Securing Devices within the Internet of Things
Every digital device that connects us is also a door that hackers can utilize to access our data. These internet-connected devices comprise the Internet of Things and Gartner analysts predict there will be 43 billion IoT devices worldwide. Unfortunately, most manufacturers have not focused on tightly securing devices like smart lights or thermostats in the past because they do not directly store sensitive data. However, since hackers tend to use them as entryways to access other networked devices that do hold private information, more companies are beginning to focus on securing even the most innocuous devices through user-set passwords and providing security patches and updates to existing systems.
Protecting Remote Workers from Cybersecurity Attacks
Working from home was a temporary solution that began during the pandemic and has persisted as a permanent solution for many companies. Many employees took company laptops and smartphones out of the office and away from the IT department’s ability to check and update these devices with anti-virus software. Furthermore, many employees began using their personal devices to remotely connect to work networks, creating a new set of cybersecurity challenges.
When using a non-secured device, an employee is more likely to fall victim to a phishing attack and divulge important passwords. More remote workers may find themselves on a team where they don’t know everyone, increasing the risk of impersonation scams. This could lead to ransomware attacks, where virus software enters a network and erases essential information unless users pay a ransom to the hacker. All of these risks increase in a remote working situation, making their security more important than ever.
Increasing International Hacks on Businesses
Nation-states are increasing cyber-espionage as warfare to undermine competing governments. But nowadays, even companies and NGOs are at risk of international hacks, especially here in the DMV so close to the nation’s capital. In fact, thousands of attacks on global servers are estimated by security agencies to be by foreign governments. This year, over 70 countries will hold government elections, and these events are a point of interest for cyberattacks from hostile foreign interests. Besides hacks and cyberattacks on government and business infrastructure, disinformation campaigns across social media have been proven to cause divisions in many countries worldwide to influence a victory that may benefit the hostile state. If your business has ever worked with government organizations or individuals, it’s an even better reason to protect your networks from cyberattacks.
Artificial intelligence Can Detect, React, and Prevent Hacks
The sharp increase in cyberattacks in recent years has made it difficult for human experts to react and predict the next dangerous attack. However, AI can play a prominent role as machine learning algorithms can examine and detect patterns in data at lightning speed to recognize a potential future threat. A study by IBM found that companies who use AI to respond to data breaches save an average of $3 million more than those who forego it. But this also means more hackers are also becoming proficient at using AI algorithms to find a poorly secured system that contains valuable data among millions of internet-connected computers. AI can also create massive numbers of phishing emails within minutes that bypass automated email defense systems and can extract passwords or other sensitive information from unaware users. Both hackers and security agents are rushing to create more sophisticated algorithms to work to their advantage by using AI cybersecurity.
Take Preventative Measures with Cybersecurity-Aware Employees
The easiest thing your company can do to protect sensitive data is to create a culture that is aware of cybersecurity issues among your employees. Many of your workers may write off cybersecurity as a problem for the IT department to handle, but if everyone understands how to take basic precautions against common threats, then you’ll only strengthen your business security and that of your employees too. For example, phishing uses “social engineering” methods that may deceive a user into installing malware onto their device, and companies that have older employees are especially vulnerable to this.
No one needs technical skills to know how to spot, report, and block phishing. Similarly, your company should regularly ensure that everyone understands, utilizes, and is up to date with two-factor authentication (2FA) and the safe usage of passwords. Of course, if you want to take things further with something like encrypted emails or messaging systems, it can only help your company continue to build a resilient network ready for anything this year!
Here at Trinity Wiring Solutions, we are proud to offer security solutions for commercial and residential properties, whether you need a security camera for your warehouse or a tightly secured network for your office. If you have questions about cybersecurity and how to implement better practices for your business, contact us today to begin!