Ransomware Attacks are Rising – are Your Backups Really Secure?

Imagine this: You sit down at your desk, ready to start the workday, but instead of your usual files, a terrifying message appears. Hackers have locked all your data, and they demand a ransom to unlock it.

This ransomware attack can stop your business in its tracks. Unfortunately, these attacks are becoming more common, even in Southwest Oklahoma. Cybercriminals frequently target small and medium-sized businesses because they often lack strong security measures.

How Ransomware Works

Hackers break into your systems and encrypt (lock) your files, making them useless. Then, they demand payment, usually in cryptocurrency, in exchange for the key to unlock them.

However, even if you pay, you might never get your data back. In many cases, businesses lose access to their critical files and their money. That’s why taking proactive steps, like setting up a strong backup system, is one of the best ways to protect your business.

Why Every Business Needs Reliable Backups

A backup creates a copy of your important files and stores them separately from your main network. If ransomware or accidental deletion affects your business, you can restore your data quickly and keep working.

But here’s the problem: not all backups provide the same level of security. Many businesses assume they are safe just because they have backups. However, outdated systems can leave them vulnerable to modern cyber threats. Also, that little external drive that sits on top of the server, you know who you are, won’t keep your backups safe either.

The Hidden Dangers of Weak Backup Systems

Cybercriminals continue to evolve their tactics, and old backup solutions can’t keep up. Here’s why outdated backups put your business at risk:

1. Hackers Target Your Backups

Cybercriminals know that backups help businesses recover, so they attack them first. If your backup system doesn’t include security measures, hackers can delete or encrypt your backups, leaving you with no way to restore your files.

This means that even if you have backups, they may not be there when you need them most.

2. No Encryption Leaves Data Exposed

Encryption scrambles data, making it unreadable without the proper key. Without it, hackers can easily tamper with or destroy your backup files. Shockingly, nearly one in three businesses still use unsecured backups, exposing them to unnecessary risks.

As a result, businesses that don’t use encryption could face total data loss, even if they thought they were protected.

3. Failed Backups Can Be Costly

Having a backup won’t help if it fails when you need it. Many businesses don’t test their backups, only to find out they can’t recover their data after an attack.

This often leads to long downtimes, lost revenue, and expensive recovery efforts—none of which small businesses can afford.

How to Protect Your Business

So, how can you stay ahead of ransomware attacks? The best defense is a modern backup system with built-in security features.

1. Use Immutable Storage

With immutable storage, your backups stay safe because no one—not even hackers—can alter or delete them. This means that even if cybercriminals breach your network, they won’t be able to touch your backup data.

2. Adopt a Zero Trust Approach

Zero Trust security ensures that no one gets automatic access—not even employees or familiar devices. Every request must pass strict security checks, making it nearly impossible for hackers to reach your sensitive data.

Take Action Before It’s Too Late

Ransomware attacks don’t just affect large corporations. Small and medium-sized businesses in Southwest Oklahoma face the same risks and many struggle to recover after an attack.

The good news? You don’t have to tackle this alone. We help local businesses secure their data with modern backup and security solutions.

If you’re unsure where to start, let’s talk. Contact us today and take the first step toward protecting your business.