With the increasing spread of digital transformation and remote work, cybersecurity is becoming even more important. One particularly alarming and growing risk is the threat of ransomware.
Ransomware damage has increased 15-fold in just two years
Ransomware is a powerful malware that can infect PCs and spread to a company network, making all data unreadable. The normal tactic of attackers is to threaten the complete and irreparable destruction of data if a specified ransom is not paid by the deadline.
According to a report by Cybersecurity Ventures, global ransomware damage was around $325 million in 2015. However, by 2017, it had grown 15 times that amount to approximately $5 billion. At this rate, it is predicted to reach $20 billion by 2021. This is one of the highest rates of expansion among all cybercrimes, and various media, industry leaders, security companies, and cyber-attack experts confirm that the above prediction is likely to be correct.
With an attack every 11 seconds, ransomware is becoming a mainstream cyber-attack
Because it is relatively easy to implement and the returns are great, ransomware is quickly developing into a common problem around the world, including Japan.
In 2016, the attack rate was once every 40 seconds, and the number of companies affected by ransomware has only continued to grow. It is estimated that in 2021, the pace will accelerate to the point where every 11 seconds a company will experience a ransomware incident.
Once infected, data recovery is difficult
The trouble with ransomware is that once infected, complete data recovery is often impossible. There is no guarantee that data will be returned even if the ransom is paid.
In fact, it is reported that in most cases, the ransom was paid, but the data was already destroyed and could not be recovered. Moreover, the ransom demanded by the attackers is increasing more and more every year.
Education x Cloud: Two Approaches to Ransomware Protection
Let’s look at some possible losses from a ransomware attack:
・Loss of important business data and customer documents
・Loss of public trust
・Suspension of normal business operations (for several days to several weeks)
For small and medium-sized enterprises and businesses, pre-emptive ransomware protection is very important.
Effective ransomware countermeasures should take a two-pronged approach: the human side and the software side.
The term “human side” refers to the education and training of employees. The vector of ransomware infection is usually email. Regular and ongoing employee education about tips and tricks for identifying malicious emails and the risks of ransomware is simple, yet extremely effective.
On the “software side,” in addition to installing ransomware-compatible security software, it is important to incorporate a solution that can safely back up data in case of an emergency. With cloud backup, all data is stored on a secure cloud server that is separate from the company's network, providing assurance even if a ransomware infection occurs.
The best in ransomware protection from Tsukaeru Cloud Backup + (Plus)!
Tsukaeru Cloud Backup+ is a popular service that is ideal for ransomware protection. Easy to implement, it provides a simple and powerful all-in-one solution.
Tsukaeru Cloud Backup+ features are as follows:
・Centralized security measure and backup management in a single service
・Latest AI-incorporated ransomware countermeasures
・Comprehensive cybersecurity measures with an easy-to-understand management screen
・Secure cloud backup file and data protection
It’s never too late to start playing it safe.
By the time a ransomware infection is identified and panic sets in, it's too late. As remote work continues to be a major issue in 2021, the possibility of more attacks and even more dangerous variations will not disappear anytime soon.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us by phone or email. A free trial service is also available!
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Toll-free number: 0120-961-166 （Office hours: 10:00 – 17:00）
Reference: https://cybersecurityventures.com/global-ransomware-damage-costs-predicted-to-reach-20-billion-usd-by-2021/
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought renewed attention to the importance of business continuity planning (BCP). In this article, we will explain the significance of BCP for small and medium-sized businesses and why cloud solutions are recommended for BCP implementation.
What is BCP? Why is it essential for small and medium-sized companies?
BCP (Business Continuity Plan) refers to plans and measures that are formulated in advance so that business activities can be quickly resumed in the event of a disaster, cyber attack, or other contingency.
With proper BCP measures, business operations can be continued without delay even in the event of unforeseen circumstances such as the following:
・Natural disasters such as massive earthquakes and floods
・Cyber attacks such as ransomware
・Fires in offices and other business locations
・Prolonged pandemics
Without BCP in place, it will be difficult to quickly restore and resume operations in the event of the above problems or disasters due to issues such as the loss of important documents and data necessary, damage to internal servers and computer systems that will take time to repair, or unusable or unsecure office space. This can result in a loss of trust from business partners, customers, and consumers, a risk that a small or medium-sized company or startup cannot accept.
