Ransomware attacks are a constant threat to companies and individuals worldwide. The methods cybercriminals use to target their victims are diverse and sophisticated. Here are the five most common entry points for ransomware that every system administrator should know:

Phishing & social engineering: This technique remains the number one attack method. Cybercriminals send emails designed to look as if they come from trusted sources in order to get users to click malicious links or open infected attachments.
Compromised websites: Not every website we visit is safe. Even trusted sites can be compromised and redirect users to malicious downloads or install malware directly through the browser.
Malvertising & browser-based attacks: Advertisements can serve as carriers for malicious scripts that download ransomware as soon as they are displayed. Unpatched browsers are particularly vulnerable to such attacks.
Exploit kits: These kits exploit vulnerabilities in software to spread malware. They often target outdated plugins and applications and can go unnoticed until it is too late.
Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) and VPN: Insecure remote access is a popular target for attackers. They use weak or stolen credentials to gain access to networks and spread ransomware.

It is essential that system administrators know these entry points and take appropriate security measures. These include regular employee training, the implementation of security solutions such as firewalls and antivirus programs, regular software updates and patches, and the setup of secure backup systems.

By combining technical and organizational measures, companies can reduce their attack surface and better protect themselves against the growing threat of ransomware.

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