When was the last time you asked yourself, “What would happen if my business suddenly lost access to every file, invoice, and client record?”
That’s not a hypothetical anymore — foreign cybersecurity agencies have issued an urgent warning about a dangerous ransomware group known as Interlock, which has already begun targeting businesses across North America, including Canada.
Before you continue reading, make sure your business is protected — book a FREE Cybersecurity Risk Assessment with MYDWARE IT Solutions today.
The Latest Ransomware Threat Businesses Need to Know About
Interlock surfaced in late 2024 and wasted no time spreading across small and mid-sized organizations. It uses a “double-extortion” strategy — stealing your data before encrypting your systems and demanding payment to unlock them. Victims usually have four days to pay, or the attackers threaten to release confidential data on the dark web.
If your business is still running outdated software, you’re at greater risk. Learn how outdated technology could be silently draining your company’s budget — and leaving the door wide open to these attacks.
How Interlock Slips Into Your Systems
This group doesn’t brute-force its way in. Instead, it relies on deceptive tactics like fake browser updates, phony security pop-ups, and e-mails that look completely legitimate.
Once someone on your team clicks the wrong link, the malware quietly installs itself, steals credentials, and locks down your systems. Worse, Interlock isn’t limited to one platform — it’s designed to attack both Windows and Linux environments, making nearly any business a target.
Small and midsized companies are especially vulnerable because hackers know IT budgets are tighter, and cybersecurity may not always be a top priority.
What Cybersecurity Experts and Foreign Authorities Recommend
International cybersecurity agencies and independent analysts are advising business owners to act now. Here are their top prevention strategies:
1. Keep Systems Patched and Updated
Attackers exploit outdated software every day. Schedule regular updates across all devices and servers to close known security gaps.
2. Turn On Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Even if your password is stolen, MFA can block 99% of unauthorized access attempts. Turn it on for e-mail, banking, and all key systems.
Learn why your competitors are training their teams for cybersecurity — and how small improvements can prevent big disasters.
3. Strengthen Your Network Defences
Firewalls and web filters stop dangerous links before they ever reach your staff. Don’t rely on luck — rely on layered protection.
For deeper insight, check out 5 Risk Assessment Myths That Could Cost Your Business and learn how to spot blind spots in your own setup.
4. Segment Your Network
Separate your systems and data so one compromised device doesn’t take down your entire operation. This simple step can contain a breach before it spreads.
5. Regular Employee Awareness Training
Many attacks start with a single click. Empower your employees to spot phishing e-mails, spoofed websites, and other social engineering tricks.
Why This Warning Matters for Canadian SMBs
Canadian small and medium-sized businesses are being targeted more aggressively each year. Foreign ransomware groups see them as easier wins — fast money with minimal resistance. Losing your client data or financial records isn’t just an inconvenience; it can destroy trust and stall your business for weeks.
Taking proactive steps today is far cheaper than recovering from an attack tomorrow. And the first step is simple: book a FREE Cybersecurity Risk Assessment with MYDWARE IT Solutions and get clear, actionable insight into your current risks.
