File Dropper Malware Targets Healthcare

As organizations worldwide work to increase data protection, cyber criminals are continuing to launch increased attacks against businesses. One of the greatest risks facing modern organizations are “dropper files.” These common risks are a form of advanced malware that gain entry into business systems through vulnerabilities to gather protected information to sell.

There was a significant spike in dropper file attacks in March, which constituted 90 percent of these malware attacks to date. Healthcare organizations are four times as likely as other industries to be targeted by dropper attacks, which constitute 84 percent of cyber crimes in this niche. This is a major threat in the information security realm, but there are ways businesses can take action to protect themselves against costly data breaches.

 What Is a Trojan Dropper?

A dropper, or Trojan dropper, is a form of file that injects viruses and worms into a computer system. In some cases, these files can execute without being saved to a computer’s disk, which aids in avoiding detection by on-staff IT professionals. Droppers can encompass many forms of information security attack, including ransomware, a term used to describe a common method in which information security attacks are executed.

 According to the security experts at Symantec, the risks are relatively “open-ended,” and the effects on your business can be as varied. Healthcare organizations suffering similar attacks can suffer outages, delays, theft of customer data and loss of patient records. When a program is executing, users may notice absolutely nothing, or in some cases, a fake error message.

 

Due to the incredible sophistication of successful dropper attacks, a comprehensive information security practice is the only effective means of preventing this type of cyber crime. Symantec recommends a variety of approaches, including maximum firewall security, a comprehensive password policy and regular review of user permissions. By reducing vulnerabilities, including unnecessary file sharing and extraneous services, businesses can limit the ways in which dropper files can enter their networks.

Information security is inherently complex. Humans, compromised computers and outdated patches can all present means for dropper attacks to gain entrance to a company’s network. Working with an expert information security consultancy to identify risks can allow businesses of all sizes to prioritize and act upon their greatest vulnerabilities. Experts can assist with creating a broadly focused framework for protection and training.

A sophisticated, varied approach to information security is the only effective means of protection in today’s complex cyber crime climate. By partnering with an experienced IT services provider, your Bay Area business can get started reducing the risk of human error enabling malicious attacks, cut back on network related risks, and develop a comprehensive, customized approach to using technology to protect, preserve and promote your office productivity.