Modern technology has brought us many wonderful innovations. With new invention comes new vulnerablities. 43% of cyberattacks target small businesses. The best way to control your business’s vulnerabiltiy is with education.
Here is a list of the most common cyberthreats and how to best protect your business from them.
1. Phishing
Phishing is the term used when an attacker poses as an employee from a legitimate organization, with the intent to gain sensitive information from your business. These attempts most often come through email, but can also be via phone call, text message, or even in-person visits.
Having a multifaceted defense to stop, identify, and quickly recover from these types of attacks is essential. Spam and email filtering can help catch emails with suspicious content. Web filters can block malicious websites. Always make sure your systems and software have the latest updates and security patches.
Even with the best firewalls, spam filters, and security on your systems – your first line of defense against all phishing attacks is to educate your employees. Educate them about how to spot and report all attacks they may run into.
2. Malware
Malware is a broad type of cyberthreat. It includes any type of software or program designed to damage or disable computers and networks.
The most common types of malware are:
- Viruses: software or code that copies itself onto computers
- Trojans: malicious software disguised as a legitimate tool
- Spyware: software that secretly monitors activity on a computer or network
- Ransomware: software that hijacks a system and holds information for ransom
Learn More: 8 types of malware and how to recognize them
The best line of defense against malware is anti-virus and anti-malware programs that scan your system to proactively identify and quarantine cyberthreats. With 6,000 new computer viruses being developed every day, it’s important to make sure these programs are kept up-to-date to keep your network safe.
3. Data breaches
While some types of cyberattacks simply seek to cause damage, other cyberthreats target your data. Whether the goal is to steal data and ransom it for money or to sell the data on the dark web, the end result can be catastrophic to your business. 72% of businesses that experience a severe data breach shut down within 24 months.
The key to not becoming a statistic is to back up your data and have a data recovery plan. You don’t have to do it on your own. Consider working with a managed IT services provider experienced in network security.
4. Human error
Employees can be the greatest asset and the largest vulnerability when it comes to protecting your infrastructure.
The key to keeping employees as assets is to maintain strong security policies and procedures. Frequent and updated training will make sure security issues stay in the forefront of your employees’ minds. Training on password best-practices, identifying spam and phishing attempts, and smart internet browsing practices will equip your employees with the skills necessary for a smarter and safer work environment.
Final Note
If you’re not sure whether your business has the right security measures in place, consider a risk and network assessment to pinpoint weak areas in your network before they become a problem. Don’t leave the future of your business up to chance. Contact your managed IT services provider today to make sure your business is protected.
Information Technology Aligned With Your Business Goals?
RedRock is a complete IT services & IT support company working with organizations in Michigan.
RedRock offers a full range of compliance-focused IT services including help desk, server and network management, perimeter and endpoint security, and associated hardware and software. What makes us unique is how we bake security into everything we do. We are regulated by the FDIC, NCUA, and DIFS. We undergo regular exams and audits by 3rd party assessors. This oversight offers our customers the peace of mind that multiple entities look at our products, policies, procedures, financials, etc.
