Being held for ransom seems like something that only happens in the movies. But computers at collision repair shops frequently get held for ransom in what’s called a ransomware attack.
This is happening to other industries, but it’s becoming more frequent in our industry. The number of automotive repairers with cyber risk coverage in their garage insurance package is growing but still represents a small percentage.
Don’t Get Held for Ransom
So what can you do to avoid ransomware and other cybersecurity attacks? And how can you make sure your insurance covers you? Ransomware attacks occur when someone seizes control of an organization’s computer system or digital information, agreeing to release it only after a ransom has been paid. Since ransomware is typically spread through phishing emails or by visiting an infected website, shop owners should be especially cautious when opening attachments or links from suspicious emails. Keeping antivirus software up to date should also help block these threats.
How to Respond to a Computer Kidnapper
If a hacker does infiltrate your system, most experts do not recommend paying the ransom, since there’s no guarantee they’ll return the files or haven’t already copied the files. If paying the ransom is the only choice, be familiar with your insurance policy to know if cyberattacks are covered.
The normal ransomware provision pays for rebuilding the system and database, which can take 30 days or more. Other providers usually don’t reimburse or pay the actual ransom request – usually bitcoin – which offers an immediate fix. Intrepid’s provision pays for the ransom request because it was designed for what’s actually happening in the industry, and we plan to continue strengthening it for our customers’ protection.
Insurance to the Rescue
Intrepid Direct Insurance offers cyber risk coverage to all collision shops as part of our suite of comprehensive coverage.
If you’re a current customer, check your policy to make sure you opted in for cyber risk coverage. If you didn’t, contact your Customer Success Manager to add the coverage to your current policy.
Not a customer? Start your quote today online or over the phone. Intrepid automatically offers cyber risk coverage – along with nine other industry-leading coverages – as part of our comprehensive coverage.
