Another attack by a Russian hacking group – here is some important advice about malware

New Sandworm malware Cyclops Blink replaces VPNFilter – NCSC.GOV.UK

Russia’s most cutthroat hackers infect network devices with new botnet malware | Ars Technica

US and UK expose new Russian malware targeting network devices – The Record by Recorded Future

Protect yourself from malware – some general advice

Malware in general is distributed through various channels such as a malicious email or website.

Make sure you do this:

• Use a well respected (not free) anti-virus/email/internet security and protection package on your devices – Octagon Technology recommends ESET.
• Keep that software up to date – let it do its thing automatically.
• Do not ignore the the advice your software gives you – if it deleted or blocked a file, document or link you do not need go and look at it to make sure! If you do not think that happens then I will let you talk to my engineers!
• Just automatically delete malicious email content.
• Let your security software scan your system regularly – if your AV solution slows your system too much then dump it (no matter how much time is left on the subscription) and get another.
• Do not browse dodgy websites and if a site is block by your protection software do not ignore it – see above.
• Have policies and procedures in place so you and your team know what is expected of them.
• Get trained so you know how to deal with email threats and social engineering.