Ransomware Protection for Small and Medium Businesses

Ransomware remains one of the most damaging cyber threats facing UK businesses, with attackers encrypting critical data and demanding payment for its release. Smaller businesses are increasingly targeted, often because attackers assume their defences are weaker. Kixo helps businesses put practical protection in place.

How ransomware attacks typically happen

Most ransomware attacks start with a phishing email, a compromised remote access point, or exploiting outdated, unpatched software. Once inside a network, attackers can spread quickly, encrypting files and systems before demanding payment for their release.

Building layered protection

No single measure fully protects against ransomware, which is why we take a layered approach:

Email security to filter out phishing attempts before they reach staff inboxes
Endpoint protection to detect and block malicious software on devices
Patch management to close known vulnerabilities before they can be exploited
Multi-factor authentication to prevent unauthorised access even if a password is compromised
Staff training so your team can recognise and avoid common attack methods
Immutable, tested backups that can’t be encrypted by an attack, ensuring you can recover without paying a ransom

Why backups are your last line of defence

Even with strong preventative measures, no protection is completely foolproof. Reliable, regularly tested backups mean that even in the worst case, your business can recover its data without being forced to consider paying a ransom.

What to do if you’re affected

If you suspect a ransomware attack, disconnect affected systems from the network immediately and contact your IT support provider. Acting quickly can limit how far an attack spreads.