Even before the Russian invasion of Ukraine, cyber and ransomware attacks originating from Russia were a problem.  But, as Western nations slap a barrage of strict economic sanctions on Russia for invading Ukraine, U.S. banks are preparing for retaliatory cyber-attacks according to cyber experts and executives (Elizabeth Dilts Marshall, REUTERS®, U.S. banks prepare for cyber-attacks after latest Russia sanctions, February 27^th, 2022, https://www.reuters.com/markets/europe/us-banks-prepare-cyber-attacks-after-latest-russia-sanctions-2022-02-27/).  Due to the wide spectrum of targets and sophistication of cyber and ransomware attacks originating from Russia in recent years, small business owners and PC and Mac users would be wise to follow U.S. banks in taking steps today to protect their computers and networks.  Depending on the nature of your business and personal computer use, the range of options to protect your computer and network may seem complicated and out of reach.  At RB’s Computer Service, we get it!  Fortunately, there are several steps the average small business and PC user can take today that are uncomplicated and affordable.  In this blog, I’ll highlight several of them with links to “Learn More.”  However, if you need help devising and implementing a plan to help protect your computers and networks from cyber and ransomware attacks, don’t hesitate to contact RB’s Computer Service today via phone or email at: 763-441-3884 or help@rbsmn.com.

What Can I Do to Protect My Computers and Network? 

Start with the basics while building layers of protection.  Plus, increase your knowledge of cyber security threats and how you can help prevent them.  For the former, use the list below to identify what you are missing.  For the latter, click on the “Learn More” links to increase your knowledge of cyber security threats.  But common sense also plays a big role in protecting your computers and network.  For example, using birthdays for passwords and Post-It Notes to remember them, is not a sound way to protect your login security.  Nor should you click on things that are too good to be true.  In addition to using good anti-virus software, below are some things that will help prevent cyber and ransomware attacks:

• Password Protection.  Learn More.

• Encrypted Email.  Learn More.

• Consider using a VPN.  Learn More.

• Commercial Grade Routers.  Learn More.

• Avoid Social Media and Phishing Scams.  Learn More.  

• Vet Cryptocurrency Platforms and Investments.  Learn More.  

• Back Up Everything.  Learn More. 

For many people, devising and implementing a cyber security plan seems out of reach for a variety of reasons.  Lack of time to get started is one obstacle, another is the investment.  But the reality is, cyber security programs are very affordable, for both small businesses and individuals.  RB’s Computer Service can help you with the items listed above.  We also offer monthly Managed IT Service Agreements.  For the price one pays for lunch each day of the month, a small business owner could enroll in one of our monthly Managed IT Service Agreements.  Whether you’re concerned about a Russian cyber-attack or not, cyber and ransomware attacks are on the rise, and small businesses are targeted more today than large corporations.  For a hassle-free cyber security consultation, contact RB’s Computer Service today via phone or email at: 763-441-3884 or help@rbsmn.com.   In addition to helping protect your computer and network from cyber and ransomware attacks, RB’s Computer Service sells the best commercial-grade firewall routers, best laptop computers, best desktop computers, business computers, computer parts, and computer monitors.  For iPhone, smartphone repair, and tablet repairs, do not hesitate to contact us.  We work with customers and clients locally and throughout central Minnesota and St. Cloud.