Ransomware attack is one of the major cyber-attacks that is employed by attackers through the means of a malicious software. The primary purpose of such attacks is to extort money. This is done by encrypting victim’s data and information until the ransom is paid off. However, there is no guarantee that the data will be recovered even after that. These attacks pose serious threats to the businesses since attackers can destroy them in a single click. It has been discovered that in the recent years, attackers have shifted their focus on targeting the employees in an organization since humans are capable of making erroneous decisions. With the use of such sophisticated attacks, employee of an organization can easily be targeted. This has been proved by the statistics saying that 90% of the cyber-attacks on the organizations are caused by human errors and negligence.
Take the example of Kansas Heart Hospital where attackers attempted to extort more money.
Also, read: Cybercrime: Don’t Become a Statistic
In recent times, ransomware attacks have evolved to an extent where user interaction is not necessary. ‘WannaCry’ and ‘NotPetyaWiper’ are two such examples. This surely helps us understand that rather than becoming one such case, we should ensure the safety of our confidential data and files.
How can we safeguard our employees against Ransomware attacks?
Ransomware attack simulator is an extremely effective tool that imitates real-life attacks in a simulated environment. This helps in safeguarding the sensitive data of any business or organization without encrypting or damaging the data.
Why do organizations need Ransomware attack simulators?
A Ransomware attack simulator works similar to a real-world attack. It hits the system of an employee with a dummy ransomware attack similar to a real one. The only difference lies in the intention of the two. These simulated attacks help employees in developing an understanding about the actual ransomware attacks taking place. With consistent and thorough simulation as well as awareness training, employees are able to develop immunity against real life ransomware attacks.
Which are the best Ransomware attack simulators?
There are a number of ransomware attack simulators available in the market. Here, we will be trying to list the best 5.
1. RanSim by KnowBe4
KnowBe4’s ‘RanSim’ is one of the leading simulated awareness training as well as the phishing platforms that has created awareness amongst thousands of employees with its cloud-based services for ransomware attacks. With a comprehensive awareness training program, it ensures that employees get an understanding of cyber-attacks that take place in real world.
Attack vectors: Ransomware and Ransomware
Simulated Attack Procedure and Training Methodology: KnowBe4 hits the system with simulated attacks that helps employees in dealing with such attacks in real life. Once the attack is over, employees get to know about the red flags that would have alerted them. They also receive statistics related to the simulated attack within 24 hours.
What makes it better?
- Detailed report within 24 hours
- Free phishing test for up to 100 employees
- Training sessions are done through live demonstrations
- Attack comparison amongst industries
- Does not use your files
2. Kratikal’s ThreatCop
Kratikal’s flagship product ThreatCop, is one of the leading simulations and awareness tools in India. Recognized as ‘The Most Innovative Product of the Year 2017’ by DSCI NASSCOM, the tool offers attack simulation for six attack vectors including Phishing, Ransomware, SMShing, Vishing, Risk of removable media and cyber-scams. The tool ensures that employees are capable enough to fight against real life cyber-attacks.
Attack vectors: Ransoware, Phishing, SMShing, Vishing, Risk of removable media and cyber scam
Simulated Attack Procedure and Training Methodology: The tool runs campaign on s employees in four parts including Simulation 1.0, Knowledge Imparting, Assessment and Simulation 2.0
What makes it better?
- Real time dashboard
- Active directory
- Knowledge Imparting done with Learning Management System
- Customizable templates
- Simulates up to 6 attack vectors
- In-house instance
- Available as SaaS
3. Cofense PhishMe
Cofense’s simulator tool PhishMe is one of the best ransomware attack simulation tools in the market. Dummy attacks are run on employees that help in inculcating a sense of awareness as well as develop the capability to detect and report such attacks. Immediate validation of the simulation is provided to the employee that helps them realize their responsiveness towards the simulated attack.
Simulated Attack Procedure and Training Methodology: Phishme simulates attacks that are similar to those in real-life attacks and are relevant in the recent times. Simulated attacks include Phishing, Ransomware, Business Email Compromise etc.
Attack vectors: Ransomware and Phishing
What makes it better?
- Real time dashboard
- Active directory
- Knowledge Imparting with LMS
- Easy Reporting
- Pre-loaded and customizable templates
4. Phishing Box
PhishingBox helps in preparing employees to fight against cyber-attacks with the help of simulation and awareness training. This training program inculcated a sense of awareness against such attacks so that employees are capable to deal with the actual ones. PhishingBox is one of the best ransomware attack simulators available in the market.
Attack Vectors: Ransomware and Phishing
Simulated Attack Procedure and Training Methodology: The dummy attack hits the system of the employee and helps him learn about the modus operandi employed by attackers in real life attacks. If an employee gets victimized by such simulated attacks, he is automatically enrolled in the training course.
What makes it better?
- Repetitive testing and awareness training
- It can be used on any device
- Real time reporting
5. Proofpoint by Wombat
Proofpoint-acquired-Wombat, is a cyber security company that offers simulation and awareness training for cyber-attacks. The company is helping a number of organizations by focusing on employees’ awareness and thus turning them into a shield against these attacks.
Attack Vectors: Ransomware and Phishing
Simulated Attack Procedure and Training Methodology: Just like ThreatCop, Wombat has a four-step process for attack simulation. This includes Assessment, Education, Reinforcement and Measurement. This training has a research-based approach that helps in enhancing employees’ awareness regarding the probable real-life ransomware attacks.
What makes it better?
- Research oriented training program
- Detailed analysis of the recent phishing attacks
- Active directory
Gracy Williams is the co-founder of InfosecUpdates, a blog dedicated for cyber security articles, and is enthusiastically engaged in cyber security research for more than a decade. At the moment, she is aiming to share her ideas with the world through the medium of writing.
