Cyber security has become a significant concern for businesses and individuals. So much so that a diploma in cyber security has become easier to get nowadays than in the past. According to a Cybersecurity Ventures report, cybercrime will cost the world $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, up from $3 trillion in 2015.
Threats to cyber security can affect both large and small businesses. That’s why it’s no surprise that there are plenty of project management courses online now that anyone can take reduce the risk of your local business with Cybersecurity Fresno. A common misconception for small businesses is an idea of security through obscurity that your business is too small to be a target, but unfortunately, this is not the case. Small businesses are just as susceptible to cybercrime as any other business. In fact, small businesses are often at a disadvantage regarding resources and expertise to deal with cyberattacks. A recent report revealed that businesses with less than 500 employees lose on average $2.5 million per attack.
Let’s take a look at the following top 5 cybersecurity threats and steps you can take to prevent them.
Top 5 Biggest Cyber Security Threats and Prevention Methods
1. Identity theft
Identity theft is one of the most serious cyber security risks. There are many ways in which identity theft can take place. It is possible for someone to steal your personal information, like your name, address, and credit card numbers, and use it to commit fraud or steal your identity.
To reduce the risk of identity theft, always keep your personal information safe and do not keep a lot of credit card information with you. Many banks and credit card companies offer free credit monitoring services.
2. Malware Attacks
Malware is a type of cyber-attack that can infect your computer with viruses or Trojan horses. These malicious programs can damage your computer system or steal your personal information. Malware usually comes from malicious website downloads, spam emails, or from connecting to other infected machines or devices.
To prevent malware from infecting your computer and keep your computer virus-free, you have to install the latest security software. It’s essential to keep your computer password secure and never give it away to anyone.
3. Ransomware
Ransomware is one of the most common cyber-attacks, hitting thousands of businesses annually. Most cyber-attacks are now carried out by ransomware, which is only expected to grow in the future. The impact of a ransomware attack can be catastrophic for a business, with many victims losing all of their data, some even going into bankruptcy. With so much at stake, learning how to defend yourself against a ransomware attack is essential. Reports have shown that 71% of ransomware attacks target small businesses, with an average ransom demand of $116,000.
To prevent these attacks, businesses need to have strong Endpoint Protection in place across all business devices. These will help to stop ransomware attacks from being able to encrypt data effectively.
4. Phishing
Phishing is a type of social engineering and deserves to be mentioned in its own right. These attacks and related techniques are designed to get people to give up their confidential information.
If you want to prevent these types of threats, you need to train your employees to carefully evaluate any link, attachment, or download they receive. Any information system in an organization can be in danger from a seemingly harmless email.
5. Social Engineering
Social engineering is when someone tries to get access to your information. Social engineering can be high-tech or no tech. Human psychology can be used to gain access to data, systems, and even physical buildings.
One of the best ways to protect yourself from social engineering is to be aware of the warning signs that someone may be trying to steal your personal information. So, Be careful when opening links and attachments sent via email. While they may look legitimate at first glance, they could contain viruses or other malicious software that can harm your computer. Before opening any attachments or clicking on any links, ensure that you have the latest version of antivirus software installed on your device.
Conclusion
There is a range of threats facing businesses at the moment. The best way for businesses to protect against these threats is to have a comprehensive set of security tools in place and to utilize Security Awareness Training to ensure that users are aware of security threats and how to prevent them.
Post courtesy: George Passidakis, Director of Sales and Marketing at Apex Technology Management.
