A ransomware preparedness plan is a veritable must-have for every organization since cybersecurity threats should be considered a “when”, not an “if” proposition. Such plans should include adequate backups, which can allow cities to avoid paying a ransom, but also proper training to avoid the phishing emails that frequently deliver the ransomware. These preventative measures are significantly more affordable than the cost of a ransom payment and the ancillary opportunity costs that accompany such an attack.

When sensitive personal information is compromised in a data breach, companies have a responsibility to help their customers regain confidence in their data’s integrity. In addition to providing identity and financial monitoring services to those impacted, understanding if the exposed information is accessible on the Dark Web by hackers is a critical component of a strong breach response.

Every company needs a ransomware response plan that is both technological and philosophical. Many ransomware attacks originate through phishing scams or other malware, a maxim that underscores the importance of robust cybersecurity initiatives. At the same time, developing adequate backup protocols can help companies avoid paying ransoms that neither guarantee a solution nor curtail bad actors from returning in the future.

Phishing attacks are on the rise, delivering malware that can cripple a company’s reputation and financial standing. Fortunately, they are also entirely defensible. With proper training, employees can be transformed into the strongest line of cybersecurity defense, rather than an imminent liability. Given the high cost of a data breach, the relatively minor expense of a training program is an obvious solution for any organization.

We’ve all experienced the frustration that comes with a slow-loading website. While 10 years ago, we would have waited patiently as a site loaded with all the urgency of a sloth, today’s internet surfers won’t hesitate to close the tab. Most expect at least a three-second load time, while some won’t settle for wait times over two.