The rapid pace of digital technology means we’re making significant progress across a variety of boundaries. But, along with these advances comes an increase in the size and complexity of cyber-attacks. Here we look at the most prevalent cyber security risks and how you can tackle them head-on.
In addition to reintroducing some of the basic concepts of cybersecurity, we’ll also look at some actions you can do to protect the IT infrastructure you have. In the final part, we’ll look at some of the most effective methods of cyber security and how you can receive instruction.
Cyber security basics
We’ve already discussed the fundamentals of cyber security in an earlier article. Instead of providing all the details here, we’ve merely summarized some of the key details to help you refresh:
How do you define cybersecurity?
The term “security” is used to describe a set of diverse methods that an individual or organization can employ to secure the integrity of systems, networks and data from threats or illegal access.
There are a variety of ways and areas within the cyber security field which are a reflection of the variety and complexity of cyberattacks.
What is the significance of it?
At an individual, organizational or even a national level Cyber security can help protect against problems such as data leaks, the loss or destruction of software, hardware, or other electronic information.
The tools used help to ensure that IT-related services operate without disruption or confusion. When you realize how crucial this field is, it comes as no shock that it’s one of the fastest growing sectors in IT.
Who is responsible?
There are many false beliefs regarding who is accountable for cybersecurity. One could argue the infosec director or security analysts are the person who is responsible within an organization. Although they’re definitely accountable to some extent, every person is responsible for their own security.
While protections and policies exist to ensure technically the equipment used is secure but the user must be informed and aware of the risks of cybercrime that exist.
One of the responsibilities is knowing the cyber-security threats as well as vulnerabilities that exist, and making informed choices about what you do with your IT equipment. Also whether it’s your personal hardware and network is essential, this information is just as important.
Cyber threats of various types and ways to combat cyber threats and how to deal with
While there are jobs in cyber security focused on the prevention of data security breaches, service outages, and other IT security threats, every person must be aware of risks that could be present. In addition, you should also be aware of how to safeguard yourself from these threats.
Below, we’ve identified several of the more prevalent cybersecurity threats and then explained how to combat these threats. These are just a few of the techniques employed to deter hackers as well as other malicious actors to hack into IT systems. To learn more about them it is possible to check out our microcredentials on cyber security .
Phishing
It is the term employed to refer to the method of trying to gain private information through claiming to be a legitimate inquirer. An untrusted individual or organization could ‘fish’ for data through fake communication, like emails, in order to get login credentials or other confidential details.
Phishing is an established method that has increased in sophistication over time. This is why frauds are difficult to identify, even for people with an eye for. Scammers can disguise email addresses, pretend to be legitimate organizations via phone calls or create fake websites that can steal sensitive information.
How to handle phishing
There are many ways that to identify and avoid scams. Here are some great strategies:
- Check that your equipment is installed and updated with the appropriate security software.
- Be cautious of messages or calls that appear to be alarming or a bit unusual. For instance the email may alert you to the possibility of a compromised password, however there may be spelling mistakes or an unorthodox email address or a sloppy design. Be wary of clicking on links unless you are certain of the authenticity of the email.
- If you’re not sure if an email or call is authentic, you should contact the company prior to responding. They’ll know whether the message is authentic or not.
- If you’ve fallen for an phishing scam, you should contact the appropriate authorities. For instance in the UK you can complain with the NCSC.
Malware
There are times when malware and phishing scams often go together. The term refers to malicious software that is designed to carry out attacks on the computer or server which downloads or operates it. Malware attacks can lead to loss of data, or destroy a whole system.
As with phishing, malware attempts to trick the user into clicking on a link or downloading/installing a program. The malware can self-replicate and track keystrokes, take over system resources, stop access, and many other dangerous actions.
How to handle malware?
There are a variety of ways you can avoid and combat cybersecurity threats that could be posed by malware. We’ve provided some important guidelines in the following paragraphs:
- Check if you have anti-malware programs installed and up-to-date the software on your gadget.
- Make backups of your personal data, particularly your most important documents, then ensure you have them stored in an offline storage location.
- Make sure to only open software and files that you can trust to come from a reliable source.
- Check the content and correspondence for any characteristics that appear suspicious (as you would do with frauds that involve phishing).
- Make a plan to protect yourself from a malware attack. Learn more on our Cyber Security Basics ExpertTrack.
Ransomware
Ransomware is a kind of malware that basically secures the files of a victim by encrypting them, so that they are not accessible. In most cases an attacker will require a payment (often payable in anonymity through cryptocurrency) to open the encrypted files. This is perhaps the most significant cyber security risk in the present environment.
Another typical starting point for the ransomware threat is the use of phishing. The attacker attempts to fool users into downloading malware that will then proceed to lock the system.
How do you deal with ransomware?
People who are victims of ransomware can often feel helpless after being not able to access their data. Like numerous cyber-security threats that are on the list below, prevention is usually the best approach to deal with these threats:
- Make sure you have an antivirus program that is up-to-date and installed. This is also true for your personal devices.
- Make sure your devices are set up to ensure that only authorized software and programs can run on the devices. Do not open files or applications that are not from trusted sources.
- If you are the victim of a ransomware attack, alert the IT security department immediately (if working). Remove the affected device on your computer network.
- Inform the authorities about the incident to the authorities. Don’t pay the ransom, but make sure that all relevant organizations are informed They can help you further.
- Learn more about cyber-related threats and risk management using our ExpertTack.
Conclusion:
Cyber security is a crucial aspect in the modern world. With all of our personal data available at the touch of the button and a variety of cyber-related risks to be aware of. If you are aware of the security risks associated with cyberspace and the best ways to handle them, you will provide yourself with the greatest chances of keeping your data secure.
