Beware of These five Common Cyber Security Myths

January 3, 2023

In the wake of a new wave of malicious software that threatens all types of businesses, including small firms, you’ll need to beware of these five common cyber security myths. While you may already have antivirus software installed on your system, there are some common misconceptions about this technology that you need to know about.

Antivirus software can only protect you from malicious software and intrusions

Antivirus software is a handy tool for protecting computers and mobile devices from viruses, worms, and other malicious software. It can also use to protect yourself from phishing and identity theft. But while this software is effective, it’s not enough to defend against more sophisticated threats.

The good news is that there are several types of anti-malware programs on the market. Each designed to perform a different function. For example, some will prevent malicious codes from installing while others will block spyware. You may need to decide what level of protection is right for you.

Antivirus software can purchase through a computer store or online. You can also download free versions of such programs. But no matter what you choose, it’s important to keep it up to date.

Modern malware is hard to detect

Malware has been around for years. Although the prevalence of malicious software on the Web is no secret, the sophistication of the threat has risen sharply. There are several factors to consider. One is whether the attacker is merely using a tool of dubious reliability or is attempting to execute a plan of catastrophic proportions. In the first instance, a good malware detection tool is the best defense. It should also be the first line of defence in the case of a cyber attack, and should deployed as soon as possible. This is especially true of newer malware like ransomware. Once a machine is infected, it is far from being safe. The sheer volume of new threats makes it a daunting task to contain and evict.

Phishing attacks are becoming more convincing

Phishing is a type of cyber crime that involves fraudulently obtaining personal information or identifying data from a target through an email or other form of communication. This information can use for financial gain, identity theft, blackmail, or espionage.

In a phishing attack, the attacker poses as a person or entity that the victim trusts. The attacker will then attempt to obtain personal information or a password from the victim through a fraudulent website or email.

In the past, phishing attacks often carried out using an AOHell program, which was capable of stealing credit card information. However, these days, phishing attempts are more convincing and conducted through more sophisticated methods.

Successful phishing messages designed to invoke fear, and may include a request to verify personal information. They will also contain misspelled URLs or URLs that point to malicious web resources.

Small businesses attract less law enforcement attention from hackers

Despite the best efforts of law enforcement agencies, small businesses are still a target of cybercriminals. A recent survey revealed that 87% of companies surveyed have some sort of customer data that can snagged by a hacker, or hacked in the event of an onsite or remote access incident. It’s no wonder that many small businesses are opting to invest in cybersecurity solutions, rather than acquiesce to a savvy attacker.

The biggest problem small business owners face is that they’re not financially prepared for a major data breach. They also don’t have a dedicated cybersecurity staff, leaving their security defenses in the hands of a less than vigilant employee. While it’s hard to fault a small business for taking a gamble on a single security breach, it’s a different story when a handful of attackers launch a coordinated campaign.

Negligent insider threats are when an employee or executive negligently exposes your business to a cyber vulnerability

Negligent insider threats are a real danger for any business. They are when an employee or executive negligently exposes your organization to a cyber vulnerability. These threats are a serious risk to business operations, and can be costly.

These threats include both malicious and careless insiders. A malicious insider is a high-privileged user who intentionally abuses his or her access to information, or acts on personal or professional gain. An insider may also be a disgruntled employee, collaborator, or vendor.

Almost every organization faces negligent insider threats. These are employees who don’t follow proper IT procedures, or don’t apply security patches or other updates. They can also be administrators who haven’t changed their default passwords, or have unsecured devices.

The main causes of these unintentional compromises are a lack of knowledge about security, inexperience, or ignorance of policies. Therefore, implementing and enforcing security best practices, educating employees, and monitoring suspicious behavior are important.

Ammar Fakhruddin

ABOUT AUTHOR

Ammar brings in 18 years of experience in strategic solutions and product development in Public Sector, Oil & Gas and Healthcare organizations. He loves solving complex real world business and data problems by bringing in leading-edge solutions that are cost effective, improve customer and employee experience. At Propelex he focuses on helping businesses achieve digital excellence using Smart Data & Cybersecurity solutions.


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