HBO’s computer network struck by ransomware: hackers leak scripts from popular shows like “Game of Thrones” and demand up to $15 million in ransom.(1) HBO reportedly responded with a $250,000 offer.(2)

Timothy Crosby, Senior Security Consultant for Spohn Security Solutions, says this newest hack evidences the growing risk that companies face with cyber intrusions.

?No company —large or small— is immune to being a target; the HBO saga makes it even more apparent that cyber security teams must remain vigilant to detect and prevent attacks before they happen,? stated Crosby.

THE RUB: malware is growing increasingly sophisticated to the point that it?s virtually impossible to detect using standard cyber security protocols, per Crosby.

Crosby?s solution: to safeguard a network, businesses must identify potential vulnerabilities through an information security risk assessment – with a rapidly changing cybercriminal landscape, static assessments, stale employee training and protocols will not keep up with the dynamics of cyber security today.

Crosby?s top tips:

• Security teams should monitor for aberrant and unexpected behavior, such as accounts being used at odd hours, at multiple locations or while on vacation.
• Businesses should employ a host of protection programs that notify personnel when a threat exists, such as Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems that automatically aggregate events and alerts based on anomalous activity.

Spohn Consulting works with organizations to assess the security status of their networks, information, and systems based on Identification and Authorization resources, e.g., people, hardware, software, policies, and capabilities in place to manage the defense of the enterprise and to react as the situation changes.

1) Kharpal, Arjun. ?HBO Email Suggesting $250,000 Bitcoin Payout to ‘Game of Thrones’ Hackers Is ‘Delay Tactic?: Insider.? CNBC, CNBC, 11 Aug. 2017.
2) ?Hackers Maintain ?Enthusiasm? for HBO Leaks.? Bizjournals.com.