A Guide To Protecting Your Business Against Cyber Threats

With the ever growing prevalence of cyberthreats, taking appropriate measures to protect your business and its reputation has never been more vital. Companies without the necessary security precautions risk falling victim to data breaches, malware, ransomware and phishing attacks among others. In today’s digital world safeguarding sensitive information, maintaining customer trust, and preventing financial losses are the key components for successful business operations. 

Most Common Cyber Threats Faced By Businesses 

• Phishing: the most common cyber threat with 493.2 million attacks in 2023. According to Cybercrime Statistics, phishing attacks have resulted in $52.1 million financial losses. During such attacks, companies or individuals are tricked into revealing sensitive information such as passwords or financial details by means of deceptive emails, messages or websites pretending to be a legitimate entity. Therefore, if your identity is stolen, it's crucial to know how you should respond to the theft of your identity promptly and notify relevant authorities and financial institutions, as well as take immediate steps to secure your accounts and personal information.
• Malware: also known as malicious software, is a software designed to harm, exploit, or compromise devices, networks, or computer systems. This includes ransomware, spyware, and viruses that are intended to damage, disrupt or gain unauthorised access to systems. 
• Business email compromise: 23.6% of corporate emails that were received in Q1 of 2023 were untrustworthy or malicious. FBI Data identifies $51 billion in exposed losses due to business email compromise in 2021. During such cyber attacks, malicious actors gain unauthorised access to a business email account and impersonate employees, executives, or business partners. They often partake in fraudulent transactions, request sensitive information or carry out other activities for financial gain. 

The Importance Of Online Security 

For small businesses, maintaining customer trust, protecting their financial assets and sensitive data requires appropriate online security measures to be taken. A data breach or a cyberattack can result in reputational damage, legal consequences, and operational disruptions. Strong security protocols reduce the likelihood of malicious cyberattacks, protect sensitive company data and foster a safe, trustworthy online environment for the customers which is crucial for a successful business. 

How To Protect Your Business Against Cyberattacks

With the current technological advancements, there are luckily a number of protective measures companies can implement to protect themselves and their customers from cyberthreats. Appropriate online security tools will significantly reduce the chances of cyber victimisation and contribute to a safer online environment.  

1. VPN

A VPN, also known as Virtual Private Network, is a great security tool that offers plenty of advantages. It encrypts all data travelling to and from a device which ensures that sensitive information remains confidential and secure. It masks IP-addresses, which protects your business from data interception and provides an overall increased privacy and security. Additionally, a VPN offers the benefit of bypassing geographical restrictions, allowing businesses to conduct market research in spaces otherwise unavailable to them. VPN’s also offer plenty of discounts when booking business trips, purchasing needed resources or even receiving YouTube Premium discount to enhance marketing efforts. 

2. Antivirus Software 

Antivirus software is a great tool that can help businesses elevate their cybersecurity strategy, protect their systems, data and operations. It offers malware protection, which prevents, detects and removes various kinds of malware infections including spyware, adware, and even trojan virus. It also scans files and systems, which ensures the integrity and security of sensitive business information, protecting it against unauthorised access and data breaches. Lastly, it scans emails and reduces the risk of phishing attacks which increases the overall email security. 

3. Security Information and Event Management 

An organisation’s hardware and software systems produce security alerts, which can be analysed real-time by Security Information and Event Management (SIEM). SIEM systems gather and compile log data produced by the company’s IT infrastructure, evaluate it, and send reports or alerts accordingly. This helps businesses to detect and respond to security threats, providing a clear overview of how to identify and address security incidents.