Today’s average consumer is expected to own 13 digital devices
If you’ve heard of cyber security, you’re probably familiar with the term and the technology involved in protecting your computers and networks from attacks by nefarious actors. Today’s average consumer is expected to own 13 digital devices by 2020. Many of us already have more than this many devices, including video doorbells, crib monitors, and pet feeders. But while these devices make our lives easier, they also make our personal information vulnerable.
Computer systems are at risk
Information that can be compromised by hackers or other malicious actors is valuable. With more information available online and through wireless or wired digital communication networks, cybercrime is increasing. Computer systems are no exception. To stay ahead of this threat, companies and government agencies must implement a range of security measures. Understanding evolving cyber threats is essential for security professionals. Here are some common cyber threats that affect business systems. Listed below are some common threats that are present on computer systems.
Ransomware: This malicious software can encrypt all data on an organization’s computer, including financial information. Once encrypted, it can be difficult or impossible to recover the data. Zero-day exploit: These attacks use a vulnerability that no one knows exists in the system. They can compromise sensitive data, disrupt service, and even access critical systems. Two common vulnerabilities are SQL Injection and Cross-Site Scripting (XSS).
Cyber security protects against electronic attacks by nefarious actors
The concept of cyber security is not new. Large companies and governments have created computer emergency response teams to protect critical infrastructure from nefarious actors. However, a cyberattack on a critical system can have devastating consequences. For example, the 2021 attack on the Colonial Pipeline, a critical energy pipeline in the East Coast, caused the sudden shutdown of the pipeline, affecting 45% of East Coast fuel consumption.
Today’s cyber security challenges are complex. Companies have increasingly shifted their infrastructure, employees, and operations to remote locations. IT departments now have hundreds or even thousands of remote employees, each with their own network and security settings. As a result, the cyber landscape has evolved to become a highly targeted target for hackers. In addition, digital supply chains are increasingly being targeted by attackers. To combat this, companies must implement effective cyber security measures and educate their employees.
It involves people-oriented skills
A job in cyber security involves many people-oriented skills, including problem-solving and analytical thinking. Cyber security professionals must be able to balance the interests of both companies and employees by ensuring that sensitive data is protected. Individuals with strong people-oriented skills are ideal for this role. Because cyber security involves a high degree of risk, it’s important to take a broad view of a job’s responsibilities.
It involves anti-virus software
Antivirus software scans your computer for malicious software, such as viruses and malware. It is a critical component of online security and protects you from data breaches and other threats. Just like a cold virus, a computer virus spreads by sending out malicious codes to infect other computers. These viruses are designed to damage your operating system and give hackers and other criminals access to your information. Fortunately, most anti-virus software has built-in security features to protect your device from such dangers.
Unfortunately, the best antivirus software is not completely foolproof. Some of these programs incorrectly flag normal files as dangerous, which can damage your computer. In some cases, this software will delete the files that are harmless, resulting in even more problems. Sometimes, these programs can even paralyze an entire operating system. Recently, Microsoft Security Essentials tagged Google Chrome as a malicious program, forcing Google to release a patched version of its chrome browser.
It involves endpoint security
Endpoint security involves protecting the devices used by employees, which can include desktops, laptops, smartphones, and tablets. Endpoints are increasingly outside the enterprise network, thanks to the growth of BYOD and remote work practices. Endpoint security can help protect these devices from being infected with malware or other threats before they pose a risk. This means that endpoint security can help keep your company’s data safe.
Endpoint security is a key component of cyber protection. It locks down the elements of your organization that can allow unauthorized access from within, forcing cybersecurity professionals to carefully consider all possible access routes. Hackers usually select a mechanism for attack – a networked device, website, or piece of software – and then they try to hide their activities from the company’s defense systems. Therefore, endpoint security helps prevent these devastating outcomes.
It involves monitoring your vendors’ security posture
Effective cyber security requires constant monitoring of vendors’ security posture. Cybercriminals are constantly seeking new ways to exploit weak infrastructure and insecure systems, and companies need to constantly assess their security posture. An organization’s cybersecurity posture is an important indicator of its overall cyber-resilience and strength. Cybercrime can destroy revenue and reputation, as well as cause other problems, including the loss of important data. However, companies can protect themselves and their customers from such threats by implementing security measures and risk-analysis programs.
The first step is to create a vendor monitoring program. With this program, security ratings are continually assessed and updated. This continuous monitoring ensures your vendors are meeting your security standards. In addition, you can establish separate alerts for different groups of vendors. For example, you may choose to set up separate alerts for critical third parties, while less-critical vendors can be monitored with specific alerts for risk vectors.