Basic IT risks to avoid

Technology is changing rapidly. There are more online risks and malicious actors on the Internet than ever before. With more ways to compromise your network, gain access to your devices, and steal your information, you need to make sure you’re considering information technology (IT) risks, cyber threats, and preparedness for breaches.

It doesn’t matter if you belong to the tech industry or not; if you use computers you need to focus on YOU. Here are five basic IT risks you should avoid.

Malware

Malware is software created to exploit vulnerabilities in your network through your browser. Attack your devices, networks and servers with a variety of tools. For example, malware can install Trojan horse viruses on a device that can spread throughout the network. It can install malicious malware files or it can put a “worm” on a device to find specific information. Finally, malware can combine with ransomware to take full control of your devices and your network.

data hijacking

Ransomware, on the other hand, is software that is created to take control of your computers and network by downloading it via an attachment. With ransomware, a certain amount of money is required to free the devices, the information stored on them, and other data found over the network. If you don’t pay the ransom, malicious hackers could exploit the information and blackmail you. They could also keep the computers and everything on them.

Furthermore, even if you pay the ransom, attackers could still use what they found for other means of making money. They may never return access. With both malware and ransomware, protection software must be installed on all devices on the network and employees must be trained to never click or download anything they are not sure of.

data theft

Another huge but common IT risk is data theft. Data is one of the most valuable aspects of any business these days. Whether you’re in the technology business or have collected data from your customers, the information found on your company’s computers, network, and servers can be extremely valuable. Not surprisingly, hackers often try to gain access and steal this information.

However, the better organized and protected you are, the less risk you have. Offsite cloud storage can make it difficult for hackers to gain access to information because it is not on the same server. Violation detection is very important in this regard. Whether you are working with your data or simply storing it, protecting this information is essential.

silent violations

One of the most common and terrifying attacks is the silent one. Hackers don’t need to change anything, install ransomware or a virus to get something out. There are benefits to just seeing how your systems work. They may not even steal any data. If you’re innovating and creating something new, they just want to see how you’re doing. They may leave everything intact and you may not realize there was a breach for days or even weeks. That’s why it’s critical to have an effective and experienced IT team monitoring the network, preventing and preparing for breaches.

Identity fraud

Phishing is the practice of tricking a person into revealing sensitive information or downloading a malicious file. This usually happens via email, but it can also be done elsewhere. Phishing attacks include a crafted link or layout designed to trick a person into entering their information. Often these attackers try to disguise themselves as a trusted company. Not only should you have anti-phishing protection on your devices, but you should also train your employees to be on the lookout for these attacks.

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