Cyberattacks are on the rise and causing damage to businesses worldwide. However, as many as 95% of these attacks are caused by human error. Do you know how to prevent a cyberattack? Test your knowledge!
If you get an unsolicited email with a link asking you to verify your password, should you click it?
Any email that asks for your log-in credentials or asks you to click a link should be regarded with suspicion, as it may be a phishing attempt. These emails often look legitimate, but are designed to steal your information or infect your computer with malware.
If someone you don’t know calls and asks you for sensitive information, should you give it to them? What if they claim to be from your business?
It seems obvious that you should never give out sensitive information to someone you don’t know, but with social engineering attacks, this is exactly what happens. Hackers utilize social pressures, such as posing as someone high-level in a corporation, to trick or pressure you into giving up account information, passwords, or other sensitive data. Always confirm that the request is legitimate before giving out this type of data.
How can you protect your network from attack?
Hardening is the method most recommended to help secure your network. Hardening involves removing unnecessary programs and applications, limiting user access, deleting accounts you no longer use, and otherwise limiting the number of potential targets for attack.
Does not updating your software affect your security?
Software developers are always on the lookout for security risks in their products so they can develop patches to remove that risk. By not taking advantage of these security patches, you’re putting your device and your network at risk. It’s essential to keep your software up-to-date.
Should you access any sensitive data over public Wi-Fi?
Free public Wi-Fi may be convenient, but it is a major security risk. If you must use it, you should connect via a VPN (virtual private network). A VPN encrypts your data to help ensure your privacy and keep your connection safe from interception.
With cyberattacks being commonplace, understanding the human factor in protecting your company is imperative. Knowing how to identify phishing emails and social engineering attacks, as well as keeping your network and software updated, can greatly reduce your risk of cyberattack.
Ask us about an IT risk assessment for your business!
