Cyber security is a crucial part of running a business. A hacked website can cause serious damage to your business and reputation and result in financial loss and costs to rectify. In this blog, I will discuss what to look out for and some of the best cyber security measures you can take to avoid getting hacked.
What is cyber security?
According to Kaspersky.com “Cyber security is the practice of defending computers, servers, mobile devices, electronic systems, networks, and data from malicious attacks.” It may include the development and implementation of policies and procedures to protect computer systems and data from unauthorised access; identification of threats and vulnerabilities; implementation of appropriate countermeasures; and periodic review and revision of those policies and procedures. Cybersecurity also encompasses the training of employees responsible for protecting computer systems.
Why is it important?
The prevalence of hacking means that even the most secure systems can be breached, exposing personal information and compromising the security of data. Hackers typically aim to gain access to confidential information for financial gain or to cause disruption or havoc. By understanding how hackers operate and what vulnerabilities they exploit, businesses can protect themselves from potential cyberattacks.
What are the different types of cyber attacks?
Cyber attack is an umbrella term that refers to a broad range of activities that can compromise the security or integrity of computer systems. Cyber attacks can involve unauthorised access, manipulation, or destruction of data. There are many different types of cyber attacks, but all share some common elements.
One common element is the use of computers and networks to carry out the attack. Cyber attackers may use a computer infected with malware (software designed to disrupt or damage systems) or a hacked system to launch an attack against another system. Cyber attackers may also use malicious software (malware) planted on unsuspecting victims’ computers as part of a spear phishing campaign (a type of cyberattack in which criminals trick people into opening malicious emails).
Other common elements include using sophisticated techniques and weapons to carry out the attack and exploiting vulnerabilities in computer systems. Cyber attackers may target specific types of systems, such as financial institutions or government agencies. They may also use known vulnerabilities in software programs and websites to access user accounts and steal sensitive information.
How can I prevent my business from being hacked?
Businesses of all sizes are susceptible to cyber-attacks, and the cost of a data breach can be high.
Preventing a data breach begins with understanding your company’s vulnerabilities and implementing best practices for cyber-security. Additionally, business owners should have an incident response plan in place in case of a breach. This plan should include steps such as notifying authorities, notifying employees, restoring impacted data, and cleaning up any damage done. Finally, business owners must be vigilant about monitoring their systems for signs of intrusion and taking action when necessary.
What are the best cyber security measures?
Establish strong passwords. Make sure that your passwords are at least 8 characters long, include at least one number and one symbol, and are not easily guessable. Use a password manager to keep track of all your passwords and make it difficult for others to access your accounts.
Install anti-virus software. Make sure that you have current anti-virus software installed on all of your devices, including your computer and mobile devices. Anti-virus software can help detect malicious files before they can damage your computer or steal sensitive information.
Keep up with regular updates: Make sure that you are regularly updating all of your software programs, including anti-virus software, so that you remain protected from new threats. Keep an eye out for warning signs that something may be wrong with your computer or network, such as unexplained slowdowns or errors.
Communicate with all employees if you identify a phishing scam or malware.
If you are hacked communicate with all staff and others immediately. Implement measures to contain and rectify the situation, which might include training.
And finally…
In business never assume you are too small to be of interest to a hacker. Scammers use hacking to threaten, blackmail and steal and its a large and growing criminal industry. According to government figures in the UK “…in the last 12 months, 39% of UK businesses identified a cyber attack” (Cyber security breaches survey 2022).
Globally, the picture isn’t any brighter. According to Check Point Research (CPR) “….from mid-2020 throughout 2021, there has been an upwards trend in the number of cyber-attacks. This trend reached an all-time high at the end of the year, peaking to 925 cyber attacks a week per organization, globally.”
While, as a smaller business, you might not be experiencing the 925 attacks per week yet, any attack can cause damage and might prove costly to rectify. With cyber attacks on the increase, a well considered cyber security strategy tailored to your business may well prove invaluable to your success.