Cyber threats are incredibly hard to prepare for on your own. There are a lot of tools and strategies available, yes, but for the layman? The average business owner will not know how to adequately protect his business at all. That is why outsourcing your IT needs to an around-the-clock facility is an absolute must, and the second step every business should take. Knowing the common cyber security threats? That’s number one.
DDoS Attacks
DDoS stands for distributed denial-of-service. They are one of the most significant threats to businesses in 2020. They work by overwhelming your network resources so that your systems cannot process real, genuine requests (such as a customer going to your website to buy a product) from the DDoS attack. DDoS attacks are also not complicated to do. For example, all that a hacker (or a newbie learning code) needs to do is open an action and not close it. This one line of code will open your website ad infinitum until it crashes.
DDoS attacks do vary in complexity, however, and their main threat comes from the fact that they are often used as a smokescreen for more serious threats.
Not Updating Software
This should not be one of the most prime security threats in 2020, but it is. Work to always update all software that you use and don’t use in order to ensure you have the latest security features. Old software can be a gateway into your systems and may contain bugs that can be exploited.
Security Gaps
Just as old software can have bugs that can be exploited, your entire business might have gaps that hackers can slip through. The best way to avoid these security gaps is to bring in a 24/7 managed IT service that works to help you on all fronts with unrivalled service and benefits.
Phishing Scam
Phishing emails are as old as the internet, but the ones that make it through email security are more sophisticated than ever. Think of emails that look, sound, and feel just like your bank. The only difference? The email isn’t actually registered with your bank, and is instead linked to a hacker.
Ransomware
Ransomware is one of the most frustrating and horrible attacks that can happen to your business. Hackers here don’t just steal your information, they threaten to delete it entirely. If you don’t pay their demands they will completely erase your business. Even if you do pay them they might just demand more. It is an incredibly difficult situation for any business to be in.
Threat Through the IoT
The Internet of Things (IoT) means huge possibilities, but these little devices also feature lax security measures, meaning that they can act as a back door into your system if you aren’t careful. Always use supported devices that work with your existing security system, and either remove or find a better alternative if the device is a risk.
The best way to protect your business is to first be aware of the threats it faces. Hiring an IT company to manage your security needs and training your staff on common threats and how to avoid them can help further protect your business and the invaluable data that keeps it working.
