Ransomware in the Workplace: What to Do?

Ransomware attacks are increasing in the UK and no organisation is immune, regardless of size or sector. So how can you reduce the chances of being hit? Tyrex shares some practical steps to help your workplace stay protected.

Ransomware is a type of malware that blocks access to devices or files by encrypting them and demanding payment to restore access. It is one of the main types of malware and remains a major threat to business operations. Infections can happen in several ways, including:

• opening a malicious attachment
• clicking a fraudulent link in an email
• using an infected USB drive

Cybercriminals often take advantage of security gaps to breach systems. Ransomware attacks can be highly disruptive and expensive. In some cases, hackers demand millions of pounds to release locked data or restore access.

Ransomware continues to evolve, but there are several good cybersecurity practices you can adopt to reduce the risk. These include:

1. Keep systems updated
   Ensure that all devices and software are running the latest security patches. Updates close known vulnerabilities that ransomware often targets.
2. Use strong security tools
   Install and maintain effective antivirus software, firewalls, and monitoring tools. These solutions help detect and block threats before they cause harm.
3. Raise employee awareness
   Educate your team on how to spot phishing emails, suspicious links, and unusual attachments. Good cyber hygiene starts with people.
4. Back up your data regularly
   Create secure backups of important files and keep them offline or separated from your main systems. This allows you to recover quickly if files are locked by ransomware.
5. Use USB decontamination stations
   Removable media like USB sticks remain a common infection method. Devices brought in from outside can introduce hidden malware into your network. Installing a USB decontamination station, sometimes called a white station, adds an essential layer of protection.

Good to know: At Tyrex, our USB scanning stations are built to adapt to your environment. They work seamlessly whether your team is office-based or mobile, helping to protect your systems at all times.
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Even with the right defences in place, ransomware can still get through. If your organisation is affected, quick and coordinated action is essential. Follow these steps:

• Disconnect affected systems
  Immediately remove infected devices from your network to contain the spread. Do not power them off unless instructed by your security team, as memory may hold valuable forensic evidence.
• Do not pay the ransom
  Paying a ransom is strongly discouraged by UK authorities. It offers no guarantee of recovery and can fund further criminal activity.
• Report the incident
  Notify the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and report the crime to Action Fraud or Police Scotland (if based in Scotland). This helps national efforts to track and disrupt ransomware groups.
• Preserve evidence
  Keep logs, ransomware notes, encrypted files, and any suspicious emails. This information supports investigations and helps understand how the breach occurred.
• Initiate your incident response plan
  If you have one, activate your internal response procedures. If not, bring in a qualified cybersecurity provider to assist with containment, recovery, and long-term mitigation.
• Assess the damage
  Work with your IT team or external experts to identify how the attack entered your environment, which systems were affected, and whether any data has been exfiltrated.

Managing cybersecurity in-house can be complex and resource-heavy. Outsourcing allows organisations to hand over day-to-day protection of their IT systems and network infrastructure to trusted specialists. This not only streamlines IT operations but also improves the resilience and security of sensitive data. To find out how Tyrex can support your organisation, speak to our team today and take the first step towards stronger, smarter cyber protection.