There has been a lot of talk of cyber-attacks in the news lately. Computer hackers break into a company’s files to steal information or prevent them from operating.
Justin Perron is the CEO of the Lexington based cyber-security company 13 Layers. He said ransomware is a common tool used by those looking to cause harm.
“They hold that data hostage and they encrypt all the company’s files and then they demand a ransom to provide a key to unlock those files. That’s the one everyone hears about. The problem with that is, if you pay that ransom, there is no guarantee you will get your data back and if they do give you your data back, there is no guarantee that they’re not going to come back again.”
He said his industry needs more people to combat cyber-threats.
“There’s so much malicious traffic coming into networks, it requires professionals to understand how it works, to provide the appropriate intelligence backed IT companies and IT teams in order to protect them. The bottom line is, the industry is desperate for people and unless we do it at a local, regional, and national level, it’s going to be a few years before this challenge gets solved.”
Perron said his company is working with the University of Kentucky and others in hosting a cyber security workshop. It is taking place this evening at the Cornerstone on UK’s campus.
He said there are several ways individuals can protect themselves. He says using an antivirus software is a start, along with using a firewall and check them often.
