Commercial businesses and government organizations alike face a growing digital threat from Ransomware, more so now than at any time in recent memory.
Ransomware is a type of malware that exploits vulnerabilities to encrypt devices, taking control of an organization’s computer systems and holding their data for ransom. These types of attacks have risen 150% in 2020, with the amount paid out by victims in ransoms increasing by over 300%.
Government agencies have been especially concerned with the threat ransomware poses; thousands of local government organizations have been affected by ransomware attacks, and sensitive information makes federal agencies significant targets as well. But non-government entities also form large targets and need to be proactive to protect themselves from this type of attack.
Ransomware Targets Intellectual Property
The Department of Defense (DoD) is especially concerned with the threat of ransomware since the DoD houses valuable intellectual property and controlled unclassified information (CUI). This concern extends to the private sector when private contractors work with the DoD and also must access this information to complete projects.
The Department of Defense needs contractors to be completely protected against potent malware such as ransomware so that the nation’s intellectual property isn’t compromised by bad actors.
Additionally, government contractors have their own intellectual property to protect, providing motivation for strengthening security beyond government mandates.
These are just a few of the reasons why the DoD is tightening security requirements with CMMC.
Protecting Your Network with CMMC
CMMC is designed to protect the Department of Defense and its intellectual property by securing its supply chain, including ensuring that contractors working with the DoD have the proper level of security according to the type of data they need access to.
Full compliance with CMMC involves following strict controls outlined in NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2 and NIST SP 800-172. These standards hold contractors to the task of implementing security measures that include limiting system access, protecting devices, implementing encryptions, monitoring and protecting company communications, and a host of other controls that, together, create a multi-layered, comprehensive security net designed to block ransomware and other cyber attacks.
Failing to reach these standards as a DoD contractor means that you won’t be eligible for government contracts—but even more importantly, if your security is lacking and you’re hit by a ransomware attack, your entire business could be compromised.
In 2020, the average remediation cost after a ransomware attack was $1.85 million—an expense that many businesses are unable to weather.
The Power of Proactivity
Don’t wait for federal or industry regulations to order you to increase your security. Being proactive in updating your cybersecurity will provide long-term security benefits and give you a leg up as CMMC requirements are finalized and implemented.
Finally, here’s a word of caution: Don’t assume that your IT provider is already protecting against this threat unless you’ve specifically discussed it with them. Lots of people think their MSP is already covering their ransomware protection, but the truth is, your provider may not take action until they’ve seen the consequences after you’ve already fallen prey to an attack. Make sure you’ve discussed this service specifically so you understand exactly what’s being taken care of and what’s not.
Ransomware Prevention from SysArc
As we get closer to CMMC implementation, it’s important to remember that the reasons for CMMC aren’t just to protect the government’s data, it’s to protect your business and its assets as well.
Ransomware is a serious threat to all types of businesses, so even for contractors and businesses not associated with the government at all, securing systems against ransomware should be a priority. CMMC just provides a detailed framework for you to follow to achieve this level of security, giving you peace of mind.
SysArc is dedicated to protecting businesses and organizations from cyber threats including ransomware through implementation of the strongest available cybersecurity measures, including CMMC for DoD contractors. Get in touch today to learn how we can protect your business from cyber threats.