While many people have the perception that BCP is something only for large companies, in fact, it is important for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with concerns regarding their management capabilities to prepare for and respond to emergencies.
In fact, both the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and the recent pandemic conditions have caused a series of bankruptcies among SMEs in Japan, highlighting the importance of emergency preparedness.
Cloud computing: The best BCP choice for SMEs
One common obstacle for SME implementation of BCP measures are budget and time constraints. This is why we recommend a BCP cloud solution.
Implementing a cloud solution as part of your BCP offers the following advantages:
・Data can be quickly recovered from the secure cloud server if computers or systems are damaged.
・Remote work can be easily implemented if the physical office space is damaged or compromised.
In addition, cloud-based BCP measures are inexpensive and affordable, can be implemented immediately, and do not require specialized knowledge or complicated settings, all of which makes them relatively easy to implement with limited time and investment capital.
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government has been offering BCP promotion subsidies for some time. However, the subsidy rate has been increased for the sixth round of applications in January 2021 in order to subsidize the cost of required BCP equipment, including countermeasures against infectious diseases such as COVID-19. These subsidies also include cloud servers and backup systems for data management due to loss of business premises or inability to come to work.
Easy and affordable crisis management with Tsukaeru Cloud Backup+
Tsukaeru Cloud Backup+, a cloud solution from Tsukaeru.net, is a new service recommended for implementing BCP measures for small and medium-sized businesses. The introduction of this service makes it possible to simply and centrally manage security measures and data backup, key elements of effective and efficient BCP. As a cloud service, there is no need for huge initial or capital investments.
Tsukeru Cloud Backup+ features
・Securely backs up applications, systems, and data on any device
・Fast and reliable restore function
・Advanced ransomware and malware protection based on the latest AI
・Intuitive operation with easy-to-understand management screen
・Simple and centralized management of all devices
・Save time and money by remotely managing end-user devices
・Visualize hard disk status in advance and predict problems before they occur
To experience all the Tsukaeru Cloud Backup+ can offer, please feel free to contact us for a free trial.
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In the wake of the COVID-19 global pandemic, online and digital are becoming increasingly important to business. While these trends have many advantages in terms of new ways of working and other aspects, it is also true that cyber attacks (i.e., ransomware and malware) are rapidly increasing to exploit the gaps.
Ransomware attacks are on the rise
A type of cyber attack called "ransomware" is particularly risky at the moment. This attack is a virus that encrypts files on an infected PC and makes them unreadable to the owner(s).
Ransomware attackers demand a "ransom" from their victims. If the ransom is paid, they will unencrypt the files and restore them to their original state.
There are currently many different types of ransomware, such as WannaCry, which came on the scene around 2017. This year, a new ransomware called MAZE has become a global epidemic, and the damage is slowly becoming more noticeable in Japan, as well.
Problems with ransomware countermeasures
The difficulty with ransomware countermeasures can be summed up in two points: the modus operandi has become so sophisticated that it is difficult to prevent infection, and once infected, the probability of regaining access to data is low.
Ransomware is currently the most popular method "chosen" by attackers, and the techniques and methods are evolving every day. Although the main route of infection is through links and attachments in spam e-mails, it is often difficult to guard against the attack because the e-mails look completely normal, for example, identical to ones from trusted business partners.
Also, once infected with ransomware, it is very difficult to recover the encrypted files. Even if you pay the "ransom" demanded by the attackers, there is no guarantee that your data will be restored. Unfortunately, there have been many cases where the ransom was paid in full, but the encryption was not lifted. In the end, the victims had no choice but to give up on the lost data and move on.
Tsukaeru Cloud Backup+ Ransomware Protection: a breakthrough service!
Tsukaeru Cloud Backup + (Plus), recently released by Tsukaeru, is a groundbreaking service developed specifically to address the growing risk of ransomware and malware.
▼Cloud backup means you don't have to worry if you get infected
Tsukaeru Cloud Backup+ is a comprehensive solution that integrates a backup function and security measures, regularly backing up all of your PC data to a secure cloud server. In this way, even if your company's local PC is infected with ransomware, all you have to do is restore from the pre-infection files from the cloud.
