Modern businesses rely on computers and the internet to perform their daily operations. An example is the use of emails, which is essential for client and internal communications.
Companies also collect data from their customers and use that to perform their services. An online shop needs to process personal information and credit card payments. Hospitals use computers to store patient records so doctors can reference them later. The point is that your organization has data and crucial files that could be valuable to someone else.
Cybersecurity Threats
There is a massive effort by criminals to try and infiltrate company networks. From there, they can steal information and disrupt operations. A common way they do this is through ransomware attacks.
Ransomware is a malicious program that “kidnaps” files and data in an infected computer. Cybercriminals demand the owner to pay or do some other action. If not done in the given timeframe, they delete the data.
Imagine losing years’ worth of files. That can have a significant effect on any organization. Not to mention that customer data could fall into the wrong hands, and you now have a lawsuit in your hands.
How Criminals Infiltrate Networks
Infiltrating networks and computers is not like in movies where a hacker types some code from far away and instantly gains access. They need to create a connection. They implement malware and viruses for that.
Viruses can get into a network in a variety of ways. Criminals could send malicious emails with dirty links. Once clicked, it downloads the malware onto the victim’s computer. Browsing unsafe websites is also a good way to get viruses.
More sophisticated methods involve a social engineering approach. Criminals would study potential targets within the company and contact them through email or phone to get them to perform an action they want.
Protection Against Cybersecurity Threats
Businesses need to have multiple layers of protection against cyberattacks. Cybercriminals are resilient, and so should your defenses.
Here are some ways to do that:
- Install a security program for your network.
- Use strong passwords everywhere.
- Secure data storage through encryption.
- Protect company devices like laptops and mobile phones.
- Keep your devices updated.
Most attacks rely on people letting their guards down. Keep employees up to speed on what to do regarding potential threats and suspicious activities through continuous training.
You can also consult with security experts to establish comprehensive network security that is ever-evolving to combat the latest cyber threats out there.
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