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CISA Practice Question: Experiences a ransomware attack that encrypts…
An organization experiences a ransomware attack that encrypts critical files. Which of the following is the BEST recovery strategy to minimize data loss?
⚠ Common exam trap
Many exam-takers choose Option D (system restore points) because they seem convenient and built-in, but they fail to realize that ransomware specifically targets and deletes these snapshots, making them unreliable for recovery.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Restore from offline backups taken before the attack
Restoring from offline backups taken before the attack ensures that the recovered data is clean and free from encryption, as the ransomware cannot modify backups that are not connected to the network. This strategy minimizes data loss by reverting to the most recent known-good state without relying on potentially compromised or incomplete system restore points.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Disconnect the network and rebuild systems from scratch
Why it's wrong here
Rebuilding from scratch discards recoverable data and extends downtime, so it cannot minimise data loss. It is tempting as total eradication, yet the scenario demands restoring encrypted files. The correct strategy restores from offline, immutable backups, which preserves data and avoids paying attackers or trusting compromised systems.
- ✗
Pay the ransom to decrypt files
Why it's wrong here
Paying does not guarantee decryption, funds criminal activity and often yields corrupted keys, so it cannot minimise data loss. It is tempting when no tested backups exist and downtime is severe. The correct strategy restores from offline, immutable backups, which recovers data without trusting the attacker's tooling.
- ✓
Restore from offline backups taken before the attack
Why this is correct
Offline backups taken before the attack remain unencrypted and unreachable by ransomware, satisfying the requirement to minimise data loss. Unlike replicas or online backups, which may also be encrypted or corrupted, offline media preserves a clean recovery point, enabling restoration of critical files without paying the ransom.
- ✗
Use system restore points on the same network
Why it's wrong here
Restore points typically reside on the same network and are often encrypted or deleted by modern ransomware, so they cannot reliably minimise data loss. They are tempting because they are quick and built into Windows. The correct strategy uses offline, immutable backups isolated from the production network.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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