▼Next-generation AI-based ransomware detection
Tsukaeru Cloud Backup+ includes the latest next-generation ransomware and malware detection, which uses AI technology to detect and block unknown threats to prevent ransomware infections with overwhelmingly high probability and accuracy.
▼All-in-one security measures necessary for today's world
Tsukaeru Cloud Backup+ includes a whole host of security features that are crucial in this day and age, including automatic virus scanning, vulnerability testing, patch management, malware quarantine, and more. There’s no longer any need to juggle multiple tools for backups and security measures.
To learn more about Tsukaeru Cloud Backup+, please feel free to contact us at your convenience.
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With the increase in the number of remote workers, cybersecurity is becoming more and more important. While there are many crucial factors in effective corporate security measures, email security is one of the first areas that should be addressed.
Targeted email attacks are on the rise
Virus and malware infections via email remain the most damaging type of cyber-attack and are continuously evolving. In particular, targeted email attacks are increasing, designed for and aimed at specific individuals and companies.
Targeted email attacks are sophisticated methods to trick employees to click on malware links or attachments sent under the guise of a business partner or customer. Because these emails look just like normal business emails, it is possible that malware can be unknowingly downloaded.
Emotet: a new malware threat
Recently, a new malware similar to targeted email attacks, Emotet, has been on a global rampage since 2019. Like targeted email attacks, the Emotet infection starts when a link or attachment in cleverly crafted spam emails is clicked.
The scary thing about Emotet is that, once activated, it multiplies by attacking the company's network and spreads rapidly.
“Don’t read” and “Don’t open” are no longer enough to maintain email security
One reason behind the spread of Emotet's infection is the speed of its evolution. Every time a file is registered in an antivirus software database, it evolves by changing its file format and other features to become undetectable, creating a dangerous game of cat-and-mouse.
It has also become clear that the techniques for tricking email recipients are becoming more and more sophisticated. These days, many of these emails cannot be identified as spam without a great deal of caution, and the risk of infection cannot be mitigated by vigilance and basic anti-virus software on the recipient's side alone.
Block dangerous emails with Tsukaeru MailBuster!
Tsukaeru MailBuster is the latest solution for dealing with increasingly sophisticated and evolving email attacks. Tsukaeru MailBuster has the following features:
・Completely cloud-based: no need for software installation or updates on individual computers
・Virus blocking rate of 100% and spam blocking rate of 99.98%
・Supports ransomware countermeasures and Office 365
・Unique filtering system, which utilizes learning AI technology, shutting out even unknown threats
・No initial investment required (1,600 yen monthly cost/100 email accounts per domain)
Visit the Tsukaeru website to learn more!
Tsukaeru MailBuster – click for details
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The Covid-19 pandemic has changed how the world works. Due to the rapid adoption of remote work, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of cybersecurity attacks trying to take advantage of these changes. In this article, we discuss the cybersecurity you need to protect your company's data and business in these volatile times.
31% of companies experience a cyber attack “at least once a day”
Numerous studies have shown that cybersecurity threats have increased in the wake of the pandemic. According to a survey of 3,400 companies worldwide conducted by Acronis (*1) this summer, a total of 31% of companies said they had experienced a cyber attack at least once a day in the past three months, and 9% of companies are attacked at least once an hour. The most commonly reported types of attacks include phishing scams, DDoS attacks, and attacks targeting video conferencing.
IT costs continue to increase in response to remote work
Implementing and maintaining remote work has an impact on corporate IT costs. In the same study by Acronis, 92% of companies reported that they had implemented new technology and software to migrate to remote work. In addition, 72% of companies reported that the pandemic had increased their IT costs.
Companies are unprotected from the growing threat of phishing scams
In the age of remote work, cybersecurity is more important than ever. However, it can be difficult for companies to keep up with the latest cyber-attack trends in terms of effective countermeasures. For example, while one of the most common attacks is "phishing," many companies do not have effective URL filtering in place to combat this kind of attack. According to the Acronis survey, only 2% selected URL filtering as an important feature to consider when choosing a cybersecurity solution.
