Only You Can Stop Cybersecurity threats

The entire world was forced to hurriedly go remote, so many companies have inadvertently lowered their guard against cybercrime. Cybercriminals are taking advantage of our current climate, and cyberthreats and attacks are on the rise.

Unless you are a cybersecurity expert or have a trusted advisor, it’s difficult to protect your business, clients and staff from these threats. Effective cybersecurity requires proactive vigilance, best practices and a multilayered approach. Start by understanding the main cyberthreats businesses face today and identify how to protect your company from malicious hackers.

5 Types of Cybersecurity threats

Cybercrime has escalated as companies scramble to outfit and educate employees with secure devices and ironclad policies. Here are the 5 most common types of threats to watch for:

1. Organized crime

Just like other criminals, cybercriminals want money. Organized, well-funded hackers target businesses of all sizes, small and large. Once obtaining a foothold, criminals hold your system or files hostage until paid.

2. Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) Groups

These loosely affiliated groups typically work to benefit the interests of a government. North Korea, Russia, Iran and other countries have APT groups. So, although government agencies are targeted most frequently by APT groups, private businesses are also caught in the crossfire.

3. Insider threats

An employee within your company, either knowingly or unknowingly, may cause a security breach. Sometimes employees are disgruntled or angry, other times it’s a result of unintentional negligence.

4. Hacktivists

Hacktivists pool resources like APTs but are motivated by personal goals and interests. They harass and compromise organizations that disagree with their values.

5. Malcontents

Also known as “lone wolves” or “script kiddies,” these cybercriminals work alone. Often simply for the pleasure of causing chaos or seeing how far they can push the envelope. Their only apparent motive is to wreak havoc on people’s computers.

Cybersecurity is Key in Turbulent Times

Many criminals are taking advantage of our current climate by using COVID-themed credential phishing, malware and spam email campaigns. It only takes one click and the entire company is at risk.

In addition, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns of email campaigns around fraudulent products that “claim to prevent, treat, mitigate, diagnose or cure … COVID-19.” Misinformation on the web abounds, but you can protect your organization with careful planning and a solid cybersecurity policy.

What are Cybersecurity Services?

Arm your organization and shield your business against cyberthreats. For instance, start with a robust cybersecurity awareness training program for every employee, regardless of position. By giving workers the most up-to-date information, they’ll have the knowledge necessary to protect themselves and your company from cyberattacks.

Your firm also needs a strong cybersecurity policy including:

• Zero-Trust framework, assume everything is a threat until proven otherwise
• Limited access to sensitive documents
• Multifactor authentication on all company devices
• Automated services for incoming email security and employee protection
• Regular, secure patching
• Superior log intelligence
• Effective contingency planning

These important security measures will proactively prepare your company for cyberattacks, data breaches or natural disasters. If your business doesn’t have a cybersecurity policy in place, you need one – today.

You don’t have to conquer cybersecurity alone. Reach out today, and let us take IT off your plate.