Ransomware Removal 101: What to Do Immediately After an Attack

Ransomware hits hard and fast. One minute your files are fine, the next they’re locked behind a paywall you didn’t ask for. It doesn’t matter if you’re running a small nonprofit or a large organization—once you’ve been targeted, it feels like your hands are tied. The panic kicks in, your systems slow down, and you’re stuck wondering what’s next.

Key Takeaways

• Don’t panic—disconnect from the network and freeze activity
• Never pay the ransom without considering long-term risks
• Backups are your best defense when used the right way
• Call your IT team or provider as soon as possible
• Concourse gives you tools and support to act fast and recover

What Is Ransomware and Why Is It Spreading?

Ransomware is a form of malware that blocks you from accessing your own files or systems. Most of the time, you won’t even realize your machine is infected until it’s too late. All it takes is one wrong click on an email or link. Suddenly, your screen freezes, and you see a note demanding payment in exchange for access to your data.

Attacks like these don’t just hurt operations—they can wipe out critical records or expose you to public scrutiny. And it's not slowing down. Ransomware is on the rise because it's easy money for attackers. They’re using more advanced methods now, tricking users with targeted emails and fake login screens.

That’s why ransomware on the rise is a real concern, especially for organizations that rely on cloud tools or complex systems.

The FBI advises against paying, and they’re right—paying doesn’t guarantee anything. You might never get your data back, and you could even make yourself a future target.

Step 1: Disconnect, Freeze, and Don’t Touch Anything

When you spot the first signs—unusual pop-ups, encrypted files, locked screens—act fast. Cut off the infected device from the network. That means unplugging the ethernet cable or turning off Wi-Fi. Don’t open more apps or try to download anything new.

Why? Because ransomware can spread to mapped drives or other networked computers. The faster you contain it, the less damage it can do.

At this stage, don’t try DIY fixes. Just isolate the damage. Then call your IT team or vendor. If you're working with a provider like Concourse, they’ll walk you through the next steps and start damage control right away.

Related: Demystifying SOC 2 vs PCI Compliance for Hosting Providers

Step 2: Figure Out What Got Hit—and How Bad It Is

Now’s the time to get a clear picture of what’s going on. Start with these questions:

• What devices were affected?
• Are shared drives or backups compromised?
• Is personal data or client info exposed?

You might be able to trace how the ransomware got in. In many cases, it’s a phishing email or an outdated app with weak security settings. Understanding the path helps prevent a repeat.

If your organization uses Blackbaud tools, this is especially important. That platform has had issues before, including a data breach that caught many users off guard. Knowing your system’s weak spots is key.

Step 3: Don’t Pay the Ransom

This one’s tempting. When your data’s locked and your team is frozen, paying might feel like the only option. But that can backfire—big time.

Most attackers don’t follow through after payment. And even if they do, you’re left wondering what else they copied or kept. Not to mention, you’re putting a target on your back for the next attack.

The FBI and most security experts strongly recommend reporting the incident to IC3.gov and moving forward without paying. It’s not easy, but it’s safer in the long run.

Step 4: Restore from Backups (If You Can)

This is where backups save the day—if they were set up right. Ideally, your data is backed up daily, stored separately from your network, and tested regularly. If that’s the case, you can skip the ransom drama and start restoring.

But here’s the catch: if your backups are connected to the infected system or weren’t tested, they might be compromised too. This is where a provider like Concourse comes in handy. Their team can help you untangle your setup and guide you on what’s safe to restore. As us about our immutable backups using Rubrik.

Many IT teams don’t realize how fragile their backups are until it’s too late. That’s why you should always secure them separately and treat them like gold.

Step 5: Clean the System Before You Reconnect

Don’t reconnect anything until you're sure the malware is gone. That means scanning every device with updated security tools. You may need to do a full wipe of the infected machines, depending on how deep the attack went.

There are plenty of walkthroughs on removing an infection, but it’s better to have experts do it. Mistakes here can cause repeat infections or spread the issue further.

Once everything’s cleaned up, reset your credentials—especially admin and service accounts. If you’re unsure which steps to take, Concourse can audit your setup and recommend a better baseline for security going forward.

Step 6: Check Compliance and Notify the Right People

Depending on what got exposed, you may need to notify your clients, partners, or even regulators. If sensitive data like healthcare or donor info was involved, the law might require it.

Start by logging the attack: date, time, impact, who discovered it, and what was done in response. Your legal and compliance team (or provider) will need that info for reports.

If you're using Blackbaud CRM, now might be the time to rethink your setup. Many nonprofits and schools are re-evaluating after realizing the hidden costs of a Blackbaud CRM migration. A secure and private cloud setup can cut those risks down.

Step 7: Harden Your Defenses

Once the immediate chaos is over, it’s time to build things back better. That means updating systems, training your team, and locking down access.

• Review who has admin rights
• Set up multi-factor authentication
• Patch every outdated app
• Get regular phishing training for your staff

No one likes extra steps, but those little things stop attacks before they start. Ransomware doesn’t usually rely on brute force. It relies on habits—clicks, outdated tools, weak passwords. Break the pattern, and you lower the risk.

This is also a good time to consider moving to a private cloud setup. Local servers and public cloud platforms don’t always give you the control or isolation you need. With Concourse, you get custom configurations and locked-down access—without extra headaches.

Related: Blackbaud CRM Private Hosting Services

Why Fast Action Matters

The first few hours after an attack can make or break your recovery. Let’s say your nonprofit gets hit with ransomware on a Monday morning. Your donor database is locked, emails won’t send, and your team can’t access reports. If you’ve got a clear plan—backups, IT support, and a response checklist—you’re up and running again by lunch.

But if you don’t? You might lose a week or more. That means missed grants, unhappy partners, and stress you didn’t need. It’s not about fear—it’s about being ready. And working with a provider like Concourse makes that much easier.

Don’t Wait Until It Happens—Make a Plan Now

If you’ve been through an attack, you already know how messy it gets. If you haven’t yet, that’s your window to prepare. Either way, Concourse gives you options. With Blackbaud CRM Private Hosting, you’ll get a safer setup that’s built to withstand threats like ransomware.

It’s your data. Don’t let someone else hold it hostage. Learn more here.

Final Thoughts

Ransomware is scary. But the more prepared you are, the less power it has over you. Take simple steps now—review your backups, patch your systems, and get expert support if you don’t have it already. Don’t just react when it’s too late.

Work with people who’ve seen it all before. Concourse helps organizations recover, rebuild, and prevent the same problems from happening again. If you're still relying on outdated systems and luck, it might be time for a change.

Backups, private hosting, and fast support. That’s how you stay safe and sound.