert: Srini Kolathur, Director, databrackets.com

The technical information presented in this blog has been carefully reviewed and verified by our Director, Srini Kolathur. Srini is results-driven security and compliance professional with over 20 years of experience supporting, leading, and managing global IT security, compliance, support, and risk assessment in fortune 100 companies. Some of his key areas of focus are SOC 2, ISO 27001, NIST 800-171, NIST 800-53, NIST Cybersecurity Framework,  HIPAA, Security Risk Assessment, CMMC 2.0 among others. He is a CMMC Registered Practitioner (RP), CISSP, CISA, CISM, MBA. He is active in several community groups including Rotary International and TiE.

Can you have a Ransomware attack if you are HIPAA-compliant?

Image on Ransomware Attack even if you are HIPAA CompliantThe short answer: Yes

 

The in-depth answer: The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) sets the minimum standards for protecting sensitive patient health information (PHI). The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) regulates HIPAA compliance, while the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) enforces it. The OCR regularly publishes recommendations on new issues affecting healthcare and investigates common HIPAA violations on a regular basis. However, a HIPAA-compliant organization can still be a target for a ransomware attack. Despite having advanced cybersecurity measures in place to comply with HIPAA, no organization is fully impervious to all cyber threats.

Ransomware Attacks in a HIPAA-compliant Organization

 

HIPAA regulations mandate that healthcare providers protect the privacy and security of patient’s health information. This involves implementing safeguards such as access controls, audit controls, integrity controls, and transmission security. However, these measures primarily focus on ensuring data privacy and security, and although they can help reduce the risk of ransomware attacks, they do not eliminate it completely.

 

Ransomware is malicious software that encrypts the victim’s data. Hackers demands a ransom to restore access to the data once they are paid. They also have the ability to modify the data and sell it, even if they are paid the ransom amount. This leads to serious complications in the Healthcare Industry since their data is targeted due to its critical importance for its high value. Even with HIPAA-compliant measures in place, organizations can fall victim to ransomware attacks via various methods:

  1. Not implementing addressable safeguards:

    Organizations tend to overlook implementing addressable safeguards outlined in the HIPAA Security Rule. These safeguards focus on Authorization / Supervision, Workforce Clearance Procedures, Termination Procedures, Access Authorization, Security Reminders, Log-in Monitoring, Password Management, Protection from Malicious Software, Testing Contingency Plans, etc. Due to this oversight, their systems have vulnerabilities that can be exploited through a targeted cyber attack.

  2. Phishing attacks:

    One of the most common ways attackers can breach security defenses is through phishing emails. These emails trick employees into clicking on malicious links or attachments that install ransomware on the network.

  3. Insufficient Backup and Recovery Systems:

    HIPAA requires that covered entities have backup and disaster recovery measures in place. However, if these measures are not adequately and continuously maintained, tested, and updated, ransomware can infect not only the primary data systems but also backup systems, making data recovery impossible without paying the ransom.

  4. Incomplete or Inadequate Implementation of HIPAA Standards:

    Compliance doesn’t always mean complete protection. Organizations may meet the letter of the law without effectively securing all possible points of vulnerability. For instance, they might overlook the security of medical devices, partner networks, or other systems that connect to their main network.

  5. Exploiting software vulnerabilities:

    Cybercriminals often exploit known vulnerabilities in software applications that are not patched or updated regularly. Through these vulnerabilities, they gain unauthorized access and deploy ransomware.

  6. Insider threats:

    Employees, vendors, or other insiders with malicious intent or those who are simply careless may inadvertently expose the organization to ransomware attacks deliberately.

  7. Brute force attacks:

    In this method, attackers try numerous combinations to guess passwords and gain access to systems or networks. Once they are in, they install ransomware and infiltrate the entire network.

  8. Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs):

    These are long-term targeted attacks where cybercriminals infiltrate networks to mine data or disrupt services. They can plant ransomware and activate it at the most opportune moment. For example, zero-day exploits take advantage of security vulnerabilities that are unknown to the organization and the public. Such vulnerabilities are thus unpatched, making them a lucrative target for attackers.

  9. Network vulnerabilities:

    Weaknesses in network security, such as unsecured Wi-Fi networks or inadequate firewall protection, can create entry points for ransomware.

  10. Physical breaches:

    Access to physical machines (like a stolen laptop that has not been encrypted) can also lead to a breach. HIPAA requires physical safeguards, but like all security measures, they’re not 100% foolproof.

This list is not exhaustive, and HIPAA compliance can help mitigate these risks through required security measures like regular risk assessments, encryption of electronic protected health information (ePHI), maintaining updated and patched systems, and conducting regular staff training on cybersecurity best practices.

