Cybersecurity | The Fight Against Scammers

Technology is an essential part of life. Businesses across all industries utilize a wide variety of programs and systems that allow for more efficiency in the workplace. Unfortunately, each new advancement increases the potential for cyberattacks. As a result, it is more critical than ever to know the risks and take precautions for technology usage.

Scammers use many avenues to gain information from employees and businesses. Here are the most common:

• Phishing: Scammers gain information by using fake emails or voice calls in hopes of receiving a response. In some cases, an actual phone number from an organization will be used for voice phishing, or vishing, to solicit personal information.
• Malware: Malware is a computer virus most commonly disguised as a harmless link or email. This type of attack can give scammers access to stored data, personal files and website traffic.
• Brute force attacks: These attacks occur when hackers repeatedly try to log into someone’s account. Accounts are most susceptible to these attacks when passwords are reused on different websites. Scammers may gain access to one password and use those credentials for other sites to eventually gain access

In light of the cyber threats that businesses are constantly facing, it’s more important than ever to arm employees with the education and tools they need to protect their information and stay safe online.

There are several steps companies can take to further data protection, including:

• Behavioral analytics tracking software: Because some hackers can impersonate employees, it can become difficult to detect when credentials have become compromised. This analytics software monitors for abnormal data usage and suspicious activity to spot the transfer of files or large portions of data.
• Automated threat detection software: This software automatically scans programs and files for malicious content to prevent malware.
• Work-from-home guidelines: Employers should implement technology usage policies for employees who work out of the office. Connecting to an unsecured or untrusted Wi-Fi network, for example, can make critical information more susceptible to an attack.
• Employee education: Educating employees about cybersecurity and attacks allows them to spot scams much faster – and provides better technological protection for the entire organization.

As the world evolves, cyber threats will become more sophisticated and commonplace. Creating a solid cybersecurity foundation will help prevent future attacks and secure vital data.