With the world’s reliance on technology, it’s more important than ever for your business to safeguard against cyber criminals. Luckily, we’ve gathered expert strategies from increased network security to email protection that will shield your business from potential threats.
Common Types of Cyber Threats
If you’re not aware of the common types of cyber threats, it’s more difficult to protect against them. Here are some of the most prevalent attacks:
- Malware: This is a general term used to describe any type of malicious software, including viruses, worms, trojans, and ransomware. These programs infiltrate and damage computer systems.
- Phishing: This is when hackers attempt to deceive individuals into giving out sensitive information by impersonating a trustworthy entity through email, texts, or calls.
- Ransomware: A type of malware that encrypts a user’s files and demands payment in exchange for the decryption key.
- Social Engineering: This is the use of psychological manipulation to trick people into divulging confidential information or performing actions that compromise their security, including pretexting, baiting, and quid pro quo.
How to Protect Your Business from Cyberattacks
It’s impossible to completely eliminate the risk of cyberattacks, but there are steps you can take to significantly reduce your chances of being a target.
Strengthen Your Password Security
One of the most basic and important steps you can take to safeguard against hackers is to ensure all employees have strong, unique passwords. Here are some password best practices to follow:
- Use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Avoid using any personal information or obvious words/phrases.
- Change passwords at least every 90 days.
- Never reuse a password.
- Use a password manager to store passwords securely.
- Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) for added security.
Keep Software Up-to-Date
Hackers often exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software to gain access to systems. Make sure all software and applications are regularly updated with the latest security patches and bug fixes.
Implement Robust Antivirus and Anti-Malware Solutions
Antivirus and anti-malware software can help detect and eliminate malicious programs before they have a chance to cause damage. Ensure these solutions are regularly updated and running on all devices within your network.
Secure Your Network Security and Infrastructure
It’s crucial to have a strong network security infrastructure in place. This can include:
- Firewalls
- Encryption protocols
- Access controls
- Regular network security assessments
Educate Your Employees and Users
One of the biggest threats to your business’s cybersecurity is human error. Educate all users on safe internet practices, how to identify phishing attempts, and what to do in case of a cyberattack.
Backup Your Data Regularly
In the event of a successful cyberattack, having regularly backed-up data can mitigate the damage and prevent the loss of important information. Regularly back up all critical data and keep backups in a secure, off-site location.
Implement Whitelisting and Blacklisting
Whitelisting only allows approved applications and programs to run on your systems while blacklisting blocks known malicious programs. Utilizing both methods will significantly reduce the risk to your systems.
Utilize Monitoring and Incident Response
Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) and Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS) are key in monitoring networks for suspicious activities and quickly tackling security threats. Also, adding Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) solutions can assist with detection and response, enhancing network security against vulnerabilities.
Collaborate With Cybersecurity Professionals
If your business doesn’t have the resources or expertise to handle cybersecurity on its own, consider partnering with a reputable managed IT services provider specializing in cybersecurity. These professionals can offer expert guidance and support.
Has Your Business Been Hacked? What To Do Next
Despite your best efforts, there’s still a chance that your business could fall victim to a cyberattack. In the event of a successful hacking attempt, here are the crucial steps to take:
- Immediately disconnect all infected devices from the network.
- Notify all employees and users of the attack and any potential risks.
- Change all passwords for affected accounts immediately.
- Contact your IT department or a cybersecurity professional for assistance in resolving the issue.
- Conduct a thorough investigation to determine how the attack occurred and take steps to prevent it from happening again in the future.
Boost Your Network Security with Unity IT
At Unity IT, we proactively prevent online threats from harming your business. Our team of experts provides managed IT services and advanced network security solutions to safeguard your company from the most advanced cyberattacks. Contact us today to learn more!