The cost of cybercrime is truly immense. The drain on the global economy was an estimated $6 trillion last year. Many business owners think that attacks are inevitable. The truth is that a few simple steps can prevent attacks before they happen. Here are seven easy ways that you can stop cyberattacks.
- Prioritize Cloud Security
Cloud computing has revolutionized the business world. The options of distributed computing and data storage have enabled an array of new business tools. Networking systems like the IPC Edge and voice controller technologies are a few examples. These innovations come with security challenges. Cloud providers typically have formidable security. Even so, the measures used by these companies vary in quality and specifics. Research providers carefully before putting your data in their hands.
- Hire Ethical Hackers
Not all hackers are out to attack your systems. Ethical hackers use their unique skill sets to safeguard the internet by penetrating computer systems under controlled circumstances. By doing so, these professionals can uncover flaws and loopholes in security software that the original programmers would never have considered. Thinking about cybersecurity the way criminals do puts you ahead of the curve. Think of it as fighting fire with fire.
- Have a Zero Trust Outlook
Zero-trust security architecture is fast becoming the industry standard. Zero trust security means assuming the worst of any new user on your network. It’s vital to ask for verified credentials from anyone accessing your systems. One good idea is to insist on multi factor authentication. One-time passwords, PINs, and security tokens can all be used in concert to ensure that visitors are who they claim to be. Limiting access to a minimum necessary to accomplish a given task is equally vital. Assuming bad intentions feels like paranoia, but think of it as putting your company first.
- Employ Endpoint Security Measures
Having a network-centric approach to computer security is vital. Networks used to be relatively simple. Nowadays, work is done from a slew of devices. Making sure that all of these devices have the same level of protection is paramount. Endpoint security is all about standardization. Every device on your network should have the same quality of antivirus software installed on it. Every employee must abide by the same protocols when using the internet. Getting everyone on the same page is the only way to keep everyone safe.
- Train Employees to Recognize Threats
Security company Tessian found that 43% of employees have made mistakes on the job that compromised security. Human error is rarely the result of malice. Usually, the oversights are simple. Distraction and fatigue are the most common causes. Falling for phishing scams is also common. These scams happen when criminals pose as legitimate companies, then convince people to hand over sensitive personal information. Train your workforce to recognize the warning signs of an incoming attack. Collective awareness is always the best defense.
- Create Better Passwords
One common error made by just about everyone is having a weak password protocol. People often choose passwords that are short and simple to remember. Unfortunately, this makes the process of cracking them easy. Passwords should be over 12 characters in length and mix letters with random numbers and symbols. Most importantly, resist the urge to make your password something personal. If a hacker knows anything about you, they could leverage it to get all of your information.
- Have Strong Physical Security
Physical security is an often-neglected facet of cybersecurity. Every trash can is a treasure trove of personal and fiscal information. The best hackers routinely go “dumpster diving” for old receipts, invoices, and hastily discarded passwords. Shred everything before you throw it away. Train security cameras on entry and exit points, as well as on waste disposal areas. Make sure that all keyholders are people you completely trust.
When it comes to preventing cybercrime, knowledge is power. Awareness of the threats is as important as the tools you use to stop them. Keep these strategies in mind when formulating your online safety plan.