In Part 1 of this blog series The Ransomware Threat: Preparing Schools and Libraries for Ransomware Attacks, we discussed creating a pre-incident plan that includes a backup process, asset management, identity and access management, risk-based vulnerability management, and security awareness training to minimize the risk of ransomware attacks. In continuing the discussion on how schools and libraries can build a resilient security strategy, it is equally important to implement efficient response methods in the event an incident does occur. Here we will focus on how to quickly detect and recover from ransomware attacks, as well as how to leverage insights gained from post-breach evaluations to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Multi-Layered Prevention
It is no longer a matter of if, but when an attack occurs. The best way education leaders can ensure incident preparedness and efficient response plans is to create a multi-layered defense strategy. In Gartner’s report, How to Prepare for Ransomware Attacks, Gartner emphasizes the importance of creating a peri-incident and post-incident response plan. This plan should encompass measures for detecting and mitigating incidents, followed by strategies for recovery and performing root-cause analysis. The insights gathered from this analysis should then be integrated back into the preparation plan to enhance future readiness.
The following describes the key components of Gartner’s peri-incident and post-incident response plan:
Peri-Incident Response
- Detection & Mitigation Stay ahead of continuously evolving threat actors with behavioral, anomaly-based technologies. By identifying unusual patterns of behavior, potential ransomware attacks can be detected and mitigated before they have a chance to affect operations. collect indicators of compromise can assist in quick recovery. Regularly conducting tabletop tests to identify weaknesses can also speed up response and recovery times.
Post-Incident Response
Recovery
Recovering from ransomware goes beyond data restoration and requires complex steps to restore machines to a reliable state. Utilizing endpoint detection and response (EDR) and network detection and response (NDR) tools to collect indicators of compromise can assist in quick recovery. Regularly conducting tabletop tests to identify weaknesses can also speed up response and recovery times.
Root Cause Analysis
Once recovery begins, it is important to gather data to pinpoint the attack’s root cause and identify failed controls. This is accomplished through analyzing system data, user activity, and other digital evidence to understand what happened during the attack. Working with an incident response team and digital forensics experts to uncover these details can help prevent future attacks. After systems are restored, the learnings from post-attack analysis help enhance future preparedness.
Taking Action: Bringing in the Experts
Protecting organizations from ransomware attacks requires a variety of security tools and controls, which often necessitate expertise beyond what educational institutions typically possess. Maintaining a security operations center (SOC) requires staff with specialized skillsets and can put strain on internal resources. By partnering with a managed security service provider like LevelBlue, schools and libraries can enhance their security posture through proactive incident preparedness measures, efficient incident response, and comprehensive post-incident analysis.
LevelBlue simplifies cybersecurity strategy planning in the face of a complex, evolving threat landscape. LevelBlue offers a comprehensive suite of incident readiness and response services, including risk assessments, vulnerability management, incident response planning, breach investigations, and employee training. These are customized to meet an organization’s specific requirements, ensuring proactive prevention and mitigation of cyber incidents. By leveraging top-tier solutions and technology, LevelBlue helps organizations proactively prepare and quickly react to ransomware threats.
LevelBlue offers the following post-breach services to recover from an incident with confidence:
- Rapid Response: Quickly identify, contain, and remediate security incidents. LevelBlue experts conduct in-depth investigations to determine how the breach occurred, what vulnerabilities were exploited, and what actions need to be taken to address the underlying issues.
- Expert Guidance: Receive guidance on communication strategies across various security and leadership teams, ensuring that everyone is on the same page and working toward a common goal.
- Reporting: Document evidence collection, generate incident reports, and conduct post-incident analysis to assist with demonstrating compliance and handling any potential legal issues.
- Continuous Updates: Review the IRR plan on a regular basis and make recommendations for improvements to enhance incident preparedness and adjust to organizational changes.
Learn more about how LevelBlue can help schools and libraries. Contact our security experts today to discuss your specific needs and challenges.
