In an increasingly digital world, ensuring the safety and security of our information has become more important than ever.
From sophisticated hacking techniques to emerging threats, staying ahead of cybercriminals is crucial. Forbes recently explored the top five cybersecurity concerns that demand our attention. Here’s a closer look.
Ransomware & Phishing
Although these techniques are not new, the prevalence and sophistication of ransomware and phishing are on the rise. One recent example involved hackers infiltrating a government contractor’s system in late 2022, seizing control of data from multiple energy utility companies using ransomware.
As cybercriminals target companies of all kinds, no industry is immune to these attacks. All it takes is a single mistake to inadvertently provide an entry point for malicious threat actors. The consequences can be financially devastating, with the average cost of a data breach even reaching $4.35 million last year. The most effective defense against such threats is to educate your team on identifying fraudulent emails that prompt them to click on links or download attachments.
Improper Field-Level Security
The effectiveness of field-level security (FLS) depends on the strength of the security measures implemented to control system access. Insider threats, including employees or contractors, have the potential to circumvent FLS and gain unauthorized access to sensitive data.
Improperly configured FLS can lead to data exposures and other security vulnerabilities, opening the door to unauthorized access of system data. To prevent unnecessary data security vulnerabilities, it is crucial to maintain strict oversight of these settings. This can be achieved through either an appointed manager or an automated scanner to continuously monitor and manage FLS configurations effectively.
Advanced Persistent Threats
Advanced persistent threats (APTs) represent a highly sophisticated form of cyber threat that aims to stealthily extract sensitive information over an extended period of time. These threats are frequently associated with well-organized criminal organizations or nation-state actors who possess substantial resources.
The complexity of APTs makes them difficult to combat, as their advanced techniques enable them to evade detection for prolonged periods. However, risk can still be mitigated by adopting a comprehensive security strategy within an organization. This strategy should encompass regular security updates, network segmentation, intrusion detection systems and ongoing employee education to enhance awareness of potential threats.
Public Access Data
Public access data refers to information that is freely available to the general public without any restrictions or the need for authentication. This type of data can be accessed through websites, databases, APIs, or other sources, and it serves various purposes like research, business intelligence, or policy making.
However, it’s important to note that public access data may not always be reliable and can present cybersecurity risks, such as exposure of sensitive information, unauthorized access or manipulation of data, or the unauthorized use of personal data. Educate your team about its potential risks and implement appropriate safeguards to protect sensitive information and prevent unauthorized access or misuse.
Outdated System Access Controls
Access control serves as the initial barrier against cybercriminals, enabling you to oversee and regulate the accessibility to computer systems, networks, and applications. However, the effectiveness of these measures relies on implementing up-to-date security protocols.
Passwords play a critical role in system security. Weak passwords are susceptible to automated tools that can swiftly crack them, granting unauthorized access to connected networks. By incorporating strong passwords that are regularly updated, you can significantly enhance protection against data breaches.
For more information on staying safe online, call TNTMAX at (201) 891-8686, email us at [email protected].
