6 Modern Security Threats To Know
The pandemic shifted the working world as we know it. Whether you moved your teams home during the pandemic and never moved them back into the office, or you’re considering shifting to a remote or hybrid remote work environment, it’s important to know a few of the most common security threats. Here are a few of the biggest modern security threats to know about today.
Phishing Emails
Your employee receives an email from whom they assume is you and clicks it to schedule a meeting, only to find out they were phished. Phishing emails continue to be one of the biggest cybersecurity threats. These emails are getting more intelligent, using names or email addresses already in the person’s contacts. They may also use large organizations or retailers to encourage others that they’re harmless and trustworthy.
Some phishing attacks may install unauthorized programs on employee computers. Other phishing attempts may request confidential information, like work email logins, credit card numbers, or contact information. Phishing emails can also lead to ransomware attacks, which request compensation in return for returning access to data.
Insecure Remote Devices
With employees working at home, it can be difficult to monitor their devices. Even if the organization has security protocols, ensuring all team members follow them can be difficult. This can lead to unsecured devices, including laptops, desktops, smartphones, or tablets.
Careful consideration of cloud services can be helpful when managing remote devices. Choosing a cloud-based provider that offers frequent backups is also helpful. Working with third-party cloud providers also gives organizations dedicated consultation and service that can help maintain security standards. GSI connects businesses to NetSuite, one of the most mature cloud software programs available.
Insecure Passwords
Strong passwords are one of the best ways to protect confidential data and networks. Employees may be tempted to use the same passwords across all programs so they can easily remember them. Workplaces can help improve password security by requiring certain numbers or symbols and prompting employees to change their passwords frequently. Some companies may even use automatic password generators, which issue a new password every 30-60 minutes.
Denial of Service Attacks
A denial of service attack (DoS) is a cyber security attack in which a hacker makes the network temporarily or permanently unavailable to the user. The security hack floods the network, which then prevents it from responding to requests. DoS attacks are one of the most common today, leading to permanent data loss.
Organizations can prevent DoS attacks by using a variety of hardware or software security solutions. IP blocking may also prevent DoS attacks from reaching their intended target. Rate limiting is a strategy that involves limiting the frequency of traffic to a specific destination, which can prevent a DoS attack from overwhelming the system. A dedicated security technology team can help implement these prevention strategies.
Ransomware
Ransomware is malicious software that blocks a user’s access to their system. In this case, the hacker typically requests a large sum of money from the organization in order to unlock or release their data. Since many organizations have a no-threat policy, it may lead to a complete loss of data.
One of the best ways to prevent Ransomware is to back up data frequently. While backing up data doesn’t stop a Ransomware attack from occurring, it does help companies access lost data. Companies may also want to put specific plans and policies in place to prevent and deal with Ransomware before it happens.
Social Engineering
Social engineering is an attack of deception or manipulation that encourages users to give up confidential information that is then used for a malicious purpose. Companies need to put strict, clear policies in place regarding social media. Organizations can also frequently update software or firmware to maintain security patches and updates.
The threat of social engineering is a good reason for companies to issue approved devices to all remote workers. When employees bring their own equipment to work, they’re more likely to be the target of social engineering hacks. This can lead to a loss of sensitive data or financial information for companies of all sizes.
Cyber threats have increased by as much as 600% since the pandemic. Not only are people working more from home, but they’re also working while on the road accessing unsecured networks from hotels, restaurants, or public Wi-Fi. Hackers are responding to the significant increase in user data over the internet. Additionally, people are communicating, attending school, and even dating over the internet, giving hackers even more room to adjust and implement more intelligent cyber threats.
With a solid foundation in technology, backed by a BIT degree, Lucas Noah has carved a niche for himself in the world of content creation and digital storytelling. Currently lending his expertise to Creative Outrank LLC and Oceana Express LLC, Lucas has become a... Read more