The FCC’s Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau has issued a Public Notice urging communications providers to implement cybersecurity best practices in order to protect their networks and systems against malware and ransomware. The Bureau cited reports that ransomware attacks against communications providers have increased four-fold since 2021. Such attacks are not limited to major carriers but are also impacting regional and rural operators.
The Bureau lists out various cybersecurity best practices to mitigate ransomware attacks including developing a cybersecurity risk management plan, regularly updating and patching software, enabling MFA, and conducting employee training in cybersecurity awareness. The Bureau’s guidance also referenced steps providers can take when faced with a ransomware incident and reporting requirements to federal agencies.
