KEEPING THREATS AT BAY: WHAT ARE 5 OF THE MOST PREVALENT CYBER THREATS TO YOUR ORGANIZATION AND HOW TO COMBAT THEM?

If your business uses computers, the internet, digital networks and virtual systems, you’re at risk of cyber threats. ‘Cyber threats’ is a broad term that describes everything from system viruses and malware to hackers stealing your data or bringing down your systems.

Of course, as a business, it’s vital that you’re proactive when it comes to preventing and combatting the risk of these threats from damaging your business, infrastructure, and the reputation you hold with your customers and clients.

To help you protect your business from the dangers of the technological age, here are five cyber threats you need to be aware of, and how to minimize the chance of them becoming a problem.

Cloud Services

If your business is using a cloud-based service to store information and data, this information is always at risk. Of course, it’s important to choose a renowned cloud provider who will protect your information on their end, but you’ll also want to make sure you’re protecting the connection between your systems and the provider.

This means installing anti-virus software on your computer and using an SSL 256-bit encryption service to secure your internet connections.

People

The biggest and most common threat to your business is the people working in your business itself. No matter whether your staff are using their computers, online services, or any other devices, they need to be aware of what they are doing and how to remain secure.

This means making sure they’re not clicking on risky links, accessing dangerous websites or leaving themselves logged into systems while they’re not using them. To combat this problem, you need to train your staff with proper security preferences using trusted IT training services.

Password Integrity

Another common vulnerability that compromises the integrity of your cybersecurity is the passwords that people are using. Whether it’s your customers, you or your staff, choosing weak passwords makes it easy for hackers to get into your system.

Always use strong passwords to protect everything, using as many characters as possible and a selection of numbers, symbols, and cases to make it difficult for individuals and password-cracking software to breach.

Device Awareness

While you may be focusing all your attention on the computers and connections your business is using, don’t forget about other devices that might have access to your network. If you employees access your data using their phones, personal computers or tablets, this is another point of entry.

To combat this problem, either restrict users from only accessing your network on certified and authorized devices, or ensure they meet your pre-determined security requirements and have ample protection installed.

Social Media

Social media is part of our everyday lives, and it’s a core element to any modern-day business. However, the frequency in which we use social media means it has also become a common place for threats to amass.

While hackers may not be able to access your systems directly, hacking into your social media profiles can cause serious damage to your reputation as a business, and can deem you unsafe and not secure in the eyes of your customers. Consider all the points above to minimize the risk of this being a problem.

Summary

When it comes to your business, nothing is more important than keeping yourself safe from cybersecurity threats. Prevention is easy when you’re aware and proactive, whereas leaving it too late can cause irreversible damage.