Tsukaeru: a one-stop-shop for all the security measures you need in the age of Covid-19
In the Covid-19 and post-Covid-19 eras, where remote work has become the norm and the risk of cyber attacks remains high, proactive and flexible security measures are necessary to keep up with the ever-changing trends. However, in the past, it was impractical for small and medium-sized businesses to implement the various software solutions and complex operations that must be managed in parallel.
Tsukaeru has recently launched "Tsukaeru Cloud Backup + (Plus)," an integrated, one-stop solution with an excellent combination of cloud backup services and cybersecurity measures required in today's world. Tsukaeru Cloud Backup + provides safety and security in the following five areas:
・Identification: vulnerability assessment, data protection map, etc.
・Protection: protection against malware/ransomware, centralized protection policies management, etc.
・Detection: hard drive health control, dashboard reports, etc.
・Support: quarantine malware, patch management built into backups, etc.
・Recovery: backup and disaster recovery, remote desktop, etc.
Experience the convenience of Tsukaeru Cloud Backup +, a perfect match for simplifying cybersecurity measures and reducing IT costs.
Click here for details on Tsukaeru Cloud Backup +.
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*1：Acronis Cyber Readiness Report 2020 (PDF)
Ransomware is one of the most damaging cyber attacks. If a system is compromised, the virus will encrypt the data, making it inaccessible. In order to regain access, a “ransom” must be paid to the attacker.
In the past, ransomware attacks mostly targeted individuals and companies in general. However, attacks have recently targeted medical institutions in increasing numbers.
Cyber attacks against medical institutions are increasing, but why?
Recently, ransomware attackers have been changing their strategies. After initially focusing on individuals, they shifted their focus to companies because of potentially larger ransom amounts. Of those companies, medical institutions have become a target of choice. The data involved contains vital information for effective healthcare, such as patient medical history, medications, etc. Due to the importance of this data and the urgency of its need, ransoms are more likely to be paid.
To make it worse, attackers are now taking advantage of the stress and confusion in the medical field caused by the Novel Coronavirus. In fact, there have been a number of cases overseas where hospitals struggling with the increased burden of Novel Coronavirus care were infected with ransomware and were forced to pay to regain access to data.
Increasing ransom costs and decreasing chances of total data recovery
Depending on the size of the medical institution, the ransom is often around a few million yen to 20,000,000 yen. There have been cases where more than 100,000,000 yen was required.
Also, there is a possibility that even if the ransom is paid, there is no guarantee that the data can be recovered completely. Based on previous attacks, there is only a 50% chance of complete data recovery.
Necessary protective measures for medical institutions
The first and most important step to combat ransomware is employee awareness of cybersecurity.
The chance of ransomware infection can be reduced by strictly following the following basic rules:
・Do not open suspicious email attachments and links.
・Check and confirm the address of each email.
・Do not use a simple password.
Regular seminars and training for employees is also important.
Be fully prepared with cloud backup
Of course, no matter how many precautions are taken, it is not possible to reduce the risk of ransomware infection to zero.
Therefore, regular backups are strongly recommended. By backing up important data in the cloud, in addition to the usual data storage, it can be quickly and completely restored from the backup, avoiding the need to pay a costly ransom.
Tsukaeru Cloud Backup is a popular cloud backup solution that is completely compatible with medical and other institutions. Peace of mind is provided by high-level security measures such as strict encryption using the latest AES-256 protocol and the built-in ransomware protection function “Active Protection” that utilizes AI technology.
If you are looking for a low-cost, high-security backup solution, please visit the Tsukaeru website to contact us for more information.
Currently, a 30-day free trial period is being offered.
Click here for details on Tsukaeru Cloud Backup
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As more companies introduce Office365 into their central operations, more cyberattackers are coming up with means of accessing this new pool of data. For companies using Office365, long gone are the days where security measures can be brushed aside. They, too, are among the many who must take safety precautions surrounding data and sensitive information. Let’s take a look at the current situation and the countermeasures one can take.
