Thursday Buzz: Preparing for a Ransomware Attack

The Petya cyberattack in the Ukraine earlier this week brought ransomware attacks back into the headlines. It may only be a matter of time until your association is hit by one. So, how should you prepare?

The DelCor blog shares some advice on preventing a ransomware attack  (opens in a new tab), so you won’t have to shell out money to get back your important files.

Ransomware can invade your network through any number of ways, including a simple phishing email. Someone at your association could open an email that leads them to click on an infected site. “When you land on a compromised website where malicious code has been inserted in content or images, ransomware is automatically downloaded to your computer,” write Chris Ecker and Chris Kasmark.

Once downloaded, the ransomware will encrypt the files on the local computer and then spread throughout your network. If this happens, you only have two options: Ignore it and restore your network using backups. Or pay the ransom.

To prevent this from happening, association leaders must build a cybersecurity-aware culture—your IT department alone can’t stop this. Make sure that all employees know that they are responsible for the security of your association.

Quiet Revolution

How To (Secretly) Break Down Organizational Silos https://t.co/pNWOb7lJdn  (opens in a new tab)

— Molly Flood (@mollyrflood) June 28, 2017  (opens in a new tab)

Breaking down silos is a common—maybe even cliche—refrain in the association space. But you can bring about organizational transformation without shouting “cultural change” from the rooftop.

“I have had success in making change by using technology and data to get people into an unfamiliar zone: When they don’t necessarily have expertise in these areas, they have to be a little more willing to engage in a conversation,” writes Jessica Hammond in a recent Association Success article  (opens in a new tab). “Through that process I have found it possible to shift and move people and their perspectives.”

Other Links of Note

Meeting technology has evolved a lot in the past several years. Plan It On A Post-it shares a look at the tech to come  (opens in a new tab).

Is your association using grants to generate revenue? SocialFish reveals a few ways to maximize your fundraising  (opens in a new tab).

Employee burnout isn’t just about workload or exhaustion. It can also indicate loneliness. Harvard Business Review shares ways leaders can help  (opens in a new tab).

(iStock/Thinkstock)