In this article, let’s take a look at the biggest cybersecurity threats 2019. Yet, keep in mind that these threats are more active than ever.
Furthermore, these threats constantly change and evolve. Hackers continuously improve their methods and tools to get through the latest security features. Hence, your organization must stay well-informed and up to date at all times.
Bear in mind that there is no one-size-fits-all cybersecurity strategy. Hence, you must have a comprehensive security strategy is a must. Moreover, such a strategy must contain multiple layers of protection and detection.
As we have mentioned earlier, the first step in cybersecurity is to be well-informed. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and look back at the biggest cybersecurity threats 2019. Please take note that these threats are more active than ever.
Ransomware
It doesn’t matter if your business is small or big. As long as you have data, you are a target for hackers. The number of ransomware attacks is on the rise. First, cybercriminals build and deploy malware to your systems. Such malware will lock your business’ network. Additionally, the malware could encrypt your data to the point you can’t access it.
Afterward, the ransomware will display a message demanding payment from the business to restore access or decrypt the files. Indeed, it works according to its name. Hackers usually request Bitcoins as the method of payment. That is because Bitcoins are untraceable.
Yet, take note that paying the ransom is not a guarantee that you’ll actually have your data systems back. There are various steps you can take to avoid getting victimized by ransomware.
- Educate your employees. The members of the organization are the weakest link in cybersecurity. Hence, it is critical that you educate employees on how to spot and avoid phishing attempts. Typically, ransomware starts with suspicious emails.
- Have remote data backups. Having a cloud-data-based backup will allow you to restore the data and use the corrupted data storage drives again by reformatting them. However, you must involve the IT professionals in this step. They will ensure that the ransomware is completely removed before restoring.
- Use virus/malware scanning for email attachments. This automated system scans emails and their attachments before they are opened. Such software ensures that you won’t get lured easily by phishing.
Unpatched Vulnerabilities/Poor Updating
Have a habit of ignoring the update reminder? Such simple negligence could spell disaster for your company. Patches fix security bugs. Hackers use those bugs to infiltrate your system. Hence, it is crucial that you apply security patches in a timely manner.
Thus, you must create a comprehensive patching schedule. Afterward, strictly follow it. Moreover, patch any outdated software as soon as patches become available. Furthermore, you must actively check updates at least every 2-3 weeks.
It is recommended that you ditch any software that is no longer supported by the developer. Unsupported software means even the known vulnerabilities will not be addressed.
These are just two of the many cybersecurity threats 2019. Indeed, everyone, not just the IT team, plays a part in avoiding such threats.
