Small enterprises face a higher vulnerability to cyber-attacks due to potentially weaker security measures compared to larger corporations. This makes them an attractive target for cybercriminals who can inflict significant damage on these businesses. With this in mind, cybersecurity for small businesses should be taken seriously.
Common Cyber Threats
What are some different kinds of Cyber threats prevalent these days?
- Malware: also known as malicious software, encompasses various types such as viruses, spyware, trojans, and ransomware. The primary objective of cybercriminals deploying malware is to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information like passwords, Personally Identifiable Information (PII), or Payment Card Industry (PCI) data like bank and credit card details. They may also lock files on the infected device and demand a ransom. In some cases, the computer itself can be hijacked and transformed into a bot, which can then be incorporated into a larger cybercriminal network.
- Phishing: also known as spam messages is utilised by the cybercriminals that want to deceive the organisation using email, text messages, phone calls, and social media. They frequently pretend to be someone from a trusted organization and primarily aim to gain access and take control of the small businesses’ social media accounts and demand a ransom.
- Email Attacks: also known as Business Email Compromise (BEC), involve criminals pretending to be business representatives. They achieve this by gaining access to compromised email accounts or by creating domain names that closely resemble legitimate businesses. The primary objective of these attacks is not only to steal information but also to deceive victims into transferring funds to the scammers’ bank accounts. Typically, these email scams include a hyperlink that redirects individuals to a fraudulent website, where they are prompted to either log in or disclose sensitive information.
There are many simple measures recommended by ACSC (Australian Cyber Security Centre) that we at Andro Media follow to improve the security of our client’s websites as well as our business’s physical and digital infrastructure.
Cybersecurity for small businesses at Andro Media
One may think a single resolution would be sufficient but following more than one measure also known as ‘Defense in Depth’ is the best way to keep yourself secure. Below mentioned are some of the ways Andro Media keeps things in check.
- Use a password manager and avoid using the same passwords for multiple websites. Strengthening the security of the websites by using strong passwords and implementing multi-factor authentication.
- Ensuring that the operating system, software, and apps used are automatically updated so that the cybercriminals can’t take advantage of the vulnerabilities present in the software.
- Educating our staff and clients on how to recognize suspicious links and attachments. If one receives a suspicious email, verifying its legitimacy is paramount. This is done by contacting the source through trusted contact details, rather than those provided in the suspicious message, especially if the message urges immediate action.
- Avoid downloading software from websites other than the official source.
- Avoid visiting websites with suspicious-looking domains.
- Use security software to conduct regular scans on devices and websites.
- Regularly back up our data and protect it by encrypting or using a strong password, and also understand the value it brings to the client and to Andro Media.
- Keeping our devices locked and physically secure.
- Staying informed about new and evolving cyber threats.
Sources:
https://www.commbank.com.au/
https://www.cyber.gov.au/