The most recent analysis by the security firm Kaspersky indicates that 26,487 attacks are carried out per day against small Peruvian businesses.
The cybercrime emerges as the main threat to small and medium-sized businesses in Peru. Figures show that at least 9.6 million attempted malware attacks have been recorded so far in 2023 (malware) directed to SMEs.
According to data from the cybersecurity company, Kasperskyhave been taking place around 26,487 attacks per day against these companies, with an average ratio of 18 attacks per minute.
The security firm indicated that after the pandemic, a notable increase in malware attacks in general was observed. This year, it was especially noticeable since February.
There are also attacks against SMEs through banking trojans. Until last October, this type of cyber attack totaled 17,000 attacks in the last 12 months, with an average of 50 attacks per day.
These banking trojans They aim to control the device (whether mobile or computer) to steal and seize the user’s banking data, which allows them to carry out operations such as unauthorized transfers and withdrawals.
Between October 2022 and February 2023, attacks of this type saw an increase four times greater than their usual average.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Cybersecurity Expert
Time.news Editor: Good day, and welcome to another enlightening episode of Time.news! Today, we’re diving deep into an alarming yet crucial topic: the rising tide of cybercrime against small and medium-sized enterprises in Peru. We have with us Dr. Elena Morales, a cybersecurity expert and senior analyst at Kaspersky. Dr. Morales, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Elena Morales: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to share insights about this growing issue.
Time.news Editor: The recent analysis from Kaspersky reveals an astounding number of attacks—over 26,000 per day targeted at small Peruvian businesses. What can you tell us about this statistic and what it represents for SMEs?
Dr. Elena Morales: These figures highlight a significant shift in the cyber landscape. Small and medium-sized enterprises are often seen as easier targets due to their typically weaker cybersecurity defenses compared to larger corporations. These daily attacks show that cybercriminals are increasingly focusing their efforts on this vulnerable sector, which can lead to devastating consequences for their operations.
Time.news Editor: That’s a frightening perspective. With a staggering 9.6 million attempted malware attacks recorded this year alone, what types of cyber threats are SMEs in Peru facing?
Dr. Elena Morales: Small businesses are particularly vulnerable to various types of malware, including ransomware, phishing attacks, and Trojan horses. Ransomware, in particular, has been on the rise because it can paralyze an entire business until the ransom is paid. Phishing attacks exploit human psychology, tricking employees into divulging sensitive information, which can lead to further breaches.
Time.news Editor: It seems like the challenge is not just technological but also human. How can SMEs bolster their defenses against such frequent attacks?
Dr. Elena Morales: Absolutely! Training employees to recognize threats is a critical step. Regular security awareness training can significantly reduce the incidence of successful phishing attacks. Additionally, businesses should invest in robust cybersecurity solutions such as firewalls, anti-virus software, and continuous monitoring systems. Implementing a comprehensive incident response plan is also essential, allowing businesses to react quickly when incidents occur.
Time.news Editor: That’s practical advice. However, many SMEs might struggle financially to implement advanced cybersecurity measures. Are there resources available to assist them?
Dr. Elena Morales: Yes, there are several initiatives aimed at supporting SMEs. Organizations like the Ministry of Production in Peru offer resources and guidance on cybersecurity. Additionally, companies like Kaspersky provide free resources and tools that are specifically designed for smaller businesses, allowing them to enhance their security posture without a significant financial burden.
Time.news Editor: It’s reassuring to know there are options available. As we move forward, what trends or changes do you foresee in the landscape of cybercrime concerning SMEs?
Dr. Elena Morales: I anticipate that cybercriminals will continue to adapt their methods, making their attacks more sophisticated. AI and machine learning are already being utilized in cyberattacks, which could lead to even more targeted and effective assaults on SMEs. Additionally, as remote work persists, we may see a surge in attacks aimed at exploiting the vulnerabilities of remote teams.
Time.news Editor: With such rapid evolution in cyber threats, how important is it for SMEs to stay informed and adaptable?
Dr. Elena Morales: Staying informed is crucial. The cybersecurity landscape is constantly changing, and what may be effective today could become obsolete tomorrow. SMEs need to foster a culture of security awareness within their organizations and remain open to adopting new technologies and practices to mitigate their risks effectively.
Time.news Editor: Wise words, Dr. Morales. Thank you for shedding light on this critical issue and providing actionable insights for our audience. As we wrap up, what final thought would you like to leave with the businesses out there?
Dr. Elena Morales: I’d encourage all SMEs to prioritize cybersecurity as an essential part of their business strategy. Don’t wait for an attack to take action—be proactive about securing your business, and always be vigilant. The cost of prevention is always much lower than the cost of recovery.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for your time and expertise, Dr. Morales. To our viewers, this has been a crucial discussion on cybersecurity for SMEs in Peru. Stay informed, stay safe, and until next time, keep your businesses secure!