Ransomware attacks breach systems, usually through infected email, and lock essential files or networks until the user pays a specified amount of money. On the other hand, Doxware is far more dangerous. This latest form of malware holds a company’s data hostage, including intellectual property, and can compromise the privacy of conversations, photos, and sensitive files.
Owners whose businesses were being compromised by ransomware quickly figured out payment could be avoided by wiping a system clean and then restoring it with backup drives. They could then promptly go on about their day no longer being held hostage. So, it didn’t take cybercriminals long to realize their attacks needed to become more drastic. With increased ransom avoidance, cybercriminals created the even more crafty Doxware – malware that combines ransom with personal data leaks.
Just like ransomware, hackers hold a company’s data hostage until the victim pays the ransom. The difference is doxware takes the attack further by threatening if the ransom isn’t paid, criminals will release intellectual property and the privacy of conversations, photos, and sensitive files. And due to the threatened release, it’s harder to avoid paying the ransom, making the attack more profitable for hackers.
Doxware requires strategic, end-to-end planning because hackers target victims more deliberately and more intentionally. So, while the technology behind Doxware is still new, it is expected this problem will worsen. And, while recent attacks have been contained to Windows desktop computers and laptops, this will undoubtedly change within time. Once the malware can infiltrate mobile devices, the threat will become even more prevalent with text messages, photos, and data from apps at risk of leaking. This means your current protection won’t help you in case of an attack unless you have encrypted protection.
Centrality’s Anchor neutralizes Doxware because your sensitive data is always encrypted. Even if they manage to steal your information, they can’t use it against you. The decryption keys are secured offsite by Anchor and are never saved with the data. You, and only you, are capable of decrypting your files. Defending against Doxware means anchoring your data.
Sometimes the best defense is a good offense. Take pride in knowing that you protected your confidential information from would-be doxers using the same method their Ransomware used to make you a victim.
