Businesses across the UK are subjected to an estimated 65,000 attempted cyber-attacks daily based on a Hiscox study.
COVID-19 has exacerbated the situation with companies scrambling to implement work from policies to an unprepared workforce. According to one report, since the lockdown began in March, cyber threats targeting remote workers skyrocketed to more than 60%. Before the lockdown, the figure was 12%.
What are these cyber threats?
Many of the attacks exploit the anxiety and chaos brought on by the virus in the form of malicious email campaigns. Threat actors are using sophisticated means to encourage employees to click on links designed to steal personal information. Some of these lures include telling employees they can choose to be furloughed if they sign up on a website or urging them to click on links to access the latest COVID-19 data. Other attacks involve targeting platforms such as zoom that businesses use to communicate with their employees.
Phishing continues to be a popular cyber threat; however, companies are also dealing with issues such as ransomware and DDoS attacks. For one unfortunate UK company, a ransomware attack topped $50 million.
5 tips to prevent a cyber threat
How can businesses avoid being the next cyber threat victim? A great place to start is by crafting a cybersecurity strategy. The strategy should include, among other things:
- Training remote workers
- Using a VPN
- Strong passwords
- Robust monitoring
- Regular data backups
Training
An unprepared workforce needs training. Employees who are shifting to remote work for the first time should undergo security training before they are given remote access. They should know how to detect malicious activity such as email phishing and the steps to secure a company’s laptop and data when at home.
VPN
One way employees can transmit data securely and keep their online activity private is by installing a Virtual Private Network. Companies should encourage their remote workers to use a VPN app to hide their location and block cybercriminals from tracking their online presence.
Strong passwords
When you think about how criminals can crack 90% of passwords in about 6 hours, we see how important it is for persons to create unique and strong passwords. In addition to a strong password, enable two-factor authentication when users are logging into applications, once the option is available.
Detect and monitor
Having a system to monitor and detect breaches as they occur is a critical part of a business’s cybersecurity strategy. Any intrusion should be logged and reported immediately to implement a course of action to avoid a potential business crisis.
Backup data
Every business, and especially those that handle sensitive information, should have a backup system. When a company has an extra copy of its data in a cloud or stored offline, they build a defense against ransomware attacks. A backup system also ensures business continuity.
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