As the gatekeepers of digital infrastructure for not only themselves but their clients, the threat of ransomware to managed service providers (MSPs) extends beyond mere technical challenges. It encompasses operational, financial, and reputational risks. MSPs must remain vigilant, well-informed, and armed with effective cybersecurity measures.Today, we delve into this highly pertinent topic – the anatomy of a ransomware attack, specifically focusing on the Dharma ransomware from the Crysis family that eluded firewall and antivirus protection. In this article we’ll guide you step-by-step through the tactics of the Dharma ransomware, how it infiltrates HVTs (high-value targets), evades detection, and impacts the network.From this real-life incident learn how MSPs can safeguard against these attacks and how Managed XDR was able to detect, mitigate, and further harden security defenses to prevent future attacks. Dharma ransomware is a sophisticated cyber threat typically a manual attack, meticulously orchestrated to infiltrate high-value networks. Since this is a manual attack, it's obviously expensive for the attacker and that's why they're pursuing high value networks. With a focus on stealth, Dharma's attackers exploit Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) vulnerabilities using leaked or weak credentials. Alternatively, they employ email spam with cleverly disguised payloads, leveraging double extensions to deceive victims. The attackers even imitate the names of prominent figures, like the President of the United States, to lull victims into a false sense of security.Strengthen Passwords. Discourage attackers by promoting strong password practices and avoiding password reuse. Secure RDP. If RDP is essential, consider altering the default port, enforcing network-level authentication, and restricting connections to known IP addresses. Regular Patching. Keeping systems updated with the latest patches reduces vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit. Embrace Next-Gen Protection. Move beyond conventional antivirus solutions to EDR. Netsurion offers deep learning end point protection and behavioral analysis to identify and combat evolving threats. Robust Backup Strategy. Comprehensive, regularly tested backups are your insurance against data loss in the event of an attack. XDR (Extended Detection and Response). Netsurion’s prowess lies in its ability to correlate signals, uncovering complex attacks that evade traditional defenses. Managed service providers are on the frontlines of cybersecurity battles, safeguarding clients from evolving threats like Dharma ransomware. By understanding the attack chain, bolstering defenses, and embracing Managed XDR, MSPs can proactively protect high-value networks from devastating attacks. MSPs must remain adaptable and vigilant, leveraging modern tools and strategies to stay one step ahead of adversaries.Check out Netsurion’s Managed XDR and Npower Partner Program for a comprehensive solution to help protect you and your clients from devastating ransomware attacks.Watch the full videoRegularly contributed guest blogs are part of MSSP Alert’s sponsorship program. Read more Netsurion guest blogs here.