3-2-1: A Proven Defense Against Ransomware Attacks
For many, backups are still seen as a tedious, obligatory task on the IT to-do list. But in the event of a ransomware attack, proper data protection can save both nerves and business operations. The experts at Kingston are highlighting the importance of the 3-2-1 backup strategy — an effective, straightforward approach to safeguarding both corporate documents and personal files against data loss and cyberattacks.
According to a recent survey, one in five Hungarian companies has already fallen victim to a ransomware attack, with global incidents reaching record highs. This increasingly severe cybersecurity threat can affect virtually anyone — from large enterprises and small businesses to individual users. Attackers no longer focus solely on big corporations; instead, they use automated, mass-targeting methods to strike at poorly protected systems, including those of individuals and SMEs.
Small and medium-sized businesses, in particular, often lack dedicated IT security personnel, making it harder for them to respond to such incidents. Yet the consequences can be severe — not just data loss, but operational downtime and reputational damage as well.
“Those who’ve already been hit by such an attack rarely get their data back — paying the ransom is no guarantee,” warns Norbert Kaszál, Business Development Manager at Kingston Technology for Hungary and Slovenia. “The good news is that prevention is within reach. The 3-2-1 strategy can be implemented with far less investment than the losses a successful attack would cause.”
3-2-1: Keeping Everything Safe
The 3-2-1 backup strategy revolves around creating three copies of your data: the original and two backups. At least two of these copies should be stored on different types of storage media — for instance, on an internal hard drive and an external SSD. The third copy should be kept in a separate, isolated location that’s physically distant and offline, disconnected from any network.
This method allows for fast data recovery in cases of cyberattacks, hardware failures, accidental deletion, or even natural disasters. To maintain maximum security, it’s also crucial to periodically verify that backup copies are functional and restorable.
Multiple, independent layers of data protection provide a robust defense against ransomware. Attackers often seek out network-connected backups and encrypt them along with live data. If only one backup exists, it too could be compromised. Offline, physically isolated backups are typically beyond the reach of attackers.
For even greater protection, Kingston recommends using specially secured devices like the Kingston IronKey VP80 Encrypted External SSD or the Kingston IronKey VP50 Encrypted USB Drive. These storage solutions keep data safe even if a device falls into the wrong hands. They’re resistant to brute-force attacks, where hackers try thousands of password combinations automatically. In such cases, encrypted drives will lock themselves down, ensuring sensitive information doesn’t get exposed.
A Smart Move for Everyone
Implementing the 3-2-1 backup strategy isn’t just a technical precaution — it’s a rational, business-savvy decision that pays off. Regularly updated, multi-tiered backups dramatically reduce the risk of data loss while enabling fast recovery after unexpected events. The cost of such a solution is negligible compared to the potential fallout of a ransomware incident, which could involve hefty ransom demands, multi-day operational shutdowns, and long-term reputational harm.
Don’t Forget About Passwords
While backups are crucial, data security also hinges on other factors — and passwords rank high on that list. With World Password Day approaching, it’s the perfect time for businesses and individuals alike to reassess their password habits and ensure they’re up to current security standards.
