Ransomware is malicious software designed to lock or encrypt files until a ransom is paid. This type of attack is on the rise in Quebec, Canada, and elsewhere in the world.

The targets of these attacks are no longer limited to large companies. First Nations hospitals, schools and community centres are now exposed, as their systems are often less well-protected but just as essential to their proper functioning. A simple click on a malicious link, the use of a weak password, or the opening of an email trap can be enough to paralyze an entire organization.

A concrete example of a ransomware attack: the Change Healthcare case In February 2024, American company Change Healthcare suffered a major ransomware attack. Cybercriminals exploited a compromised user account, which was not protected by multi-factor authentication, to gain access to the system. 

The consequences were major:

• Massive nationwide disruption of health services.

• Disclosure of confidential patient data.

• Financial losses estimated at over $1 billion.

In addition, restoring the systems and managing the aftermath of this attack took many months.

This type of incident could have been avoided with basic security measures, such as multi-factor authentication. However, prevention and collective vigilance remain essential to reduce the risks associated with ransomware.

How can your organization protect itself effectively?
Here are basic measures that should be implemented in any organization, large or small: 

• Enable multi-factor authentication on all accounts.

• Avoid opening links or attachments from suspicious emails.

• Regularly back up to an external hard drive or a secure cloud service.

• Immediately install all security updates for software, browsers and systems.

• Quickly notify the IT team in case of doubt or unusual behaviour.

A collective responsibility 
In an interconnected environment, every action counts. A single click on a malicious link can have consequences for many people, systems and services. 

Protecting your own access also contributes to collective security. Asking questions and remaining vigilant in the face of any suspicious situation are essential. Cybersecurity also relies on cooperation: by sharing information and best practices, everyone strengthens the security of the whole.

For more information: 

• Read the article on the Change Healthcare attack 
  Cybersecurity Dive – February 2024 

• Ransomware awareness poster (printable format) 
  Official poster – CISA (PDF)