With each passing year, cybercriminals seem to find new ways to infiltrate and wreak havoc on the technology of both individuals and businesses alike. And for businesses the consequences can be even more devastating, since an attack affects more than just a single individual. So what can they do to help tighten their cybersecurity against these threats?
First, it’s important to know the enemy and the most common methods these criminals use to hack into a company’s systems.
Malware & Viruses: Malware is malicious software that is designed to damage computers, servers or computer networks. By far one of the worst types of malware is ransomware, which takes over a computer and encrypts the data, then locks the user out until they pay a ransom to the hacker. Malware can spread as viruses, which are programs designed to spread from computer to computer and alter the way the computers operate. Viruses can:
- Steal passwords or data
- Spam email contacts
- Take over a computer
- Corrupt or destroy data
- Damage hard drives
- Log keystrokes
Phishing: This cyber-attack combines email and social engineering to trick victims. Phishing emails will come from addresses that seem to be connected to known organizations or individuals, convincing the recipient to click on a link or open an attachment that contains malicious code. Once this code runs, the computer can become infected with malware. Text messages can also carry phishing scams.
Ignored Patch Updates: Hackers are always looking for weak points in software and hardware to exploit. If they find a vulnerability, manufactures will often release a ‘patch’ update to secure the weak point. However, if a business or their IT team ignores the patch, it can leave their technology exposed to cyber-attacks.
So, how can businesses protect themselves?
- Train employees: Employees should be taught how to do things like spot phishing emails and texts, avoid suspicious downloads, protect sensitive information and create strong passwords.
- Secure the networks: Information should be safeguarded by using a firewall, encryption, and secure wi-fi network.
- Require strong passwords: Passwords with 10 characters or more and a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters are the most secure and least likely to be guessed/hacked.
- Use multifactor authentication: Require additional information to access sensitive information, such as a security code being sent to a secure phone.
- Invest in a cybersecurity team: Having a professional team devoted to keeping a company digitally secure is one of the best ways to protect sensitive files and information from hackers.
At Title Junction, we care about helping you stay informed throughout your real estate transaction. The experts at our title company have extensive knowledge about real estate not only in Cape Coral and Fort Myers, but all of Florida as well.
Have questions? Give us a call at 239.415.6574.
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