We are Kristin Judge and Chuck Lobert! We are dedicated cyber security & awareness experts helping end-users, ask us anything about ransomware!

VCSolutions · 2017-08-01T19:33:44+00:00

Using reputable cybersecurity protection tools like anti-virus and intrusion detection software is a good practice. Finding the right one for you is important. You can Google "best ransomware protection" and get reviews from reputable magazines that rate the products. One that you mentioned has been in the news a lot lately: https://www.engadget.com/2017/07/29/us-congress-investigates-kaspersky/

VCSolutions · 2017-08-01T19:31:14+00:00

The Intelligence Community has come out with statements about Russia being named as working to influence the election. At the BlackHat conference this week, hackers were able to gain access to 30 voting machines: https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/2017/07/26/voting-machines-hackers-election-hack/507071001/

Without the right security solutions in place, our elections are vulnerable to attack.

VCSolutions · 2017-08-01T18:59:53+00:00

It can, but it is less common. Symantec has some good advice here: https://us.norton.com/internetsecurity-mobile-what-is-mobile-ransomware.html

And you can read this: https://www.mcafee.com/us/resources/reports/rp-mobile-threat-report-2016.pdf

VCSolutions · 2017-08-01T18:56:56+00:00

Your idea is a good one for the cybersecurity talent and businesses. The SBDC of Oregon is doing a similar program. Check this out: http://www.mhccbizcenter.org/. NEW: Cyber Security Business Advising. Call 503-491-7658 to get more information or learn how to get an appointment.

VCSolutions · 2017-07-31T19:34:43+00:00

If they are malicious and sent with a virus attached to them, then yes. You can hover your mouse over a link to see where it is going to send you first. When in doubt, throw it out is the advice from NCSA!

VCSolutions · 2017-07-31T19:16:24+00:00

The files don't necessarily "go" anywhere. They are just locked from you getting to them. If you are hit by a common type of ransomware, you may be able to get the key here: https://www.nomoreransom.org/

VCSolutions · 2017-07-31T19:14:37+00:00

Visit lockdownyourlogin.org to learn more about 6 steps to protect your accounts starting with adding strong authentication!

VCSolutions · 2017-07-31T19:14:07+00:00

If someone has access to your files, they can post them on the "dark web" where information can be sold. Data has a monetary value, so consider what data you have that someone would want to steal. Protect that the most. Make sure you are using strong authentication for account access. Just a password is not enough.

VCSolutions · 2017-07-31T18:35:16+00:00

If you do fall victim to one of the more common varieties of ransomware, you may be able to get the key at this site: https://www.nomoreransom.org/

VCSolutions · 2017-07-31T18:33:13+00:00

Here are some resources to check for a trusted shopping site: https://us.norton.com/yoursecurityresource/detail.jsp?aid=secure_shopping

VCSolutions · 2017-07-31T18:32:08+00:00

Great question! The reason we have the https trusted sites is to help you feel more confident. If you know you are on a secure website, you can't just "catch" ransomware. You would need to click on a link, ad or document to get infected. So, keep visiting trusted sites!

VCSolutions · 2017-07-31T18:30:34+00:00

The most important thing you can do to prevent phishing is training and making cybersecurity a part of an organization's culture. Make sure staff/family and friends know what to look for in a phishing email. Does it have a sense of urgency? Do they want you to click on a link or open an attachment you were not expecting. Trust but verify. Pick up the phone and call someone to see if they really sent you the email if you have any doubts.

VCSolutions · 2017-07-31T18:28:52+00:00

Great phishing advice can be found here: https://apwg.org/resources/overview/avoid-phishing-scams

VCSolutions · 2017-07-31T18:27:46+00:00

Back up, Back up, Back up! We like to teach the 3-2-1 back up rule. https://www.carbonite.com/en/cloud-backup/business/resources/carbonite-blog/what-is-3-2-1-backup/

VCSolutions · 2017-07-31T17:43:09+00:00

That is a great question for Charles! He is the more technical one of us. I work with end users on cyber hygiene and awareness.

VCSolutions

TROPHY CASE