Do you know about the security threats your business faces? The rise of internet crime and the impact of data breaches can be alarming.
Two common cyber threats are malware and phishing. When these threats combine, they can cause serious problems. This post will help you identify these threats, understand how they work, and protect your data.
Malware, or malicious software, is harmful software that damages your device, network, or server. This includes viruses, ransomware, trojans, and other programs that exploit network weaknesses.
To reduce the damage from malware, adopt a zero-trust approach to cybersecurity. Additionally, DNS protection can offer extra security to help prevent data breaches.
Ransomware is a type of malware that makes your device or files unusable or threatens to expose private data unless you pay a ransom to the attackers. Ransomware often spreads through malicious links or attachments. Even visiting a dangerous site can result in malware being downloaded to your device.
Phishing, on the other hand, is when someone tries to collect private information like passwords or usernames. Phishing messages are usually sent via email but can also come through texts, calendar invites, or phone calls.
Phishing is popular among hackers because it is easy to execute and can yield significant profits. Sadly, it has proven effective time and again.
Malware and phishing are different cybersecurity threats, but they often overlap. Phishing is a common way for attackers to deliver malware, including ransomware. If your organization is unprepared, these attacks can have serious consequences.
According to the U.S. Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), among the top 11 malware strains identified in 2021, 5 used phishing emails to spread, while another 3 relied on emails with malicious attachments.
This means your organization is not safe from malware unless you also guard against phishing attacks.
Phishing attacks can trick even the most careful employees because they have become more sophisticated. While phishing can appear in different formats, here are some common signs to watch for:
1. The message looks different from typical communications from the sender.
2. The message is sent through an unusual method, such as SMS or a phone call, instead of email.
3. The email address or URL seems suspicious or unfamiliar.
4. The website you visit does not match the URL in the link you clicked.
If anyone in your organization receives a message with any of these signs, it likely poses a security threat. Unfortunately, your organization will probably face cyberattacks at some point.
There is no guaranteed way to prevent cyber attacks, but you can take steps to lower the chances of encountering malware or falling for phishing scams.
1. Train your employees about the risks of malware and how to spot and report phishing attempts. Education is key to protecting your organization and keeping your data safe.
2. Keep all your software updated, including operating systems, applications, and network assets. This practice helps ensure ongoing protection.
