Cyber crime is a nefarious yet lucrative career path for criminals who aren’t afraid to exploit their tech skills to access companies’ valuable data. Cyber threats are constantly evolving, which creates a difficult cycle for small and midsize businesses with limited IT resources: modify your security to avoid falling prey to these threats, and criminals will come up with a new approach you must address.
With cyber crime on the rise, now’s the time to evaluate your current data security and consider the changes you may need to make. Here are some of the most common threats you’ll need to consider.
Ransomware
Ransomware is often cited as the most common type of cyber attack. Its name refers to the way attackers hold data for “ransom.” They use malicious software to block access to the target’s files, often through encryption. Then the attacker demands payment to release the data back to its rightful owner. Unfortunately, the victim has no guarantee that the attacker will actually return the data, even if they do pay the ransom.
Targeting Remote Workers
As it becomes increasingly common for employees to work from home, cyber attackers are coming up with new ways to target these workers. The very applications that allow employees to work from anywhere – an incredible convenience – can be a company’s downfall if they are accessed by a cyber criminal. These accounts are easily accessed by anyone who has obtained the password through phishing or by stealing a mobile device.
Cloud Computing Vulnerabilities
Many companies use cloud servers to store their data. These servers are maintained for a fee, giving customers the impression that they don’t have to worry about data security. Hiring another company to store and protect your data may be a less expensive and more convenient option, but even these servers may fall victim to a cyber attack. Even worse, any employee of the third-party company who has been granted access to these cloud servers may be able to find a way to access your company’s data.
Social Engineering Attacks
Social engineering attacks are those that are perpetrated through direct conversation between an employee and a cyber criminal. One of the most common types of social engineering attacks is phishing, where a criminal uses email to request confidential information like passwords and answers to security questions. Utah IT security services providers aim to prevent these attacks from being successful by conducting security training for employees and enacting strict email security practices.
Dodging Potential Cyber Threats
After all this talk of effective and devastating cyber threats, you may be wondering if there’s anything your company can do to avoid falling victim to these attacks. Managed network security services in Utah aim to minimize a successful cyber attack by utilizing a many-pronged approach to security. Firewalls, advanced encryption, mobile device management, and security training can all be used to increase awareness of and protect against potential threats.
If you feel your Utah network security could be improved and would like to speak with a Utah cyber security consulting firm, contact INTELITECHS. We offer managed IT services for small and midsize companies who want to experience the benefits of having a dedicated IT team without the headache and expense of maintaining an in-house department. Give us a call to learn more about our Utah cyber security services.