Office365 is a Major Target for Cyberattacks
Usage of Office365 has risen considerably in both Japan and the world in general, and it is considered one of the most successful business services today. Currently, about 80% of companies on the ‘Fortune 500’ list and 70% of ‘Nikkei 225’ companies make use of Office365 products. Some Japanese companies who are avid users include Toyota, Japan Airlines, Yamaha, Softbank, Rakuten, and many others. Office365 sets a high standard for every business environment and to many, these services are absolutely essential.
Unfortunately, as it has risen in popularity, so has it become a bigger target for cyberattackers. Attacks on Office365 accounts have been increasing and diversifying over recent years. Most recently, attacks have started to target administrator accounts that perform software integration and mail system management. These accounts tend to be overlooked in terms of security and when accessed illegally, this violation is harder to notice. Once an administrator account has been hijacked, there is a risk of attackers gaining more advanced access over the entire Office365 system.
Phishing is More Sophisticated Today than Ever
Emails containing phishing ploys to steal Office365 login IDs and passwords are becoming far more sophisticated. For example, targets have been receiving emails that are responses to existing email threads. This means that when the dangerous email appears, it is from the real email addresses of a previous customer or client (these accounts were hacked as well), with the same email subject, and when the email is opened, it will have all prior exchanges quoted at the bottom. In other words, it looks no different from an ordinary email. Unless you pay a lot of attention to the content of the email, it can be difficult to recognize it as a phishing scam.
If you suspect you’ve been sent a phishing email and you try to send an automatic reply to the sender, it is likely you will have this email returned to you.
Taking Security Precautions
Right now, you’re probably wondering, “What measures can I take to prepare for these cyberattacks?” The first thing you need to do is back up all your Office365 data. If you back up all your data, including emails and files, on a daily basis, you will not lose any important data in the event of an emergency.
Office365 Protection is an effective new solution that completely backs up and protects all Office365 data including information on Exchange, OneDrive, and SharePoint. With Office365 Protection, you can finally get peace of mind for a low price of ¥ 580 a month.
Click here for details about Office 365 Protection
Microsoft’s Recommendation
Did you know that Microsoft recommends backing up Office365 data? According to their terms of service, they advise protecting all content and data using third-party applications and services. Follow their expert advice and protect your data with Office365 Protection, an official Microsoft reseller just for you. check whether you're facing 0x80070422 Error or not.
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In recent news, Malwarebytes, a leading cybersecurity company based in California, has reported a shocking new finding. Ransomware attacks against companies have risen by over 500% in just one year. This revelation has shaken the IT industry, and many have been left wondering: what could have possibly triggered such a shocking spike in cyber attacks? Who among us is most likely to be the next target?
For a period that was as fleeting as it was hopeful, it appeared as if ransomware would become an epidemic of the past. After its peak in 2016, ransomware cases gradually began to decline, replaced by less severe attacks from cryptocurrency mining viruses.
The Attackers Shift their Target
While at the surface it seemed like ransomware was defeated once and for all, many changes were occurring behind closed doors. Namely, a shift of target by ransomware attackers.
A report published every year by the US Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) has shown that ransomware cases in the United States have decreased from 2,673 in 2016 to 1,394. And yet, the loss from ransomware has jumped from $2.4 million to over $3.6 million.
While ransomware cases have decreased, the cost of damage has risen significantly. What does this mean? Instead of attacking individuals, ransomware attackers have shifted their focus onto companies that are capable of paying more hefty ransoms.
Corporate Damage Skyrockets
In early 2019, the number of corporate ransomware cases was reported to have increased by a whopping 521%. The report by Malwarebytes indicates that this surge was caused by ‘Troldesh,' a ransomware virus that is thought to be of Russian origin. This year, it has wreaked havoc across the United States.
Is Backing Up Data the Solution?
Many people believe ransomware is no issue, as long as backups are made every day. Is that really so? Yes, and no. Backing up data can be an important safety precaution in the face of ransomware attacks, but it doesn’t always succeed in preventing them. If your data is backed up to an internal server that is always connected to your regular server, then guess what? Ransomware will likely also infect your backup server. Be mindful about your backup location and who or what has potential access to it. For a higher chance of security, we recommend using the cloud for your backups.
If you’re a business owner or involved in IT security, make sure your defenses against ransomware are formidable. Take all safety measures possible, before it’s too late.
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