Bricking is a type of cyber attack in which a device is rendered completely unusable, effectively turning it into a “brick.” While it is less common than threats such as ransomware or phishing, bricking can cause serious disruption to businesses, leading to downtime, productivity loss, and financial impact for both the company and its clients. Read this guide to learn more about bricking, including how to prevent it and why cyber insurance coverage is so critical for your organisation.
What is bricking in cyber security?
In cyber security, bricking refers to an attack in which a cybercriminal renders a computer or other electronic device completely useless, effectively turning it into a useless brick.
A bricking attack occurs when a cybercriminal gains access to a device’s operating system or firmware and makes changes that stop it from functioning. This can affect computers, servers, routers, point-of-sale systems, and other electronic devices.
Examples of bricking
Malware that modifies firmware on POS systems, routers, or other essential devices.
Another example is a ransomware attack, where the attacker encrypts a company’s data and threatens to brick the system if a ransom is not paid.
In some cases, bricking attacks are carried out by people with physical access to a device, such as by maliciously altering the BIOS settings or destroying hardware components.
Is bricking reversible?
Yes, in some cases, the effects of a bricking attack can be reversed, provided the device’s firmware or operating system can be reinstalled or reset to its original state. However, in extreme cases, the damage to the device is permanent.
What businesses are vulnerable to bricking?
Any business that relies on electronic devices or technology is potentially at risk, from small firms using POS systems to large organisations with complex computer networks. This makes a proactive approach to cyber security essential. Part of that approach is having the right cyber insurance coverage to mitigate the potential damage a bricking attack could cause.
How can you protect your business from a cyber attack like bricking?
You can take positive steps to protect your company from bricking cyber attacks by:
- Implement strong security measures, such as firewalls and antivirus software
- Regularly update software and firmware, and train your employees on safe computing practices
- Take out comprehensive cyber insurance coverage that includes protection against bricking
Don’t assume “it won’t happen to me.” Taking action now can help keep your systems secure and your business protected from this emerging cyber threat.
Why is coverage for bricking important in cyber insurance?
Coverage for bricking is important in cyber insurance because it can help protect your business from the potential financial losses associated with this type of cyber attack.
Coverage for bricking is an important part of cyber insurance, as it helps protect your business from the financial impact of this type of attack.
Bricked or disabled hardware can lead to significant downtime, lost productivity, and reduced income. Repairing or replacing affected devices can also be costly.
A comprehensive cyber insurance policy can help cover these expenses, giving business owners and their clients valuable peace of mind. Not all policies include bricking coverage, so it’s important to review your policy carefully. At Stanmore Insurance, our team can help ensure your coverage meets your business’s specific needs.
How will your business be protected with cyber insurance in place?
The right policy covers the costs of restoring or replacing damaged devices and compensates you for any lost income and other expenses resulting from the attack.
That can include:
- The costs of hiring experts to recover any lost data and restore your systems.
- Covering any legal fees or regulatory fines incurred by the attack.
Cyber insurance can also give you access to breach response teams and PR firms to help manage the fallout from a successful bricking attack.
Overall, having cyber insurance in place gives you and your clients peace of mind, knowing that your business is fully protected in the event of a malicious cyber attack.
Cyber coverage with Stanmore Insurance
Fortunately, a comprehensive cyber insurance policy covers your business for cyber attacks, including bricking. Call our team today for expert, no-obligation advice on the best policy to keep your business protected.