In a present where every click can open an insecure digital door, cybersecurity concerns us all! Cybersecurity refers to the application of technologies, processes, and control solutions to protect networks, devices, applications, systems, and data from cyber threats. The goal is to prevent and combat attacks that try to access or destroy data, steal money, or disrupt business operations.
In recent years, the number of cyberattacks has increased significantly. The main reasons include rapid digitalization, the increase in the number of connected devices, and especially the sophistication of attack techniques. In 2024, cyberattacks are more frequent and complex. Among the most widespread threats are phishing, when attackers use misleading messages, ransomware, which blocks access to data until a sum of money is paid, and DDoS attacks, which overload servers to make them unavailable.
Cybercriminals are always ready to take advantage of new opportunities. For example, in the first 5 months of the pandemic, in the U.S. alone, cybercrime cases jumped by up to 300%. Largely, the opportunity for hackers arose from remote work, which often lacked a robust cybersecurity infrastructure.
As more companies rely on connectivity or transition to remote work, cybercrime will continue to rise. According to the World Economic Forum’s Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2023, 86% of business leaders and 93% of cybersecurity leaders expect a “catastrophic cyber event” to occur in the next two years.
If you represent a company and you are concerned about the security of your business, here are 10 basic measures to start prevention with safe steps!
- Train your employees
People are the weakest link, but they are also the first line of defense against cyberattacks. 90% of cyberattacks are caused by human behavior and error, with phishing practices, weak passwords, and working on unsecured networks being the most common pitfalls. Provide trainings on recognizing dangerous emails, avoiding downloads from unsafe websites, and other security best practices.
2. Update the software regularly
Updates often include patches for known vulnerabilities, which reduce the risk of being exploited by attackers.
3. Update your passwords regularly
- Use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Ensure passwords are hard to guess and don’t contain obvious words or personal information.
- Avoid using the same password for multiple accounts.
- Change passwords frequently.
Using a password manager allows you to use complex passwords and store them securely in an encrypted online vault.
4. Use two-factor authentication (2FA)
Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of protection by also requiring unique codes generated on secondary devices. This makes it much more difficult for attackers to access your accounts even if they have discovered your password.
5. Back up regularly
Periodically create backups of important data so you can recover it in case of loss. Make sure your backups are stored in secure locations that are isolated from your network.
6. Protect yourself with a Firewall
A Firewall acts as a guardian between your device and the internet. It monitors and controls network traffic, both inbound and outbound, to prevent unauthorized access and disclosure of sensitive information. It’s important to set it up correctly and check for updates frequently to make sure they’re up to date and functioning properly.
7. Install a trusted antivirus
An antivirus detects, blocks, and removes malware, including viruses, spyware, and adware, thus protecting the user’s computer and data from cyberattacks. Again, it’s important to keep your software up-to-date to avoid the latest threats.
8. Limit access to vital information
Ensure that only a limited number of trusted employees have access to sensitive information. Develop a clear plan, communicate it to the entire team to ensure you’re all on the same page, and specify exactly who has access to critical information and why.
9. Monitor and analyze network traffic
Use active monitoring and network traffic analysis tools to quickly identify suspicious activity and respond promptly to any attack attempts.
10. Regularly test for vulnerabilities
Perform penetration testing and vulnerability assessments to identify and remediate weaknesses in the security infrastructure.
Cybersecurity cannot be reduced to a simple or one-size-fits-all solution. It is essential to adopt a complex and multi-layered approach to ensure adequate protection. Understanding and implementing proactive security measures, along with utilizing advanced technologies and specialized consulting, is the starting point. The next step? Personalizing these measures. Magneticca is the trusted partner you need in this process. With our team of experts, you can build and implement customized cybersecurity strategies, ensuring your business keeps up with the challenges of an ever-changing digital world. Cybersecurity is everybody’s business, so we look forward to discussing it with you!
