5 Most Fearsome Cybersecurity Threats and How to Protect Yourself
It helps to understand what the most fearsome cybersecurity threats are so that you can be vigilant. Here's what you should know.
We regularly hear about cybercrimes that have threatened high-profile companies or even put national security at risk. The global cost of cybercrime is already close to $10 trillion. This staggering number confirms that cybercriminals could target anyone with an online presence.
Protecting the integrity and security of your data from cybersecurity threats should be a top priority. Using specialist companies such as Impact ICT, for example, can help reduce the prospect of a successful attack and minimize the consequences of discovering that your data has been compromised somehow.
It helps to understand what the most fearsome cybersecurity threats are so that you can be vigilant. Here’s what you should know.
An easy way to exploit human vulnerabilities
One of the most pervasive forms of hacking and one of the most common cybersecurity threats is social engineering.
What this entails is cybercriminals exploiting human errors. These criminals know that fooling a human is far easier than trying to find a way through a technical loophole.
The vast majority of data breaches are a result of human interaction and frailties. Social engineering is used to obtain sensitive personal data. Phishing would be a prime example of social engineering in action.
Software configuration errors
Cybercriminals are constantly looking for configuration mistakes in software setups that they can exploit. It is always a good idea to get the help of cybersecurity professionals who can identify any exploitable weaknesses in the software’s configuration before it can be targeted.
A lack of security awareness or vigilance
Another viable threat comes from so-called poor “cyber hygiene”. This term relates to the habits and practices of users that invite potential attacks.
Anyone who uses a weak or unprotected Wi-Fi password, for instance, could be accused of poor cyber hygiene. Only about a third of people regularly change their passwords and an estimated 40% don’t even change their password after a data breach.
That is inviting trouble.
Exploiting vulnerabilities in the cloud
Cloud computing is now a mainstream activity. Although the cloud is generally considered to be a relatively secure environment it is clear that it is not immune to cybersecurity threats.
With so many remote workers accessing their work via a cloud network there is always the potential for a breach. This has prompted the introduction of protocols such as Zero Trust systems that have more robust verification processes to help keep cyber criminals out.
Mobile security flaws
Smartphones are the default device for many of us these days. The continued adoption of mobile wallets and other payment technologies has created a host of opportunities for unscrupulous cybercriminals.
As cybercriminals are now consistently targeting the very mobile device management systems that are supposed to keep us safe it makes sense to review mobile security regularly.
Mobile devices can even be used as an entry point for targeting both corporate as well as personal data and systems.
A smart move would be to review your security protocols consistently and regularly. Also, get professional guidance on how to avert the threat that cybercriminals pose across a range of devices and systems every time you are connected to the internet.
