Ransomware Prevention: Best Practices for 2026

Ransomware attacks have become increasingly sophisticated, with attackers now using "double extortion" tactics—not only encrypting your data but also threatening to leak it if the ransom isn't paid. In 2026, a robust ransomware defense is essential for business continuity.

How Ransomware Spreads

Ransomware usually enters an organization through:

1. Phishing Emails: Malicious attachments or links.
2. RDP Exploits: Brute-forcing or exploiting vulnerabilities in Remote Desktop Protocol.
3. Software Vulnerabilities: Exploiting unpatched servers or applications.

Defense-in-Depth Strategies

• Backup Your Data: Use the 3-2-1 rule—3 copies of your data, on 2 different media, with 1 copy off-site and offline (immutable backups).
• Patch Regularly: Keep all software, including operating systems and applications, up to date.
• Endpoint Protection: Use modern EDR (Endpoint Detection and Response) tools that can identify and block ransomware-like behavior.
• Least Privilege: Limit user permissions to only what is necessary for their job.

The Role of Vulnerability Scanning

Identifying the "low-hanging fruit"—like unpatched software or weak credentials—is the first step in preventing a ransomware attack.

At Test and Secure, our advanced automated vulnerability scans are your first line of defense, identifying entry points with enterprise-grade precision. For organizations requiring the highest level of hardening, we offer Manual Expert Analysis as a premium upgrade to identify complex lateral movement paths.

Conclusion

Ransomware is a "when," not "if," scenario for many businesses. By following these best practices and conducting regular security assessments, you can significantly reduce your risk and ensure you're prepared to recover if an attack occurs.