How to Protect Internet-Connected NAS From Ransomware

Have you ever advised someone to not use public Wi-Fi for bank transactions? The logic behind this is that anyone can access the public internet, leaving your device exposed to malicious attacks. Although internet-connected NAS (Network-Attached Storage) devices are a lot safer than public Wi-Fi, it still is used by a large number of people, making them somewhat vulnerable. So, if your business stores sensitive data on a NAS device, you need to take steps to protect yourself from ransomware.

To protect your internet-connected NAS device from malicious attacks, you must create a line of defense using security protocols that can help you prevent ransomware.

Ransomware is a form of malware that encrypts files on a device or network, rendering them unusable. Ransomware attacks are becoming common as cybercriminals target firms of all sizes in an attempt to profit. Any business using Internet-connected devices or networks should have ransomware protection.

Top Summary: NAS device can help your teams have a better interaction since it connects the network and everyone that is part of such network can access it. But, it’s also a vulnerability that needs protection so you can keep all data integrity. Following the steps to accomplish it is vital for your business to properly work.

What is NAS? 

Network-attached storage (NAS) device allows a computer to connect to a network, which can be your home or small business, that provides file-based data storage services. It also allows other computers and devices associated with that network to access the data. 

You can use a NAS device as central repositories for data backups or as primary storage for virtualization applications. A NAS device has its own operating system and shares data over the network using protocols such as NFS (Network File System), AFP (Apple Filing Protocol), and SMB (Server Message Block).

Summary: Internet-connected NAS is an option for businesses to create file storage that can be shared to a specified network. But, when connected to a router, it is also vulnerable to ransomware attacks.

How to protect internet-connected NAS?

Fortunately, there are things you can do to protect your NAS from ransomware attacks. The first step is to make sure that your device or network is protected with the latest security services updates. You should also use strong passwords and authentication methods to help reduce the risk of unauthorized access. And, of course, make sure to set an automatic backup of all data to another storage device or a cloud service.

Another way to protect your NAS is to install ransomware protection software. An example can be Pico-UTM. It can help you protect your internet-connected NAS from ransomware attacks by providing a combo of antivirus, firewall, and anti-WebTreath.

When looking for security software for your internet-connected NAS, make sure it provides, if not all, most of these protections and alerts:

– Blocking ransomware attacks before they can reach your network

– Detecting ransomware activities and preventing them from spreading to other devices on your network

– Cleaning up infected devices and restoring them to their previous state

– Providing you with reports on ransomware activities so that you can take further action to protect your business.

Even with all the protection you can provide your NAS device with, you should always have a plan to recover data in case of something fails.

Summary: Protecting an internet-connect NAS device requires you and the network to keep the security system updated, use strong passwords, and set automatic and regular updates to a secure device. When choosing the protection software be aware of what it offers so it can cover as many threats and send you status reports. And keeping a recovery emergency plan can also prevent data loss.

It’s critical to update your NAS systems with the most recent security updates to protect your data from ransomware. You should also think about using a backup solution that stores data off-site or in the cloud. This will allow you to recover your data if your NAS device is compromised by ransomware.

In the case of a NAS device that has been already compromised, you can easily contact one of our experts that will promptly help you recover the data.

And, if you think your business may be at risk for a ransomware attack, contact a trusted IT security provider to assess your current security posture and make recommendations for improvement.