Ransomware enters a network through specific entry points known as attack vectors. Phishing, Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) exploits, and software vulnerabilities are the most frequent culprits.
In this guide, we’ll explore five attack vectors, along with defense tactics to limit exposure. If your organization is currently facing a ransomware attack, we recommend seeking professional assistance immediately. Contact our team at 1-800-237-4200 to discuss options or set up a case online.
1. Phishing and Social Engineering
Phishing remains the most prevalent method for delivering ransomware because it targets the most unpredictable element of any security chain: humans.
Attackers send deceptive emails that appear to be from trusted sources — such as a bank, a well-known vendor, or an internal department — to trick employees into clicking a malicious link or opening an infected attachment.
Once a user interacts with the message or clicks the link, a downloader (or dropper) is executed on the machine.
Strategic Defense Against Phishing
The first line of defense here is a robust email filter. Regular security awareness training is also key: Employees need to know how to recognize suspicious requests before they engage with them. We also suggest configuring email clients to block macros (small programs used to automate tasks in documents) by default, as these are frequently used to hide malicious scripts.
2. Exploiting Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)
Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) allows administrators and employees to access computers from remote locations. While convenient, RDP is a favorite target for ransomware groups because many organizations leave RDP ports (typically port 3389, but not exclusively) open to the internet without adequate protection.
Cybercriminals use brute-force tools to systematically guess passwords until they find a match. Once they gain access, they can manually disable antivirus software, delete local backups, and execute the ransomware. Our engineers frequently see cases where attackers spend days or weeks inside a network after an RDP breach, carefully mapping out the environment (and in some cases, ensuring that payloads are present on all air-gapped backups) before finally triggering the encryption.
Strategic Defense Against RDP Exploits
Exposing RDP directly to the public internet creates an unnecessary and significant risk. Instead, require the use of a Virtual Private Network (VPN) with Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) to access remote systems. Limiting login attempts and using complex, unique passwords across all accounts will also significantly lower the risk of a successful brute-force attack.
For a comprehensive look at securing these entry points, the CISA #StopRansomware Guide offers excellent technical frameworks.
3. Unpatched Software Vulnerabilities
Software developers regularly release security patches to fix bugs or vulnerabilities that hackers could exploit. When an organization fails to apply these updates promptly, they leave a door open for ransomware. These attacks often target common applications like browsers, operating systems, or server-side software.
In some instances, attackers utilize Zero-Day exploits (vulnerabilities that are not yet known to the software vendor). These are harder to defend against, but the vast majority of ransomware events we analyze involve exploits for which a patch had already been available for months.
Strategic Defense Against Software Vulnerabilities
Establishing a rigorous patch management policy ensures that critical updates are not overlooked. Prioritize updates for internet-facing systems and infrastructure that handles sensitive data. Organizations should consult the documentation for their specific operating system or server software to automate these updates where possible.
4. Compromised Credentials and Credential Stuffing
Attackers often obtain usernames and passwords from previous data breaches at other companies. Because people frequently reuse the same password across multiple platforms, a leak at one service provider can provide the keys to a corporate network.
Credential stuffing (using lists of leaked credentials to automate logins) allows ransomware operators to walk through the front door without needing to write a single line of malicious code.
Strategic Defense Against Credential Theft
Enforcing the use of a password manager ensures that employees use unique, high-entropy passwords for every service. More importantly, deploy Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) across the entire enterprise — MFA renders those stolen credentials useless.
5. Drive-By Downloads and Malvertising
A drive-by download occurs when a user visits a legitimate but compromised website, and malware is automatically downloaded to their device without their knowledge or consent.
Similarly, malvertising involves injecting malicious code into digital ads. Ads might be hosted on reputable sites, which obviously complicates your defense strategy.
Strategic Defense Against Malicious Downloads
Modern web browsers feature built-in security protections that should be kept updated at all times. We also recommend using ad-blocking software and web-filtering tools to prevent connections to known malicious domains. Restricting administrative privileges on standard user accounts can also prevent malware from installing itself even if a download is initiated.
Restore Data with Confidence
Data recovery after a ransomware attack requires a combination of specialized forensic tools and deep architectural knowledge of file systems. At Datarecovery.com, we operate purpose-built laboratories designed to handle the most complex encryption scenarios.
Our team offers risk-free evaluations and a no data, no charge guarantee, ensuring that you only pay for successful results. We prioritize transparency and security throughout the entire process, helping you minimize downtime and avoid the ethical and financial complications of paying a ransom.
If your systems have been compromised and you need to recover critical files safely, create a case online or call us at 1-800-237-4200 to speak with an expert.
