There is a common notion that large businesses face more cyber security issues than small ones. However, the truth is that small businesses face the same threats like the large businesses. It is even worse in small businesses since most don’t have the resources to curb the threats or recover when something happens. In short, no business is too small to be the next target. Even though most large companies have invested in resources to mitigate cyber security risks, most small businesses still lag and remain the most affected. Knowing the threats is the beginning first step to protecting your business from cybercriminals. Therefore, this article has compiled two common threats in small businesses and how to prevent them.
Malware and Ransomware
Malware and Ransomware are major cyber security threats in businesses of all sizes. Ransomware is part of malware but requires an individual entry. In malware, attackers use viruses and Trojan to gain access to your network, steal your data or destroy it. Your devices or data can get infected with malware through downloading malicious files from the internet, spam emails, or connecting your device with other infected machines. You lose data, or someone with evil intentions steals it for different reasons. The reason why Ransomware is different from other kinds of malware is that it leads to file encryption. Most cybercriminals use Ransomware to get money in exchange for a decryption code. They threaten to destroy or expose the data if you do not pay the ransom.
You can prevent malware and Ransomware attacks by ensuring you have the proper defense. You need to hire managed IT services to ensure you have experts who can keep your devices and data from such attacks. They will manage the devices and provide all the systems are updated. Another good way is to ensure you have a backup in the cloud so that you don’t lose your data in case of malware. The benefit is that in case of a Ransomware attack, the IT experts can quickly recover the data without paying a ransom.
Phishing
Phishing is one of many businesses’ most dangerous cyber security threats. According to studies, phishing occurs in more than 90% of cyber-attack cases, causing companies to lose millions. Phishing happens when the attacker pretends to be friendly and trustworthy and then persuades a user to download a file or click a link. These links and files are usually infected, giving sensitive data access. Attackers are becoming more sophisticated and knowledgeable on how to entice users. The results are generally highly damaging such that you may never recover.
The best way to avoid phishing is to secure your emails so that you can block phishing emails. You can also use various solutions available to defend from and report phishing. Another good way of preventing phishing attacks is educating your employees on how to spot and report phishing. Remember, this is more of a human aspect than a technological one. Therefore, employees should know the process of handling sensitive information like passwords.
Summary
There are other cyber security threats that businesses face. However, these two are the main ones, with businesses suffering massive losses from them. Therefore, ensure you are safe by taking the correct defense measures and involving IT experts to help keep out cyber criminals.
Infographic created by CIO Technology Solutions, Tampa’s Leading Managed IT Company