You will likely have some of your personal or business data online. Your data is at risk of being hacked, and, worryingly, research has found that cybercriminals tend to target smaller businesses, as they simply don’t have the same security defences as larger ones.
Understanding common cybersecurity issues is the key to preventing them, and here, you will be guided through the most common threats your business or personal data may face and be given steps on how to prevent them from happening.
1. Malware and Ransomware
Malware is software that is designed to damage systems, as well as gain access to data or get access to protected systems. Ransomware (which is a type of malware) can also encrypt files and has been linked to sending payment demands for the release. As you can see, this can halt businesses in an instant, which can lead to longer downtime.
To avoid this, you should set up antivirus software, as well as anti-malware software. It is also worth installing a managed detection and response system, which will highlight if your files are being accessed, block the access, and alert you. For more information on managed detection and response software (or MDR), check out the blog on Red Canary.
2. Phishing Attacks
One of the largest cybersecurity threats is phishing scams. Thanks to AI, these emails, text messages, and websites can all appear legitimate but are designed to trick users into revealing sensitive data or passwords. There have even been phishing scams that have aimed to get credit card numbers and have succeeded!
So, you should always seek to keep an eye out for unusual emails, as well as unexpected requests for sensitive information.
3. Weak or Stolen Passwords
The majority of cyber-attacks succeed simply because the company they’re targeting has a weak or reused password. It’s been found that cybercriminals use techniques such as brute force attacks or even credential stuffing to get access to accounts, which is easier if the passwords are simple to guess or are compromised. You should seek to use a password manager that can help to generate secure passwords, as well as install multifactor authentication across all cloud-based software, and to access sensitive data.
4. Unsecured Networks
Less of a worry for businesses, but more of a worry for freelancers, public Wi-Fi networks, such as those available in cafes or airports, are usually unsecured. This means they’re at a higher risk of being exploited by hackers to intercept your data. All freelancers or remote workers who are travelling should not access their sensitive data over public Wi-Fi, unless using a VPN.
5. Insider Threats
As unfortunate as it is, many people in an organisation need to realise that not all threats to their data come from the outside. Insider threats can involve employees or contractors who are intentionally or accidentally seeking to compromise security, which can look like mishandling data or falling victim to a phishing hack.
Luckily, this can be avoided by limiting access to sensitive data based on an individual’s role as well as monitoring user activity. You should also seek to provide regular cybersecurity training, which can reduce insider risks. If needed, you should also update your cybersecurity strategy.
