Cybersecurity experts are issuing alerts to property holders throughout Tarrant County, Texas. Following a ransomware attack on the Tarrant Appraisal District (TAD). Experts advise immediate action to vigilantly monitor credit status, promptly update financial passwords for accounts and bill payments, and ensure passwords are sufficiently complex.
TAD reported that their system was breached on March 21, resulting in the their website going offline. They have informed both the FBI and the Texas Department of Information Resources. This incident marks the second attack since 2022.
Ransomware Remediation
Hackers likely exploited the same vulnerability. TAD has stated they will not yield to the ransom demand but will instead implement various cybersecurity enhancements. These include transitioning to Microsoft Office 365 for enhanced security, auditing, and tooling purposes. Additionally, TAD plans to procure cybersecurity software and engage in a partnership with IT providers for network support, security, and system review.
Cybersecurity Tips for Small Businesses
Small businesses can also do a lot to protect themselves from ransomware and other cybercrime. Here are a few tips to help keep computers and people safe:
- Keep software updated: Regularly update operating systems, antivirus software, and applications to patch security vulnerabilities.
- Use strong passwords: Create complex passwords using a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters. Consider using a password manager to securely store and manage passwords.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Add an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone, when logging into accounts.
- Educate employees: Train employees on cybersecurity best practices, including how to recognize phishing emails, avoid clicking on suspicious links, and protect sensitive information.
- Get in touch with a managed IT services provider: Managed Services Providers (MSPs) do more than simply fix broken computers. MSPs essentially become an organization’s IT department, and will do a lot to proactively remediate small IT issues before they become huge problems.
- Backup data regularly: Regularly back up important data to an external hard drive or cloud storage service. This ensures that data can be recovered in case of ransomware attacks or other data breaches.
- Implement network security measures: Install firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and antivirus software to protect against malware and unauthorized access to networks.
- Secure Wi-Fi networks: Change default passwords on routers and use strong encryption protocols (such as WPA2 or WPA3) to secure Wi-Fi networks. Consider hiding the network name (SSID) and enabling network encryption.
- Limit access to sensitive information: Restrict access to sensitive data to only those who need it for their job functions. Implement user permissions and access controls to prevent unauthorized access.
- Monitor accounts for suspicious activity: Regularly review account activity for any signs of unauthorized access or suspicious transactions. Report any unusual activity to the appropriate authorities or IT support team.
By implementing these cybersecurity measures, individuals and small business owners can reduce their risk of falling victim to cybercrime and better protect their sensitive information and assets.
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