As a business owner, you are well aware of the many dangers that can threaten your company. From fires and floods to robberies and lawsuits, there are many things that can go wrong. Unfortunately, in today’s digital age, there are even more threats that you need to keep abreast of.
Here are the five most dangerous cybersecurity threats to businesses:
Phishing
This is a type of scam in which cybercriminals send out fake emails or texts that look like they’re from a legitimate source, such as your bank or the government. Phishing scams try to get you to click on a link or download an attachment that will install malware on your device, or they may try to trick you into divulging sensitive information, such as your passwords or Social Security number.
Ransomware
This is a type of malware that can encrypt your files and render them inaccessible. Cybercriminals mainly use ransomware to extort money from businesses, but they may also threaten to release sensitive data if their demands are not met. This type of attack can be devastating, as it can disrupt your operations and cause you to lose important data.
Fake Wi-Fi networks
Public Wi-Fi networks are as dangerous as they are convenient. That’s because it’s relatively easy for cybercriminals to set up fake Wi-Fi networks that look like the real thing. When you connect to one of these networks, the hackers can intercept the data you’re sending and receiving, which can include sensitive information like login credentials and credit card numbers. They can then use this stolen data to commit fraud, steal your identity, or perform other types of cybercrime.
Drive-by downloads
These are malicious files downloaded onto your device without your knowledge or consent. You can get drive-by downloads if you visit a malware-infected website or if you click on a malicious ad. Once the file is downloaded, it can install malware on your device or give the cybercriminals access to your data.
Insider threats
While most cyberthreats come from outside your company, there are also threats that come from within. These are sometimes in the form of disgruntled employees who want to get back at your company, or malicious insiders who are part of a cybercriminal organization. Insider threats could also simply be staff members who write down their login credentials on a piece of paper or those who fall for phishing scams. Regardless of the source, this type of threats can be just as damaging as external ones.
How do you deal with the most common cyberthreats?
The threats listed above may seem daunting, but there are steps you can take to effectively shore up your defenses against them and other cyber risks. For instance, you can invest in employee training to help prevent phishing attacks. You can also implement security measures, such as multifactor authentication, to make it more difficult for hackers to gain access to your systems. Or, you can work with a reputable managed IT services provider that will assess your risks and help you put in place the appropriate security solutions for your business.
By taking the proper precautions, you can help protect your business from various online threats that exist. However, it's important to remember that the cybersecurity landscape is constantly changing, so you need to stay up to date on the latest threats and how to defend against them.
Don't know where to start? Kortek Solutions can help. Reach out to us today and one of our experts will be happy to discuss your specific security needs and recommend the best course of action for your business.