However, the cyber security challenges that organizations face are dynamic. They need a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity that goes beyond just HIPAA compliance. This might involve extensive and customized employee training to recognize phishing attempts, regular audits, and penetration tests to identify and patch vulnerabilities, the use of advanced threat detection and response systems, and robust, isolated backup systems to ensure data can be restored in the event of a ransomware attack. In addition, establishing an incident response plan can help minimize damage if an attack occurs.

Despite all these measures, it’s important to remember that no organization can be completely immune to ransomware attacks. Therefore, continuous improvement of your security posture and preparedness for potential attacks is critical.

In the event of a ransomware attack, HIPAA mandates specific steps and reporting procedures, including notifying affected individuals, the Department of Health and Human Services, and potentially the media depending on the scale of the breach. Therefore, compliance does not guarantee the prevention of attacks, but it does establish a strong foundation for preventing, detecting, and responding to such cyber threats, thereby reducing the possibility of risks in the long run.

 

How databrackets can help you create a secure IT infrastructure

Experts at databrackets have extensive experience working with Healthcare Providers, Cyber Liability Insurance Providers, Managed Service Providers (MSPs), FDA Regulated industries etc. Our services range from Security Risk Analysis, HIPAA compliance, Pen Testing & Vulnerability Scans, Implementation of Cyber Security Technology, Managed Security Services, and Security Risk Analysis for MIPS, among others.

Our team has supported organizations across a wide variety of industries to align their processes with security frameworks like HIPAA, 21 CFR Part 11, ISO 27001, SOC 2, NIST SP 800-53, NIST Cybersecurity Framework, NIST SP 800-171, GDPR, CMMC etc.

We are constantly expanding our library of assessments and services to serve organizations across industries. Schedule a Consultation if you would like to Connect with an Expert to understand how we can customize our services to meet your specific requirements.

Related Links

Sources of Ransomware Attacks on Healthcare Systems

Protect your DICOM from Cyber Attacks

Security Tech Investments for Top 10 trends in 2023

How to Select a Security Vendor

Author: Aditi Salhotra, Digital Marketing and Business Development, databrackets.com

Aditi is a Digital Marketing and Business Development Professional at databrackets.com. She graduated with honors in Marketing from Sheridan College, Canada. In addition to her current profile, she contributes to Product Development and Content Creation. She is a strong advocate of Good Cyber Hygiene and white hat SEO techniques. She is proud of the company’s mission to safeguard organizations from cyber threats and ensure their business continuity in adverse situations. 

Technical Expert: Srini Kolathur, Director, databrackets.com

The technical information presented in this blog has been carefully reviewed and verified by our Director, Srini Kolathur. Srini is results-driven security and compliance professional with over 20 years of experience supporting, leading, and managing global IT security, compliance, support, and risk assessment in fortune 100 companies. Some of his key areas of focus are SOC 2, ISO 27001, NIST 800-171, NIST 800-53, NIST Cybersecurity Framework,  HIPAA, Security Risk Assessment, CMMC 2.0 among others. He is a CMMC Registered Practitioner (RP), CISSP, CISA, CISM, MBA. He is active in several community groups including Rotary International and TiE.

Sources of Ransomware Attacks on Healthcare Systems

Image on how ransomware enters Healthcare SystemsA cohort study published in The Journal of the American Medical Association in December of 2022 revealed that Ransomware attacks targeting Healthcare delivery organizations more than doubled from 2016 to 2021. This exposed the Personal Health Information of nearly 42 million patients. During the study period, it was observed that Ransomware attacks were more likely to target large organizations with multiple facilities.

Healthcare systems are usually targets of Ransomware attacks due to their critical importance and the high value of their data. Therefore, Healthcare providers and their vendors (including business associates and subcontractors) must maintain strong cybersecurity defenses and best practices, use advanced threat detection tools and mitigate the unrelenting risk of Ransomware attacks. While benchmarks under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) are mandatory, hackers have found ways to create loopholes in HIPAA-compliant systems, embed Ransomware, and trick users (usually employees of Healthcare providers and their vendors) into downloading it.

How Ransomware Enters Healthcare Systems

Ransomware, one of the most malicious software, can enter Healthcare systems in several ways. Hackers usually look for a loophole or create one through a single user’s computer and then infiltrate the network and spread it to other devices. Once Ransomware spreads, the data in the core systems are encrypted using unique keys that are known only to the hackers. Unless the hackers get compensated, the data in the core systems is unusable by the healthcare systems. This severely impacts service delivery and patient care.

There are several ways they can use to enter a healthcare provider, business associate, vendor or, subcontractor’s systems. This includes, but is not limited to:

1. Phishing Emails:

One of the most common methods for Ransomware to enter an IT infrastructure is through phishing emails. These are emails disguised as legitimate, often impersonating a trusted sender like HR, professionals working in the Billing / Finance department, Vendors, or trusted senders from other departments. The emails contain malicious links or attachments. Once an employee clicks on the link or downloads the attachment, the Ransomware can infect their computer and spread to other systems in the network.

