Have you ever contemplated what might happen to your business if you lost all your data by ransomware attack? Consider for a moment the disruption it could cause: halted operations, missed deliveries, disappointed customers, and a potentially severe financial impact. This isn’t a hypothetical scenario. Today, we’re diving into the real-world case of a major distributor who learned this lesson the hard way, and discussing how you can avoid the same fate.
A Wake-Up Call
The company, a big player in the distribution sector, woke up one day to an unwelcome surprise. Their server was attacked by ransomware, an insidious form of malware that encrypts files and demands a ransom to unlock them. Business applications were frozen. Essential data accumulated over the last 4-5 years was rendered inaccessible.
Why did this happen? The company, unfortunately, hadn’t installed antivirus software on their server. But more critically, their backup strategy was inadequate. They had two backups, yes, but both were stored on the same server as the original data. When the ransomware struck, it encrypted these backups along with everything else.
What Makes a Good Quality Backup?
So, what could this company have done differently? What can you do to protect your business from a similar disaster?
One word: Backup. But not just any backup, a good quality backup.
A robust backup system is one that follows the 3-2-1 rule:
- At least three total copies of your data
- Two of which are local but on different mediums
- And one copy off-site
This rule ensures that even if one version of your data is compromised (like in a ransomware attack), you still have at least two safe copies, one of which is located off-site, protected from any localised issues like a fire, flood or cyber-attack.
But backups aren’t just about having different copies. It’s also about having recent copies. Incremental backups can capture changes made to your data throughout the day, reducing the risk of losing hours of work in the event of a system failure or attack.
The Risk of Paying Ransom
Now, you might be wondering, “Can’t I just pay the ransom?” You could. But paying off the ransom not only encourages the criminals, it also doesn’t guarantee you’ll get your data back. It’s a costly gamble that can lead to further exploitation.
Your Solution: Dedicated Backup Services
So how can your business avoid this distributor’s predicament? By enlisting the help of a reliable, dedicated backup service provider.
We at Xiphos specialize in providing top-tier backup solutions, tailored to your unique business needs. Our service ensures your data is continuously protected, adhering to the 3-2-1 rule and offering the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re safe from threats like ransomware.
Remember, in today’s digital age, data is the lifeblood of your business. By taking the necessary steps to protect it, you can avoid the costly, time-consuming recovery process and, most importantly, maintain the trust and satisfaction of your customers.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Take action today. Secure your future with Xiphos. Because when it comes to protecting your data, good quality backup isn’t just an option—it’s a necessity.
