When was the last time you stopped to think, “What would actually happen to my business if all our files were suddenly locked away?”

That is the nightmare scenario the FBI is warning about right now. They have issued a new security alert about a ransomware group called Interlock.

If you have not heard of them before, here is what you need to know.

Interlock only appeared in September 2024, but they are already targeting businesses and infrastructure in North America and Europe.

This group is focused on making money. Their method is simple but dangerous: break into your systems, quietly steal sensitive data, and then encrypt everything so you cannot access it. After that, they demand a ransom, usually giving you about four days to pay, or they threaten to post your files on the dark web.

This “double-extortion” tactic is becoming common with ransomware gangs, but Interlock is proving to be especially aggressive.

Their break-in methods are clever. They use fake browser or security updates, booby-trapped websites, and other tricks that make it easy to click without thinking. Once inside, they drop malicious tools that let them spy, steal passwords, move through your network, and lock down your files.

They do not care what kind of system you use. Interlock has tools for both Windows and Linux, which means almost any business could be a target.

You might wonder what this means for your business. The truth is, ransomware does not just hit big companies you see in the news. Small and midsize businesses are prime targets because attackers know they often have smaller security budgets and can be easier to breach.

Imagine losing access to your client files, financial data, or the systems you rely on every day. Even if you recover, the damage to your reputation can be just as costly as the downtime.

So, what can you do?

The FBI’s advice is clear:

• Keep your systems patched and updated so attackers cannot exploit known flaws.
• Turn on multi-factor authentication wherever you can. That extra code after your password is one of the simplest ways to block attacks.
• Use web filtering and firewalls to keep malicious sites out.
• Segment your network so if one part gets infected, the whole business does not go down.
• Invest in security tools that can detect and stop suspicious behavior before it spreads.

This might seem technical, but taking action now is much less painful and expensive than dealing with an attack after it happens. The FBI does not issue warnings like this without reason. Interlock is a real threat, and now is the perfect time to make sure your business is protected.

If you want help keeping your business secure, we are here for you. Reach out any time.