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Wiper Malware: How to Protect Your Backups from Total Data Destruction

Ransomware encrypts data, but wiper malware goes one step further: it deletes it completely – including backup data. This means companies risk not only their production systems but also their data protection. In this article, we explain how wiper malware works, the dangers it poses, and how you can protect your backups.

What is Wiper Malware?

Wiper malware is an especially dangerous form of malicious software designed to completely and irreversibly delete data. It is often used in connection with geopolitically motivated attacks and can spread unnoticed throughout the entire network.

Particularly critical:
Even backup systems can be affected – and with them the very last line of defense.

Risks for Companies from Wiper Malware

An attack with wiper malware can have severe consequences for companies. In the worst case, it can lead to a complete shutdown of production systems, paralyzing business operations. Particularly critical is the potential loss of backup data, which can render even emergency plans ineffective.

The consequences are not only technical but also economically significant: high costs can arise for recovery or even a complete rebuild of the IT infrastructure. In addition, there is often a long-term loss of reputation and trust – both with customers and partners.

Schutzmassnahmen gegen Wiper-Malware

Immutable Backups

Use backups that cannot be altered or deleted after creation.

ImmutableVEEAM@MOUNT10

Air Gap Solutions

Physically or logically disconnect backups from the network.

With MOUNT10, your data is not only secured locally but also stored offsite at the highly secure SWISS FORT KNOX. Our offsite backups provide geographic redundancy and protect against physical risks such as fire or flooding, as well as cyberattacks.

3-2-1-1-0-Backup Strategy

With the 3-2-1-1-0 Backup Rule, you cannot prevent an attack, but compromised systems can be back online within minutes – and with up-to-date data.

3 – Keep at least 3 copies of your data

2 – Store backups on 2 different media types

1 – Keep at least one backup copy offsite

1 – Maintain at least one offline backup copy

0 – Ensure that your backups are error-free

Regular Recovery Tests

Ensure that your backups are available when needed.

Backup Checklist

Wiper malware can affect any organization. With MOUNT10, your backups are protected, reliably available, and resistant to targeted data destruction – ensuring maximum data security in Switzerland.