Cybercriminals, bad actors, hackers, fraudsters, scammers and the list goes on and on and other names are being added regularly. All of these are more descriptive terms to refer to a group that has been around from the beginning of time: Common thieves.
But the tactics they use are anything but common. They are constantly seeking new methods to take what others have. Just think what these individuals could accomplish if they used their talents and skills for good.
Just about anyone can become a victim, but for those who operate a business, establishing a defensive infrastructure to thwart these attackers is even more important. The information contained on a business network can include access to not only a company’s bank accounts but also to its customers’ information and accounts.
And cybercriminals, if they infiltrate a network, can hold a company “hostage” in search for “ransom,” which is where the term ransomware was derived.
This firm might not be the end game; it could be just the first step.
The key for a business to not become a victim is to go on the offensive, have defensive mechanisms in place.
FTC IT Solutions and its technicians take a great deal of time researching, vetting and selecting the best software to protect its clients. After extensively reviewing the industry’s best offerings, FTC IT Solutions added Threatlocker to its toolbox to prevent cyber attacks and safeguards systems.
The following are nine ways ThreatLocker can protect an organization from ransomware and other threats (ThreatLocker provided information below):
1. Blocks All Untrusted Software
Ransomware is essentially just software and ThreatLocker deploys a default-deny approach to ensure any untrusted or unauthorized software is blocked from running on a company’s network.
2. Stops Untrusted Remote Access Tools
Attackers often exploit legitimate remote access tools like GoToAssist or LogMeIn Rescue to infiltrate systems. ThreatLocker blocks any remote access tool that is not explicitly trusted, which prevents attackers from gaining an initial foothold.
3. Blocks Network Connections From Untrusted Devices
ThreatLocker’s Dynamic Access Control Lists (ACLs) lock down network ports on a company’s servers, allowing connections only from trusted devices. The system automatically opens ports when a customer’s device is online and using an approved IP address.
4. Limits Access to Network Shares by Application
ThreatLocker enables a company to control which applications can access network shares. Untrusted or malicious applications attempting to access shared files will be blocked, protecting sensitive data from unauthorized encryption or theft.
5. Configure Limits on Write Actions
Ransomware typically encrypts files by writing over them. ThreatLocker can be configured to automatically disable write access if it detects an unusual number of write actions, halting the encryption process before it spreads further.
6. Auto Shutdown Ports for Invalid Login Attempts
A high number of invalid login attempts can signal an attack. In response, ThreatLocker can automatically block specific network traffic, such as RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol), by applying network policies that shut down vulnerable ports.
7. Ringfences Applications to Limit File Access
Even legitimate applications like WinRAR, 7zip, or PowerShell can be used by attackers to encrypt files. ThreatLocker Ringfencing limits what these applications can access, ensuring that they cannot be used to manipulate or encrypt a company’s files maliciously.
8. Blocks SMB and File Share Access From Untrusted Devices
Ransomware often spreads by encrypting file shares on unsecured or compromised devices within the network. ThreatLocker automatically blocks access to file shares from untrusted devices, even when they are on the local network.
9. Software Health Report
A key part of staying ahead of ransomware threats is understanding what software is running on a company’s network. The ThreatLocker Software Health Report automatically catalogs all applications, providing insights into potential risks and the software’s country of origin,
By utilizing Threatlocker combined with a specialized cocktail of best practices and cyber applications handpicked by company experts, FTC IT Solutions can protect its clients from online predators seeking their next victims.
Interested in getting FTC IT Solutions to help protect you, your company and your system, please call 800-671-0670 or go to ftc.net/business/services/it-solutions/
