On Christmas Eve, cybercriminals targeted three hospitals in Germany using Lockbit 3.0 ransomware. Ransomware is a type of malicious software that infects computers and networks. It holds data and other sensitive information “hostage” in exchange for payment. If you refuse to meet their payment demands, the cybercriminals could destroy the files. Or they could make them available to the public, resulting in data theft and leaks of sensitive information.

Ransomware as a Service (RaaS), such as Lockbit 3.0, has become a successful business model for cybercriminals. It is often marketed to scammers who are looking to use ransomware to target specific organizations. Far from being an amateur operation, RaaS groups operate like legitimate businesses. They have professional websites, customer service teams, and even supporting documentation. All are designed with one purpose – to help scammers steal data!

Your organization relies on you to help keep their data safe! Follow these tips to avoid falling victim to a ransomware attack:

• Always be mindful of a sense of urgency in emails. Never click on links or attachments without first verifying their legitimacy.
• Trust your instincts! If something seems suspicious, always check with your organization’s security team before clicking.

Ransomware can strike at any organization, even highly respected ones like hospitals! As a user, it’s important to remain alert and cautious.

Remember: People with knowledge are the best defense against fraud.