2. Malvertising and drive-by downloads:

Malvertising involves injecting malicious code into online advertising networks. When a user clicks on an infected ad, the Ransomware is downloaded onto their system. Drive-by downloads are similar but happen on compromised websites or even legitimate ones with a security weakness.

3. Exploiting vulnerabilities in outdated software or hardware:

Attackers often exploit security vulnerabilities in software or hardware that haven’t been patched or updated regularly. These vulnerabilities can be in operating systems, applications, databases, network equipment, and medical devices. When security patches are released to fix these vulnerabilities, organizations need to update their systems promptly to protect them.

4. Social Engineering:

This involves manipulating individuals into performing actions or divulging confidential information that can be used to gain unauthorized access to systems or data. It could be a phone call or an online interaction, convincing someone to install a file with Ransomware. Common examples include Pretexting, Baiting, and Tailgating.

5. Third-party vendor attacks:

In this method, attackers compromise a trusted software vendor’s system and insert their Ransomware into software updates. When the healthcare organization installs the infected update, the Ransomware enters its system.

6. Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) attacks:

RDP is a protocol that allows one computer to connect to another over a network. If an attacker can guess or crack the login credentials for an RDP session, they can install Ransomware on the remote system. This is especially problematic in healthcare settings where RDP is commonly used for telemedicine and remote patient monitoring.

7. Removable Media:

Ransomware can spread through infected USB drives, CDs, or other removable media.

8. Internet of Things (IoT)/Medical Devices:

As healthcare increasingly utilizes connected devices, these devices become targets. Many IoT/medical devices lack robust security, making them an attractive entry point for attackers.

This list is not exhaustive, and there is only one certainty in the field of Ransomware attacks – Hackers continue to find innovative ways to infiltrate healthcare systems. Vendors who directly and indirectly work with Healthcare providers in the US need to be HIPAA compliant. However, following the benchmarks set by HIPAA doesn’t guarantee that your systems will not be vulnerable to a targeted or ransomware attack. We have explored this at length in our blog, ‘Can a HIPAA-compliant Healthcare provider be attacked using Ransomware?’(Easwari-hyperlink to the blog)

Stay tuned for ways to Mitigate the Risk of Ransomware in Healthcare.

How databrackets can help you create a secure IT infrastructure

Experts at databrackets have extensive experience working with Healthcare Providers, Cyber Liability Insurance Providers, Managed Service Providers (MSPs), Business Associates & Subcontractors of Healthcare Providers, and Pharmaceutical and other FDA Regulated industries. Our services range from Security Risk Analysis, Pen Testing & Vulnerability Scans, Implementation of Cyber Security Technology, Managed Security Services, HIPAA compliance, and Security Risk Analysis for MIPS, among others.

Our team has supported organizations across a variety of other industries to align their processes with security frameworks like HIPAA, ISO 27001, SOC 2, NIST SP 800-53, NIST Cybersecurity Framework, NIST SP 800-171, GDPR, CMMC, 21 CFR Part 11, etc.

We constantly expand our library of assessments and services to serve organizations across industries. If you would like to Connect with an Expert to understand how we can customize our services to meet your specific requirements, do not hesitate to Schedule a Consultation.

Related Links

Can a HIPAA compliant Healthcare provider be attacked using Ransomware

Protect your DICOM from Cyber Attacks

Security Tech Investments for Top 10 trends in 2023

How to Select a Security Vendor

Author: Aditi Salhotra, Digital Marketing and Business Development, databrackets.com

Aditi is a Digital Marketing and Business Development Professional at databrackets.com. She graduated with honors in Marketing from Sheridan College, Canada. In addition to her current profile, she contributes to Product Development and Content Creation. She is a strong advocate of Good Cyber Hygiene and white hat SEO techniques. She is proud of the company’s mission to safeguard organizations from cyber threats and ensure their business continuity in adverse situations. 

Technical Expert: Srini Kolathur, Director, databrackets.com

The technical information presented in this blog has been carefully reviewed and verified by our Director, Srini Kolathur. Srini is results-driven security and compliance professional with over 20 years of experience supporting, leading, and managing global IT security, compliance, support, and risk assessment in fortune 100 companies. Some of his key areas of focus are SOC 2, ISO 27001, NIST 800-171, NIST 800-53, NIST Cybersecurity Framework,  HIPAA, Security Risk Assessment, CMMC 2.0 among others. He is a CMMC Registered Practitioner (RP), CISSP, CISA, CISM, MBA. He is active in several community groups including Rotary International and TiE.