Running a business in the age of technology is extremely challenging. Modern business owners have to find ways to both collect and secure consumer information. This usually requires the use of things like cloud-based servers, software, and data management systems. The more technology your business has in place, the higher the risk becomes of data breaches occurring.
This is why you need to work on staying one step ahead of cyber-criminals. Allowing IT security professionals, like Emagined Security, to audit your network and perform a penetration test is a must. The information from these tests will help you figure out how to alter your network for maximum security.
Learning about common cyber-security threats is also important. The more you know about how hackers infiltrate information networks, the easier it will be to protect your sensitive information. Here are some common cyber-security threats and what you can do to mitigate the risks associated with them.
Phishing Attacks Are Very Common
Nearly 64% of the businesses in the United States have been the victim of a cyber-attack. Hackers use a variety of methods to gain access to sensitive information on a business network. One of the most common methods used to get sensitive information or confidential login credentials is known as phishing. This method involves hackers attempting to trick an employee into giving up this sensitive information with the help of emails or even fake websites.
Typically, hackers will send out emails from addresses that seem legitimate. These emails usually have attachments that contain viruses. If your employees download these attachments, the hackers will be able to wreak havoc. Educating team members on the importance of not downloading email attachments from unknown sources is imperative. Investing in a virus scan program is also a great way to vet attachments before they are downloaded.
Protect Your Network From Malware
Did you realize over 350,000 new malware files are created daily? When malware is downloaded to a network, it allows hackers to get their hands on tons of sensitive information. There are numerous types of malware, but among the most commonly used are:
· Worms- These programs are known for their ability to self-replicate and spread. Generally, worm malware will search for contacts in the database and send messages to these addresses with corrupt files in them. If the recipients download the files, the worm will continue to spread and cause damage.
· Ransomware- Ransomware is a malware program that encrypts that data on a network it infiltrates. The hackers who release the malware on the network will then demand a ransom from the business owner to release it. In most cases, the information will not be released even if the ransom is paid.
· Trojans- A trojan is basically a piece of malware that appears to be a legitimate program. If these seemingly legitimate programs are downloaded on a network, hackers will have access to files and sensitive information.
If you want to mitigate the risks caused by malware, then investing in a cloud-based backup and virus scan software is a must. With a backup in place, you can wipe your network clean and re-install the information once the virus is gone.
Your Own Employees Can Steal Data
Another risk you need to be aware of when trying to avoid data theft is your own employees. Unfortunately, many data breaches each year are caused by employees selling this information on the black market. The best way to avoid this problem is by limiting your employees’ access to sensitive information on your network. Assigning access to this information on a need to know basis is crucial when keeping data away from hackers.
Start Securing Your Network Today!
Properly securing the sensitive information on your network will require some hard work and professional help. The time and money invested in IT security will be worth it in the long run.
