The success of your business depends on the accuracy of your data. Hackers can easily steal your data and put you out of business if you don’t have adequate security measures.
Your company may be at risk from cybercriminals. Hackers can take control of your computer system and thus prevent you from working with clients.
Any organization can be hacked. Small and medium-sized businesses, on the other hand, are particularly vulnerable.
Why?
When launching a new business, many owners overlook the importance of cybersecurity. They may even go with the first IT service provider they come across. In addition, they have no idea how to protect themselves from cyber-attacks, making them easy prey.
As a result, the loss of confidential information is a common cause of bankruptcy for these businesses. You can’t take a chance on it.
As a preventative measure, this article will explain the various types of hackers and how to guard against them.
5 TYPES OF HACKERS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT
Here’s a quick list of potential hackers based on what they’re looking for:
#1. HACKERS IN SEARCH OF PERSONAL INFORMATION
Many hackers are eager to obtain your clients’ and employees’ personal information. It contains birth dates, financial information, and social security numbers.
Because cybercriminals can use social security numbers for various purposes, they may be the most valuable asset they want to obtain. They can, for example, commit tax fraud, open credit accounts, and commit other serious identity theft.
Furthermore, financial data can be used for fraudulent activities and purchases, especially if robust digital security systems are not in place.
#2. HACKERS WANTING TO GET INTO THE DIGITAL INFRASTRUCTURE
Storage and data servers are costly, and hackers are well aware of this.
Hackers may seek to save money by storing their applications and data on your infrastructure rather than their own. The better your infrastructure, the more likely it will be targeted by cybercriminals; this can strain your network and negatively impact your business.
Unsurprisingly, tech companies are among the most frequent targets of this type of hacking.
The following are common indicators that a hacker has gained access to your digital infrastructure:
- Running out of storage space faster than usual
- Your network is experiencing slowdowns.
- Unknown devices may be present on your network.
#3. HACKERS IN SEARCH OF CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION
Few business aspects are as crucial as intellectual property (IP). Your products and services allow you to stand out from the crowd and connect with your target audience.
If hackers steal the design of your upcoming product before you launch it or file your patent, you will have a significant problem. If a competitor obtains the information, they will be able to enter the market first and undercut your sales.
#4. HACKERS IN SEARCH OF ACCOUNT DATA
Yes, you and your IT service provider may have done enough to prevent hackers from obtaining financial information. But are your employees’ accounts safe?
If hackers compromise them, they may allow them to run scams and obtain information that will disrupt your operations.
For instance, losing CEO login credentials can be disastrous. It gives hackers access to sensitive information, allowing them to impersonate the CEO. They can collect data from employees or clients and shut down your business in exchange.
This data breach can cause widespread confusion, tarnishing your reputation.
#5. HACKERS SEEKING NETWORK CONTROL
In some cases, hackers aren’t after data at all. Instead, they wish to seize control of the entire network. And to accomplish this, they launch ransomware attacks.
They can use these activities to lock you out of the system and make data inaccessible until you pay a ransom. They spread these threats via spam, phishing emails, and online advertisements.
The average ransom amount is around $30,000, but a business incurs frequent and often significant losses due to interruptions.
BUSINESS PROTECTION: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW.
Here are five ways to keep your company safe from hackers now that you know how they operate.
WAY #1. MAKE AN INVESTMENT IN SECURITY RESOURCES
Most business owners overlook cybersecurity despite the amount of money and time they spend on the business. Make sure you have enough money to put in place strong defenses. If you need assistance, consider working with a reputable IT company.
As a result, your online accounts, computers, and networks will be more secure.
WAY #2. TRAIN YOUR TEAM
Most security systems are vulnerable. And their employees tend to be the most important ones as well.
Managers in human resources and CEOs should prioritize ensuring their employees follow best security practices both at work and at home. Using a work phone or laptop can be a vulnerability and an entry point for hackers, so they must all know it.
Once a year, one month of security education and training can help your employees become familiar with the best security practices. For example, to ward off cybercriminals, you can discuss various aspects of your business and the steps required.
It is crucial to provide employees with the proper training if you want to foster a strong security culture,
WAY #3. ADD AUTHENTICATION
When it comes to protecting your computer from intruders, you have many options. Two-factor authentication (or 2FA) is a simple and effective weapon against scammers.
Each user must authenticate their identity before they can access your system. Using it on all of your company’s accounts could help prevent cybercrime.
In addition, encourage your employees to activate 2FA on their accounts. Their devices and personal information will be less vulnerable, making them less targeted for cyberattacks.
WAY #4. TAKING ADVANTAGE OF SOFTWARE
Hackers frequently use computer viruses as a weapon. Antivirus software is a great way to keep them at bay.
Updating your built-in antivirus program is highly recommended. As an additional option, you may want to look into purchasing an antivirus software package from one of the many well-known brands in the industry.
Every machine with network and other resource access should have this software installed. As a final precaution, the user should run an antivirus scan on their computer every week to prevent it from becoming infected by malware.
WAY #5. SCHEDULE REGULAR SECURITY CHECKS
To ensure the best possible security, you must regularly check your computer’s systems. Solid antivirus software is convenient, but don’t forget to run manual scans. Your IT service provider should perform this regularly.
It’s essential to check and confirm that all access points to your network are legitimate. If there are any suspicious activities, do a thorough investigation; this could be disastrous for the company if these warning signs are ignored.
BE ON THE SAFE SIDE
The part of running a business that involves battling hackers may not be the most fun. On the other hand, neglecting cybersecurity makes your business an easy target for scammers. Damage to your reputation could be irreversible, and the loss of money, data, and information.
Adopting the strategies outlined here should be an excellent place to start, but no solution is 100% foolproof.
Please contact us today for more information about how we can help protect you from cyberattacks. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us so that we can set up a no-pressure conversation to discuss your needs.