Is Your Business Protected from 2017’s Cyber Attacks?

Is Your Business Protected from 2017’s Cyber Attacks?

Throughout the start of 2017 we have already seen a number of businesses succumb to damaging and prevalent cyber attacks. A cyber attack can have a devastating financial impact and severely hinder your business reputation. With many leading security companies predicting these threats will become increasingly sophisticated, it’s vital you take the necessary precautions to protect your organisation.

Here we look at some of the possible threats for the remaining year and how you can increase your cyber-security.

Evolving Credential Theft

Cyber criminals don’t need to use malware to breach an organisation’s security. An attacker can gain access to an entire network, steal confidential data, resources, and valuable systems, all without using malicious software.  This is typically achieved through a phishing email, a form of social engineering, which aims to manipulate an unsuspecting employee into handing over sensitive information by clicking a link or attachment.

This credential theft threat is one that has been developing over the past year or so and is set to evolve throughout 2017. All systems should be regularly monitored and scanned for threats, ensuring all possible points of entry are covered. Educating staff on safe practices can further reduce the risk of infection to your systems.

The Rise of Mobile Malware

Employers are frequently supplying their employees with mobile technology to aid productivity and increase flexibility in the workplace. It is no wonder cyber criminals are targeting these devices to access sensitive information and gain network control.  As mobile malware continues to rise in 2017 it should always be included in your business security audit. Vulnerable devices can be used as spying platforms and be a gateway to many other systems.

Vulnerable Connected Home Devices

Cyber threats also extend beyond our mobile technology to the ‘Internet of Things’, a series of interconnected ‘smart’ devices transferring data over a network. As this industry is very much in its early stages, there is an eagerness for suppliers to fill the market. This often means vulnerabilities are missed during production, which can put consumers at risk of system breaches and loss or leakage of confidential information.

Targeted Ransomware

The term ‘ransomware’ refers to hackers gaining control of your data, encrypting it and demanding payment to hand over the key. Research by Trend Micro suggest that around 65% of UK businesses who find themselves a victim of ransomware will end up paying the ransom. Many cyber criminals are true to their word and give back the stolen information, however 1 in 5 surveyed businesses that did pay, never got their data back.

One of the main problems for these targeted businesses was that they didn’t have sufficient data recovery or offsite backup plans, so their only option was to give in to the hackers and hope they played ball.

So What Can I Do To Protect My Business?

Firstly, you can prevent a good majority of malware attacks by making sure your employees are aware of possible threats. Education aids prevention in this situation, so initiate an effective security policy that aims to educate employees on cyber attacks. Additionally, ensure your virus protection software is regularly updated.

Networks, including IoT’s, which are permanently connected to the Internet via broadband are particularly vulnerable to malicious attacks from hackers and virus infection. A well configured firewall will block uninvited visitors whilst allowing limited access to authorised users and services.

Prevention is Better Than Cure

Modern cyber attacks are complex and constantly changing, so it’s not possible to guarantee complete protection 100% of the time. A comprehensive data recovery plan is an integral part of any IT security system. It’s important that your business is prepared so critical data can be recovered and your organisation can become operational as soon as possible.

At Surrey IT we can provide you with a full range of IT services including complete network support, server upgrades and installations. For Surrey data recovery solutions contact our friendly team today on 020 8393 2633 or email enquiries@surreyit.com.