"The average ransomware attack costs small businesses $200,000 in downtime, recovery, and lost revenue — many never reopen."

Ransomware has become one of the most damaging cyber threats facing small businesses today. In a ransomware attack, criminals encrypt your files and demand payment to restore access. For a business without proper backups or a response plan, the results can be catastrophic.

How ransomware gets in

Ransomware enters your environment through several common vectors:

• Phishing emails with malicious attachments or links (most common ~70% of attacks)
• Exposed RDP ports - Remote Desktop Protocol left open to the internet
• Unpatched vulnerabilities in operating systems or applications
• Compromised vendors with access to your network (supply chain attacks)
• Drive-by downloads from malicious or compromised websites

What happens during an attack

The attack typically unfolds in stages over hours or days:

Stage 1: Initial access
  └── Malicious email opened, or RDP brute-forced
 
Stage 2: Persistence
  └── Attacker installs backdoor, disables antivirus
 
Stage 3: Lateral movement  
  └── Spreads to mapped drives, connected devices, backups
 
Stage 4: Data exfiltration (optional)
  └── Steals data before encryption for double extortion
 
Stage 5: Encryption
  └── All accessible files encrypted simultaneously
 
Stage 6: Ransom note
  └── Demand displayed, clock starts ticking

The 3-2-1 backup strategy

A reliable backup strategy is your best insurance against ransomware. Follow the 3-2-1 rule:

• 3 copies of your data
• 2 different storage types (e.g., local drive + cloud)
• 1 copy stored completely offline or in immutable cloud storage

Critical warning: Backups connected to your network at the time of an attack will also be encrypted. Your offline or immutable copy is your last line of defense.

Prevention checklist

1. Keep all systems and software fully patched
2. Disable RDP unless absolutely required; use a VPN instead
3. Deploy endpoint detection and response (EDR) software
4. Restrict admin privileges - most users shouldn't need them
5. Run phishing awareness training quarterly
6. Test backup restores every 90 days

★ If you're attacked right now: Disconnect affected machines from the network immediately, do not shut them down. Call your IT provider and cyber insurance carrier. Do not pay the ransom without consulting a professional.