Ransomware has become one of the most devastating cyber threats facing Indian businesses. In 2024, India ranked among the top five most targeted countries globally for ransomware attacks. Understanding how to prevent, detect, and respond to ransomware is now a business survival skill.
What is ransomware?
Ransomware is malicious software that encrypts your business data and demands payment — typically in cryptocurrency — for the decryption key. Modern ransomware gangs also exfiltrate data and threaten to publish it if the ransom is not paid ("double extortion").
How ransomware enters Indian businesses
- Phishing emails with malicious attachments or links
- Exposed Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) ports
- Unpatched software vulnerabilities
- Compromised third-party vendor access
- Malicious downloads and drive-by attacks
Ransomware prevention checklist for Indian businesses
- Keep all systems and software patched and updated
- Disable or restrict RDP access
- Implement MFA across all remote access points
- Deploy endpoint detection and response (EDR)
- Train employees to recognise phishing
- Segment your network to limit lateral movement
- Monitor for unusual encryption activity with SOC
Backup strategy to survive a ransomware attack
The only reliable defence against ransomware data loss is a robust, tested backup strategy. Follow the 3-2-1 rule and ensure at least one backup copy is offline and immutable. Test restoration procedures quarterly.
What to do if you're hit by ransomware
- Isolate affected systems immediately — disconnect from network
- Do not pay the ransom without consulting security experts
- Contact your incident response team
- Preserve forensic evidence before recovery
- Report to CERT-In as required under IT Act
Ready to protect your business?
Sahara Cyber Tech provides expert cybersecurity services across India.