Modern ransomware attacks aren't smash-and-grabs. They’re surgical operations that follow a cold, calculated script:

• Break in. Phishing emails, compromised credentials, or unpatched vulnerabilities let them inside. 

• Set up shop. Attackers plant backdoors and map out your network like they own the place.

• Steal first, lock later. Sensitive data is exfiltrated before encryption, setting up a double-extortion play.

• Paralyze everything. Files get locked down, operations grind to a halt, and the ransom note arrives. 

• Apply pressure. Countdown clocks, threats to leak data, and public humiliation tactics force your hand. 

It's like watching a team of professional bank robbers case the joint, disable the alarms, take hostages, clean out the vault, and then demand ransom—except they can do it to dozens of targets simultaneously while sitting safely behind their keyboards. Understanding this attack sequence is your first step to implementing effective protection from ransomware.

Average Activity Before Ransomware Takes Hold

Average number of actions taken before triggering ransomware

• 18

Of incidents observed by Huntress in 2024 saw data exfiltration as the top action taken before ransomware dropped

• 71%

Pre-ransomware notifications sent by the Cybersecurity Infrastructure and Security Agency (CISA) in 2024 (as of Nov. of same year)

• 2,131

Number of pre-ransomware notifications CISA sent in 2024 over 2023

• 2x 

Before Ransomware Strikes: Attack Playbook

Lock down your network

Your network perimeter is your perimeter fence. Leave the gate open, and attackers stroll right in.

• Use enterprise-grade firewalls with deep packet inspection.

• Secure remote desktop protocol (RDP)—a way to close your hacker’s favorite open door.

• Enforce multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all remote access.

• Patch like your business depends on it. Because it does!

• Segment your network so an attacker in one area can’t own the whole system.

Harden your endpoints

Every computer, server, and device is a potential entry point. Treat them like front doors to your digital fortress.

• Deploy next-gen antivirus with behavioral analysis (not just signature-based scans)

• Use application whitelisting. If it’s not on the list, it doesn’t run.

• Implement DNS filtering to block shady connections.

• Enable Microsoft's Attack Surface Reduction rules.

• Consider endpoint detection and response (EDR) for rapid threat hunting.

When looking at how to protect your business from ransomware, endpoint protection should be a top priority.

Train your human firewall

Your employees are both your weakest link and your strongest defense.

• Run phishing simulationsto train them against real-world threats.

• Create an open security culture. If something looks fishy, they should report it without fear of criticism or blowback.

• Give them clear security policies. Don’t be vague or haphazard. 

Protect backups from ransomware

Attackers love destroying backups, so yours need to be untouchable. To protect backups from ransomware:

• Follow the 3-2-1 backup rule (3 copies, 2 different media types, 1 offline).

• Use immutable storage that attackers can’t alter.

• Test your restores, because a backup that doesn’t work is worthless.

• Keep backup credentials separate and locked down.

Detect threats early

If ransomware is a break-in, early detection is your silent alarm.

• Deploy Huntress Ransomware Canaries, which are files that trigger alerts if encrypted.

• Monitor for unusual logins and network activity.

• Set up honeypots. Fake data lures can expose intruders.

• Use anomaly detection to catch attackers before they strike.

Prepare for the worst

When ransomware hits, every minute counts. To respond as quickly as possible, you should:

• Have a tested incident response plan. 

• Define roles and responsibilities.

• Pre-write communication templates.

• Establish contacts with law enforcement and legal teams.

• Know your stance on ransom payments before you’re forced to decide.

What is the best protection against ransomware?

The best protection combines multiple defensive layers: robust endpoint security, regularly tested backups, user training, network segmentation, and early detection, like ransomware canaries. 

How can ransomware be prevented?

Stopping ransomware means making attackers work harder than they’re willing to. Patch everything, lock down email, train your team to spot threats, secure remote access, deploy endpoint protection, and build backup systems that attackers can't reach. The harder you make it, the quicker they move on to an easier target.

How do I enable ransomware protection?

Start with the basics. Built-in ransomware protection is a good first line of defense. Then go pro by deploying serious endpoint security, whitelisting only trusted apps, locking down backups, and bringing in heavy-hitting detection like Huntress Ransomware Canaries.

No magic bullet will take out ransomware, but layered security is the best defense.

• Think like an attacker. Anticipate their moves.

• Build resilience with strong backups, detection, and response plans.

• Stay paranoid. In cybersecurity, paranoia is just another word for preparedness.

Protect your business before ransomware comes knocking. Because when it does, you won’t have time to wish that you had.