Cybersecuritycue Deals 
Table of Contents
Ransomware is one of the most dangerous cyber threats, targeting businesses, governments, and individuals alike, hence the need to defend against ransomware. Attackers use it to lock down critical systems and demand hefty payments to unlock them.
The good news? You can protect your systems.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through six practical steps to defend against ransomware, using Tenable’s tried-and-tested strategies.
Key Takeaway to
- By following these six steps, you’ll minimize vulnerabilities, strengthen your defenses, and reduce your risk of becoming a ransomware victim.
Step 1: Scan Often, Scan Everything
Ransomware attacks often exploit weaknesses in your software. Many attackers, like the REvil group, target old, well-known vulnerabilities. That’s why it’s critical to scan your systems for potential risks regularly.
- Start with your entire attack surface: Focus on web apps, remote access tools, and operational technology (OT) devices.
- Use different scanning methods: Combine network scanners, agent-based scanning for remote systems, and purpose-built tools for modern web applications.
- Handle OT devices carefully: These systems require specialized scanning methods to avoid disrupting critical operations.
Pro Tip: Tenable’s vulnerability management tools help you stay ahead by identifying and addressing these weak spots.
Step 2: Harden Active Directory (AD)
Active Directory controls logins and access within your organization. Attackers know this, and they exploit AD to spread ransomware quickly.
- Eliminate AD misconfigurations: Fix critical weaknesses that allow attackers to move freely within your network.
- Monitor changes in AD: Continuously check for suspicious modifications to stop attackers from creating backdoors.
By taking these actions, you secure the “keys to your kingdom” and make it harder for ransomware to spread.
Step 3: Prevent Privilege Escalation
Privilege escalation is when attackers gain higher-level access, letting them install ransomware, delete backups, and even steal sensitive data.
- Track unusual activity in AD: Monitor logs and events to spot early signs of a breach.
- Correlate data: Use tools that combine AD changes with system logs to uncover misuse of privileged accounts.
- Strengthen your response: Integrate this data with a SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) system to respond faster.
Keeping privileges in check stops attackers from doing serious damage if they get in.
Step 4: Prioritize Risks Using Real-Time Intelligence
It’s impossible to patch every vulnerability, but the good news is you don’t have to. Focus on the ones most likely to be exploited.
- Use threat intelligence: Understand which vulnerabilities ransomware groups target.
- Adopt a risk-based approach: Tools like Tenable’s Vulnerability Priority Rating (VPR) help you prioritize based on real risks, not just severity scores.
For example, some vulnerabilities may seem less critical but are actively exploited in ransomware attacks. Tenable ensures these get fixed first.
Step 5: Remediate Like It’s Critical
Identifying vulnerabilities is one thing; fixing them is another. Many organizations fail to patch issues quickly, leaving the door open for ransomware.
- Automate workflows: Integrate your vulnerability management tools with IT systems to speed up patching.
- Collaborate across teams: Share clear reports with IT and development teams so they know what to fix first.
- Rely on guided remediation: Tools that provide step-by-step instructions make it easier to address complex vulnerabilities.
This step requires teamwork and persistence, but it’s essential for strong defenses.
Step 6: Measure and Improve
You can’t improve what you don’t measure. Regularly track your progress to ensure your defenses stay strong.
- Key metrics to monitor:
- How often you scan assets
- The number of vulnerabilities found and fixed
- The time it takes to address critical issues
- Benchmark your performance: Compare your results with industry standards to see how well you’re doing.
By keeping an eye on these metrics, you’ll continually refine your strategy and stay ahead of threats.
Rounding Up to 6 Steps to Defend Against Ransomware
Ransomware attacks are a growing concern, but they’re not unbeatable. By scanning regularly, hardening your Active Directory, monitoring privilege escalation, prioritizing risks, remediating vulnerabilities, and measuring progress, you can build a solid defense.
If you’re ready to take the next step, Tenable offers powerful tools to protect your systems from ransomware and other cyber threats.
Take Action Today
Don’t wait for an attack to happen. Visit Tenable’s official website to learn more about how their solutions can keep your organization safe. Investing in the right tools now can save you from costly downtime and data loss later.
