The COVID-19 pandemic has forced businesses to adapt in interesting ways. While some have adopted remote-working measures to enhance safety and reduce costs such as rent and utilities, others have embraced the online business model by developing websites, apps, and chatbots to increase market reach and productivity.
Not surprisingly, as more companies increase their active digital footprint, cybersecurity attacks also go up. Threats like ransomware, spyware, and Trojan horse malware can affect the security and privacy of a business, its employees, and its customers.
Securing computers and devices is more straightforward for larger organizations that can use vast resources to hire cybersecurity consultants and buy devices and computers for their employees. That may seem unfair because cybersecurity attacks are more likely to stunt or crush smaller businesses. Fortunately, there are some ways for you to enhance security, even on a budget.
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Shield Your Software
Start by enhancing your antivirus software. Whether your company uses Microsoft or Apple devices, it shouldn’t be relying on default operating system antivirus tools. Remember, Macs face malware attacks too. In fact, Mac malware threats are now more frequent than Windows per endpoint. And when it comes to emerging threats, both Windows and macOS fall short.
The solution is to equip every company computer and device with advanced antivirus software that recognizes ransomware, keyloggers, and sophisticated viruses through patterns before they can strike. You can also avoid breaking the bank when you use a technologically advanced free antivirus download for your machines.
Please also upgrade to the latest operating system and download the latest security patches to stop exploits. For example, the Pegasus spyware breaches iPhones by taking advantage of a software vulnerability. Likewise, WannaCry ransomware infects Windows computers by utilizing an SMB vulnerability. Remember, many businesses get hit by obsolete malware attacks because they don’t update their operating systems or use pirated copies that are years old.
Learn to Spot Social Engineering Attacks
Researchers state that many businesses face cybersecurity breaches due to human error. Employees often open emails, texts, or websites that carry malware. Online criminals target employees with social engineering attacks to trick them into making mistakes.
A social engineering attack is when a threat actor uses your emotions against you. They may exploit fear by claiming your computer is under attack, lust by pretending to be an attractive coworker, or greed by claiming to be a vendor. The endgame is always to breach your cybersecurity in some way.
To stop social engineering attacks, educate your employees about spear-phishing techniques and introduce measures to authenticate sensitive emails in the office. In addition, set strict rules for downloading new software on company computers.
Backup Vital Data
Many small businesses don’t recover after a ransomware attack even after paying the fee because they never regain access to all data. A mitigation strategy is to create regular backups and air-gap your backup computers. An air-gapped system doesn’t have access to a network or the Internet and will survive a ransomware attack on your company.
Some small but meaningful measures can significantly improve your cybersecurity and keep you one step ahead of cybercriminals!
Read also: How We Can All Work Together To Combat Cybercrime