You're just [0] away from FREE shipping!
Your cart
How to protect against ransomware attacks
May 15, 2025
Ransomware threats are evolving—are you prepared? Explore how to prevent, detect, and respond to sophisticated cyberattacks that can affect your business.
Ransomware is no longer just a threat—it’s a constant, evolving danger that every business must be prepared to face. As these attacks grow more sophisticated and costly, no organization is immune. Ransomware encrypts your critical data, locking you out until a ransom is paid. The fallout? Operational shutdowns, major financial losses, and long-term reputational damage.
But there’s good news: You can fight back.
This guide outlines how to build a powerful defense against ransomware—starting with understanding the different types of attacks, then layering on prevention, secure backups, and fast recovery strategies.
A ransomware attack is a type of cyberattack where malicious software, or ransomware, infiltrates a system and encrypts the victim’s data, rendering it inaccessible. The attackers then demand a ransom—usually in cryptocurrency—in exchange for the decryption key.
Ransomware attacks often begin through phishing emails, malicious links, or exploiting vulnerabilities in outdated software. Once inside, ransomware can spread quickly across networks, locking files, servers, and entire systems.
Victims of ransomware attacks face a tough choice: pay the ransom (with no guarantee of data recovery) or suffer costly downtime and data loss.
Ransomware attacks have evolved to target organizations of all sizes, often disrupting operations, damaging reputations, and causing significant financial harm. Modern variants may also exfiltrate data, threatening to leak sensitive information if the ransom isn’t paid. Effective protection requires a layered approach, including strong security, user training, and secure, immutable backups.
Various ransomware variants have emerged, each using different tactics to exploit vulnerabilities. To create an effective defense, you need to know the different forms ransomware can take.
Common types of ransomware include:
Crypto ransomware encrypts vital files on a victim’s system, making them inaccessible. Attackers then demand a ransom in return for the decryption key. It’s one of the most damaging types, frequently targeting mission-critical assets. Top examples include: WannaCry, Locky, and CryptoLocker.
Locker ransomware disables access to devices, preventing users from opening files or using applications. Rather than encrypting files, locker ransomware blocks access to the entire device, rendering systems unusable until the ransom is paid.
Scareware is fraudulent software that claims to identify problems on your system and pressures you to pay for unnecessary or harmful solutions. While some scareware restricts system access, others bombard the screen with pop-up alerts. Scareware mimics system notifications or fake antivirus tools to coerce users into installing malware or paying for deceptive software.
Also known as leakware, doxware involves stealing sensitive data and threatening to publish it unless a payment is made. These attacks aim to pressure victims by exploiting reputational risk.
Protecting against ransomware requires a multi-layered defense that combines technical safeguards with strong user practices. Here are ways to prevent ransomware from impacting your organization:
Unpatched systems without a cloud or web ransomware solution are prime targets. Apply system updates regularly to close security gaps, particularly for operating systems, applications, and firmware.
Modern antivirus and anti-malware tools are essential for identifying risks and mitigating malware and ransomware before they can compromise your systems. These solutions offer real-time scanning, behavioral detection, and automatic updates to help prevent threats from taking hold.
A well-configured firewall serves as a gatekeeper, preventing unauthorized access to your network. Use it in conjunction with network segmentation and monitoring.
Ransomware frequently spreads via deceptive phishing emails that lure users into clicking on malicious links or attachments. Email filters and advanced threat protection can detect suspicious links and attachments before they reach users.
Backups serve as a crucial last line of defense in the fight against ransomware, ensuring quick recovery without the need to pay a ransom. A dependable backup can restore data even if your systems are compromised. Seagate Lyve® Cloud offers secure, air-gapped backups with features like object versioning and immutability.
Local backups are fast but can be vulnerable to attacks. Cloud backups offer geographic redundancy, encryption, and scalability. With secure offsite access and automated versioning, cloud backups can minimize the risk of total data loss following a ransomware attack.
However, it’s crucial to consider ransomware’s effect on cloud security, particularly if your backup solution lacks immutability and end-to-end encryption. This is why secure cloud platforms like Lyve Cloud combine the benefits of both—compatibility with AWS S3, no egress fees, and integrated ransomware protection.
Follow the 3-2-1 rule: keep three copies of your data on two distinct types of media, with one copy stored offsite. Encrypt all backups, test them regularly, and choose platforms with immutable storage, like Seagate Lyve Cloud.
Understanding how to prevent ransomware on networks begins with layered defenses—firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and secure VPN access all contribute to reducing exposure and stopping attacks before they spread. Segment your network, use VPNs for remote access, and implement intrusion detection systems (IDS) to monitor for suspicious activity.
AI and ransomware prevention are interconnected. Artificial intelligence can analyze behavior patterns, detect anomalies, and halt attacks before they execute. AI-driven tools are useful for:
● Identifying zero-day threats.
● Monitoring user behavior and endpoints.
● Responding to breaches faster with automated playbooks.
As ransomware tactics evolve, AI-powered systems rapidly adapt, making them essential for today’s anti-ransomware strategies.
No system is entirely immune, even with the best practices implemented. That’s why it is crucial to have a clear response plan.
Disconnect any impacted devices promptly to prevent ransomware from spreading across your network.
Inform the relevant agencies, like the FBI or CISA. Reporting assists law enforcement in tracking threat actors and may aid in asset recovery.
Identify the affected systems and determine whether sensitive data was compromised. Collaborate with your IT and security teams to assess risks and containment measures.
Restore from your most recent clean backup. This is where secure, immutable backup solutions like Seagate Lyve Cloud become invaluable for quick and reliable recovery.
Ensure employees, partners, and customers are informed. Open communication builds trust and helps manage reputational impact.
Experts strongly advise against paying ransoms, as doing so does not guarantee data recovery and may encourage future attacks. With robust backup protocols in place, recovery is possible without negotiation.
An effective response is only part of the equation; prevention and preparedness can mitigate the impact of ransomware incidents before they occur.
Regular automated backups are crucial. Store them in a secure, immutable environment like Seagate Lyve Cloud.
Create a specific incident response plan for ransomware. Establish clear responsibilities, response timelines, and internal and external communication methods.
Implement least privilege access, manage patches, and enforce endpoint security policies throughout your infrastructure.
Human error remains a significant vulnerability. Consistent security awareness training is crucial, especially in addressing phishing and identifying suspicious emails.
Ransomware attacks are increasingly sophisticated, frequent, and damaging—crippling businesses, disrupting teams, and putting mission-critical data at risk. As discussed in this guide, the best ransomware protection requires more than reactive tools. It demands a proactive, multi-layered strategy that includes secure backups, real-time detection, AI-powered defenses, and clearly defined response plans.
By investing in the right tools and strategies, your business can stay one step ahead of emerging threats. Solutions like Seagate Lyve Cloud and the BrickStor Security Platform effectively implement that strategy. Lyve Cloud offers top-notch backup and recovery, featuring built-in security measures that include:
● Immutable object storage.
● Zero egress fees.
● End-to-end encryption.
● Multi-factor authentication.
● Seamless integration with your existing infrastructure.
Seagate enables businesses to protect their data without sacrificing performance or scalability. Seagate Lyve Cloud and the BrickStor Security Platform offer enterprise-level security, performance, and flexibility, keeping your data protected under any circumstances. Explore Seagate’s suite of cybersecurity solutions and take the first step to preventing ransomware attacks with Seagate Lyve Cloud.
Looking for secure, cost-effective ransomware protection? Seagate Lyve® Cloud offers immutable backups, end-to-end encryption, and scalable object storage—designed to always keep your critical data safe and accessible. Don’t wait until it’s too late.
