Detection — Despite the MSP ’ s best efforts , ransomware can still get through the protection layer . That ’ s why there should be measures in place to identify when ransomware is present rather than assuming an attack will never be successful . The earlier it is detected , the earlier actions can take place to eliminate it .
Response — When ransomware is detected , responding to the attack and eliminating it must be done with the utmost efficiency . MSPs must be prepared to act by taking the following steps :
• Scan networks for confirmation of an unfolding attack .
• Identify the infected computers and isolate them from the rest of the network .
• Secure all backup data or backup systems immediately .
MSPs that are able to optimize ransomware prevention , while also detecting and quickly responding to attacks that are successful , can have a tremendous impact on their clients and the industry as a whole . Ransomware attacks were estimated to cost roughly $ 20 billion in 2021 , and the MSPs that are able to save their clients from suffering those financial damages can help prevent them from succumbing to closures . MSPs ’ efforts in this area will go a long way toward strengthening their reputation as a security service provider and can leverage that to win more business .
Now that we have a better understanding of the threat of ransomware , what MSPs need to do to combat it , and what they can gain from successfully doing so , let ’ s take a look at how MSPs can help prevent , detect , and eliminate ransomware .
FINDING THE RIGHT TOOLS TO COMBAT RANSOMWARE
SMBs entrust MSPs with access to critical systems and data . The payoff is that they feel protected because the MSP will be able to act swiftly and effectively when a threat arises . MSPs need to reward that trust by arming themselves with tools that will facilitate quick and decisive action .
For example , remote monitoring and management ( RMM ) tools provide MSPs with access to their clients ’ endpoints so they can keep them secure , patched , and operational . Datto RMM does this on an incredible scale in a secure , cloud-based environment . With automated patching , MSPs can leverage Datto RMM to proactively fix any vulnerabilities before they are attacked , helping optimize all ransomware prevention efforts . the next step on ransomware defense by including native ransomware detection , which monitors for crypto-ransomware and attempts to kill the virus to help reduce the impact of an attack . Users get alerts at the first detection of cryptoransomware and automatically isolate impacted devices .
The ability to detect ransomware immediately enables the MSP to execute an action plan sooner rather than later . As ransomware infects systems , it can cause extensive damage , which as we have established , may prove too costly for many SMBs to overcome . Ransomware detection is a surefire way to maintain damage control , keep clients operating , and continue revenue streams for MSPs .
Of course , no ransomware response plan is complete without systems in place to protect the most vital company resource — its data . Backing up data regularly can mitigate the risk of downtime when a ransomware attack is successful , but the system must be secure and reliable . Datto SIRIS is designed to protect physical , virtual , and cloud infrastructures and data . With Datto SIRIS , data is well protected and easily accessible so it can be recovered rapidly when needed . SIRIS also detects ransomware within backups , saving time when locating the last clean system restore point .
LEVERAGING SECURITY SERVICES TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS
In Datto ’ s Global State of the MSP Report , MSPs shared what challenges they will be focused on this year . Unsurprisingly , most focused on security on some level , whether that be securing endpoints , protecting data , or understanding just how to be better against the threat of ransomware . They also told us that they are focused on sales and marketing , particularly as it relates to tools that will help them hit their growth goals in coming years . As we have previously mentioned , all SMBs share a growing concern over security , and it is a business opportunity for MSPs . Those who understand the state of the security landscape and are able to quickly adapt as that landscape changes will end up winning in the end . But to be effective in doing that , MSPs must arm themselves with the tools that allow them to be agile so they can continuously meet their clients ’ ever-changing needs .
Security threats will never go away — they can only be kept at bay . With the right partner , MSPs can do this effectively , protect their clients , and discover new levels of success .
Visit Datto . com to learn more .
But , again , the idea is to always be prepared in case ransomware attacks are successful . Datto RMM also takes
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