Cyber Threats on Small Businesses Come from All Angles
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) recently issued several “cyber alerts” that may impact small businesses in Monmouth County and throughout New Jersey. As with all potential threats to data security and privacy, it is essential that businesses stay up to date on emerging risks and regularly update their policies and procedures to reflect them.
Sophisticated Ransomware Attacks
The FBI recently issued an alert for ransomware, a specific type of malware that encrypts or locks valuable digital files and demands a ransom to release them. According to the agency, malware attacks skyrocketed in 2015 and are poised to “grow even more in 2016, if individuals and organizations don’t prepare for these attacks in advance.”
Most ransomware attacks are launched via an email attachment that appears legitimate, like an invoice or an electronic fax, but in reality, it contains the malicious ransomware code. Once the victim opens it, the malware begins encrypting files and folders on local drives, any attached drives, backup drives, and potentially other computers on the same network. The attackers then demand ransom payment in exchange for a decryption key.
Who is being targeted?
As highlighted by the FBI, hackers waging ransomware attacks frequently target entities that rely on computers for critical functions, such as hospitals and law enforcement agencies, because they know how critical computers are to the entities’ day-to-day activities. The cyber attackers use this vulnerability to increase the chances that their victims will pay a ransom to restore access to their data.
The FBI recommends that small businesses implement prevention efforts, including both employee awareness training and technical prevention controls. The agency also emphasizes the importance of creating a solid business continuity plan that can help decrease the damage in the event of a ransomware attack.
New Jersey’s Revised UHAC Regulations: What Residential Developers Need to Know About Affordable Housing Commitments
New Jersey residential developers with affordable housing obligations should carefully review their existing approvals, development agreements, and proposed deed restrictions in light of the State’s revised UHAC regulations (Uniform Housing Affordability Controls). The regulations, which took effect on November 6, 2025, significantly change the administration and physical requirements for affordable housing units. For developers with […]
“No Comment” Culture: Why Silence Is Often the Riskiest Legal Strategy
A “no comment” response is sometimes the right call when a legal problem arises. As a blanket policy, however, it lets allegations go unanswered, deadlines pass, evidence disappear, and manageable disputes grow into expensive litigation. The businesses that fare best are usually the ones that say little publicly while acting decisively behind the scenes. When […]
Utility-Scale Battery Storage Projects: A Legal Roadmap for Developers, Property Owners and Other Stakeholders
Utility-scale battery energy storage systems (BESS) are becoming an increasingly important component of the electric grid throughout New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. As renewable generation expands, electricity demand increases and grid operators seek greater flexibility, battery storage can help balance supply and demand while providing additional capacity and reliability. For developers, battery storage presents […]
Navigating Disputes: Hire a Partnership Dispute Lawyer
A falling out between partners can be disastrous for any business. In many cases, the partnership will not survive. If you are in an unworkable situation with your partners, it may be time to consult a partnership dispute lawyer experienced in handling partnership breakups and dissolutions before the situation deteriorates any further. It is easy […]
Section 363 Sales in Bankruptcy: What Businesses, Lenders, and Buyers Need to Know
When a company enters Chapter 11 bankruptcy, many assume the process will culminate in a lengthy reorganization plan. However, distressed businesses are increasingly being sold through a different mechanism — a sale under Section 363 of the United States Bankruptcy Code. A Section 363 sale allows a company, as a debtor-in-possession in bankruptcy, to sell […]
Zoning Laws Explained: What You Need to Know Before Buying Property
Before buying property, it is critical to determine whether local zoning laws may affect your plans. If you plan to redevelop the property, you will want to confirm that local zoning regulations permit development as intended. If acquiring property that is already developed, you must verify that the use is permitted in the underlying zoning […]
No Aspect of the advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
Sign up to get the latest from our attorneys!
Explore What Matters Most to You.
Consider subscribing to our Firm Insights mailing list by clicking the button below so you can keep up to date with the firm`s latest articles covering various legal topics.
Stay informed and inspired with the latest updates, insights, and events from Scarinci Hollenbeck. Our resource library provides valuable content across a range of categories to keep you connected and ahead of the curve.
Let`s get in touch!
Sign up to get the latest from the Scarinci Hollenbeck, LLC attorneys!
