Cybersecurity has never been more important. With cyber-attacks becoming more sophisticated every day, companies need to be aware of the dangers and take steps to protect themselves. But which are the most common cyber threats nowadays? And what companies can do to improve their cybersecurity?
Main cyber threats you should be aware of
If you are in charge of a company’s cybersecurity or you run one, you should know what the main dangers are. The most frequent cyber threats companies face today include:
Malware
Malware is a type of software designed to damage or disable computers and network. It can be spread through infected websites, email attachments, downloads, and even physical media such as USB drives. It can be installed on a computer without the user’s knowledge, and once it’s there, it can do a lot of damage: steal data, delete files, gain access to critical system functions and take control of the computer.
Ransomware
Ransomware is a type of malware that locks users out of their computers or encrypts their files and then demands a ransom payment to unlock them. There are many different types of ransomware, but the most common ones are CryptoLocker, Locky, and TeslaCrypt.
Ransomware can also steal personal information, which can be used to commit identity theft or other cyber crimes.
Malicious code attacks
A malicious code attack is a cyber threat in which cyber criminals use malicious code to deploy ransomware, cause harm, steal data or gain access to systems and networks. This type of attack involves code that can be used to exploit software vulnerabilities, bypass security controls and invade users’ computers.
DDoS Attacks
A DDoS attack (Distributed Denial Of Service) is a type of cyber-attack in which hackers use multiple compromised devices, usually infected with malware, to target a single system or network. The purpose is to overload the targeted system or network with traffic so that it can’t function properly. These attacks can be used to take down websites or steal data and can cause serious damage, not only to the system or network but also to the businesses and individuals that rely on it.
Phishing
Phishing is a type of cyber-attack where the attackers try to obtain sensitive data such as passwords, credit card details or other personal information by masquerading as a trustworthy entity in an electronic communication. For example, they might send an email that looks like it’s from a bank, asking the user to click on a link or provide login details. They can also use social engineering, which is the process of manipulating people into performing certain actions or divulging confidential information.
Phishing is dangerous because it can result in the theft of valuable personal data. It can also be used to install malware on computers or to gain access to company networks.
Data breaches
A data breach is when cybercriminals gain access to a company’s systems and steal sensitive data, such as customer information, financial records, or trade secrets. Data breaches can have devastating consequences for companies, from damaged reputations to legal action and hefty fines.
Critical infrastructure attacks
Critical infrastructure attacks are cyber-attacks that target organizations responsible for providing essential services such as healthcare, transportation, energy, water supplies, and financial systems. These attacks could cause serious disruption to a company’s operations and can have far-reaching consequences for the company, its customers, and also public safety and security.
IoT devises cyber threats
Attacks on IoT devices are cyber-attacks that target connected devices such as security systems and internet-connected machinery. These attacks can expose sensitive data or cause damage to the device. If the cybercriminals manage to take control of the devices, the damage can extend to workers, customers, and public safety.
How to prevent cyber threats
It is not just cybercriminals who are responsible for cyber threats. Indeed, poorly secured networks and devices, weak passwords, unencrypted data transmissions and out-of-date software can all make cyber criminals’ jobs easier.
Fortunately, companies can prevent all these cyber threats by investing in cybersecurity.
Here are some suggestions that companies of all types can easily implement:
- Ensure your IT staff are trained in cyber security best practices and are kept up to date with the latest cyber threats.
- Implement strong passwords and two-factor authentication to protect your data. This also applies to employees and contractors.
- Educate and train employees on cyber security best practices.
- Choose a software to monitor your systems for suspicious activity, such as unusual login attempts or unauthorized access attempts.
- Regularly patch and update software and hardware to ensure they are up to date with the latest cyber threats.
- Back up your data regularly and store it securely in the cloud.
- Restrict access to sensitive data and make sure only authorized personnel have access to it.
- Use firewalls, antivirus software and VPN to protect your systems.
- Set up a recovery plan with procedures to follow in case of an attack.
In conclusion, cybersecurity (especially, data security and information security) must be part of an organization’s overall strategy. A cyber security plan should include policies, processes, and technologies to protect information from cyber threats.
By investing in cyber security, companies can protect their employees, customers, and valuable data from cyber threats, ensure the continuity of services even in the event of an attack, and stay competitive in today’s digital world.
