Cybercrime’s threat to businesses has increased significantly within the past two years. Attacks are more sophisticated and devious than ever before, and companies need to respond to protect their assets. The first step to getting protection in place is to understand the potential threat from cybercrime. But as criminals become more prolific, businesses need to expect the unexpected and prepare their employees to do the same.
Types of Cybersecurity Threats
There are several types of cybersecurity threats that can significantly compromise small business security. These include:
- Malware: Malicious software such as a worm or virus disrupts an IT system.
- Phishing: An authentic-looking email or phone call prompts someone to click a link to enter data. Hackers use this to steal money or take over a site.
- Ransomware: A type of malware that once given access, vital parts of a system are blocked until a ransom is paid.
- Spyware: Hackers transfer information from a system covertly.
- Zero-Day Exploit: When a vulnerability alert has been announced, hackers take the opportunity to attack before a patch is implemented.
How Prevent Cybersecurity Attacks
There are several ways to reduce the risk of a cyberattack on your company. Some of the most effective ways a business can better defend their data include the following:
Train Your Staff
One of the best ways of reducing the risk of cybercrime in your company is to make sure all staff receive training in understanding cybersecurity threats. Staff also need to be aware of correct password management, the importance of regularly updating their devices, and the various risks of using business computer equipment for personal use.
One example is the London hospital cyberattack. The breach was caused by a staff member clicking on a phishing email which shut down several departments. Staff are sometimes the only line of defense between a hacker and a safe service, making it critical that they learn more about small business cybersecurity threats.
Get Regular Updates
Your IT system should have regular security patches and updates performed. Hackers look for opportunities to infiltrate outdated IT systems, using malware or spyware to inflict damage. If you have personal data from clients and a cybercriminal accesses it, you can face charges, financial damage, and a blow to your company’s reputation.
Use Email Security Technology
Installing software that protects email communication helps avoid phishing. It blocks potentially malicious emails, identifies spam, and filters can be applied to block unwanted mailing. In addition, security technology in emails helps protect your business against attacks.
Web Scanning at a Secure Gateway
Software that scans websites for risk and potentially malicious content reduces the risk of malware getting into your system. You can use it to block sites and set up alerts to warn staff they need to take care when accessing the site. Web scanning also helps prevent malware from coming from an infected area into your system.
Expect the Unexpected
Although you can use a lot of software to protect your computer systems, you and your team need to be alert to unexpected incidents with cybercrime. Criminals look for opportune moments to catch people out and often link their activities to similar events such as taxation deadlines.
Expecting the unexpected is a critical defense in protecting against cybercriminals and understanding cybersecurity threats. Schedule a free consultation with Fusion Technology to begin a protection plan for your business.