[updated 6/28/2017 1:29pm ET] We will be updating this page with additional information. Please check back for the latest.

While initial reports have only centered on the Ukraine being hit by a new stream of ransomware known as Petya, this is a global attack. Just like WannaCry, this might be leveraging EternalBlue, which attacks SMB file-sharing services, locking organizations out of their networks and demanding a fee to decrypt files. Bitcoin payments are currently already at $2,000+ already. But it’s essential that victims understand that payment may not actually allow them to access their data, and may just fund hackers to commit further crimes.

The exact measures organizations can implement to mitigate risk depends on the kind of system being protected but there are fundamental actions such as backing up data in the Cloud and on an external hard drive, updating system and patch vulnerabilities, and ensuring everyone is watching where their click. While collaboration across organizations and individuals is also a highly effective method of prevention and mitigation. Sharing experience or research on various types of ransomware helps to dilute their effectiveness.

Petya-Based Ransomware Attack