Cyber security is as essential for startups and small companies as for large enterprises. The ever-changing landscape of online threats to personal privacy and organizational security makes implementing cybersecurity platforms imperative for businesses. Find out what cyber security means in 2022 and get a clearer sense of the real-world risks that virtual exploits can pose, along with up-to-date tips to defend against cyber attacks.
What Is Cyber Security?
Cyber security is a body of technologies and processes governed by best practices for protecting data, devices, programs, and networks from attacks and unauthorized access. Enterprises that collect, process, or store sensitive information have a responsibility to take reasonable measures to protect this data against exploitation.
Privacy and security issues enter into almost every aspect of networked technology, from applications to devices, databases, and network infrastructure. In 2022, this includes data encryption in cloud-based configurations while at rest, in motion, and use. Mobile devices and personal computer security are also crucial for remote workers who need to connect to company systems securely.
Cyber security entails different back- and front-end approaches. Service providers often need to take measures to protect against advanced persistent threats and denial of service attacks. End-users can be vulnerable to phishing, malware, social engineering, spamming, spoofing, and spyware. Ransomware and man-in-the-middle attacks have the potential to affect both parties. Specific cyber security measures are necessary to defend business systems and network infrastructure, and end-user devices, but these measures can join forces to make networks more secure.
Dangers Of Online Threats
The consequences of cyber attacks, hacks, or exploits vary based on the targets. According to IBM, the average large-scale data breach during 2020 in the U.S. cost $8.64 million. While smaller organizations may not face this scale of financial consequences, cybersecurity strategies suited for the size and complexity of each enterprise are still essential.
Many dangers are associated with online threats. Some recent high-profile attacks have involved ransomware that locks down websites or services until a ransom is paid to the perpetrators. An advanced persistent threat involving system infiltration that goes undetected for an extended time enables hackers to spy on activity, steal data and evade detection. The SolarWinds supply chain attacks from 2019 through 2020 are a widely recognized APT.
Other attacks compromise or undermine web-based services. The Mirai Botnet discovered in 2016 exploited a wide range of Internet of Things devices to launch distributed denial of service attacks against the internet service provider Dyn, resulting in significant website outages. More secure virtual supply chains are only possible when cyber security measures are taken on every level.
What To Watch Out For Online
End-users and company representatives responsible for enforcing employee technology use policies should know what to watch out for online in 2022. Some of the most common threats are still messages and emails that contain links to suspicious pages. With proper training, most users can be taught to assess the validity of senders and avoid apparent traps.
Some of the most effective cyber security tricks include assigning employees unique user logins with challenging passwords to secure work accounts. It is also good to set critical systems to update as soon as possible while still maintaining system stability and minimizing downtime. Browser extensions can also provide security functions when browsing the internet, using web-based apps, or composing messages with attachments.
In addition to getting the most recent bug fixes and patches, it is also advisable to install and run antivirus software on every connected device for which protection is available. AV software and a firewall can protect a business from many threats online.
How To Prevent Cyber Attacks
Cyber attacks pose an ongoing threat to every enterprise. Stakeholders should implement and encourage employees to utilize all available preventative measures, such as two-factor or 2FA cyber security. Multi-factor authentication renders hacking attempts 99% less effective. Users should also exercise caution when sharing personal information or data online.
One of the best ways for end-users to avoid attacks is to be wary of clicking or tapping links in suspicious emails or messages. Malicious links can lead to phishing attacks that compromise devices used to connect to business systems. Cybersecurity measures are most effective when all stakeholders are trained and can notify internal technical support or contact external authenticating agents to confirm the trustworthiness of communications.
Implementing some or all of these cybersecurity tips can make most users and enterprises less susceptible to attacks intended to intercept personal or business data. While some risk is always present, taking measures to create networks and remote access more secure and training employees on clear technology use policies can go a long way towards making the IT that powers any business is more secure.