The cyber security landscape is changing, and cyber threats are becoming more severe and happening more frequently.
The Internet has brought about undisputed advantages virtually; it has dark side too-stolen data, identity thefts, and security breaches have become the order of the day. More of our lives are moving online, making individuals, companies and governments more exposed to cyber attackers. So in today's world, cyber security is as vital as ever. The cybersecurity landscape is changing, and cyber threats are becoming more severe and happening more frequently.
What is CyberSecurity?
Cyber Security is protecting and recovering computer systems, networks, devices and programs from unauthorised access or cyber-attacks. Cyber attacks are increasingly sophisticated and evolving dangers to sensitive data.
The world is more reliant on technology, which will continue as we introduce the next generation of new technology that will access our connected devices via Bluetooth and WiFi.
Why is CyberSecurity Important?
In today's world importance of cyber security is on the rise because it protects all categories of data from theft and damage. Cybersecurity is essential to save sensitive data, personally identifiable information, intellectual property, and governmental and industry information systems. Without a cybersecurity program, organisations cannot defend themselves against data breach campaigns, which makes them a target for cybercriminals.
Sensitive information like social security numbers, credit card information and bank account details are now stored in cloud storage services like Dropbox or google drive. Individuals, small businesses or large multinational businesses will rely on computer systems daily. And poor cloud services security, smartphones and the IoT have infinite potential security vulnerabilities that didn't exist a few decades ago. Also, they cannot rely on cybersecurity solutions like Antivirus software and firewalls because cybercriminals are getting more thoughtful, and their tactics are becoming more flexible to conventional cyber defences. So it is essential to ensure cybersecurity in an organisation to stay well protected.
As Hackers become more innovative and inventive, new and advanced methods of cyber-attacks are emerging daily. Two thousand two hundred forty-four attacks are happening daily, almost one cyber attack every 39 seconds. Ninety-five per cent of security breaches happen because of human errors. Hackers target weak links; most incidents occur when an employee downloads malicious files and releases malware into the network.
Commonly occurring attacks:
Ransomware is the number one cybersecurity threat, and a ransomware attack can occur every 10 seconds. It is the most dangerous hack, which is easy and cheap. Attackers can deny access to computer files until a ransom is paid.
Phishing is another popular tactic of hackers. It is an attack that uses disguised email as a weapon. The attacker will impersonate the user into believing they are getting essential messages from their bank or company; this will be a link to download something. And attackers will gather information and use that to install malware on critical systems. Cybersecurity experts keep track of the increases in the use of phishing around the world. Google found 27 per cent of phishing websites. However, these sites will steal personal data, login credentials and medical data. Customising phishing for a targeted person or company is called spear phishing. These types of attacks are also on the rise. Other than this, many other attacks are taking place in this world.
- Man in the middle attack
- Denial of service attacks
- SQL Injection attacks
- DNS Tunneling
- Password attacks
- Cryptojacking
- Denial of Service attacks(Dos and DDos) etc.
People love installing new apps on mobiles to help make life more convenient, productive and fun. But many apps need to be more secure. Using these apps also leads to financial devastation and identity and data theft. The malware installed on android platforms has increased by 400 per cent. The problem is that individuals are much more relaxed regarding their smartphones than their laptops. While 72 per cent of users have free antivirus software on their systems, only 52 per cent have any protection on their phones.
So keep in mind this is dangerous because mobile devices are now handheld personal assistants. They are used to track everything from work related to family and friends to financial information. If any phone is the victim of cybercrime, then all data become accessible to the hacker.
Remote working also brings plenty of benefits to companies and workers. Establish protocols and policies to reduce risks. Antivirus software detects threats and blocks suspicious files from causing damage. Today, IT professionals must worry about advanced persistent threats that allow hackers to enter the backdoor and remain undetected for months.
Best CyberSecurity Prevention Techniques
Today the best security techniques available are encryption, antivirus software, firewall, digital signatures and two-factor authentication. Organisations are responsible for protecting customers' data and keeping it from unauthorised access.
Cyberattack risks can be lowered by:
- Reduce data Transfer: keep sensitive data on personal devices.
- Download carefully: verify sources and avoid unnecessary downloads.
- Improve passwords: Avoid using similar passwords for various accounts. Use strings of symbols with no meaning and update regularly.
- Update your Software: Regularly install the latest updates on devices.
- Monitor for data leakers: Quickly detect, respond and stop any activity with software.
Comprehensive cybersecurity is essential in today's connected world. Cyberattacks aren't slowing down anytime soon. Many believe that in future, AI will become a big part of the cyber world as well. "Creating a new breed of AI-powered malware, hackers will infect malware in an organisation's system and sit undetected, gathering information about users' behaviour and organisations' systems. Such attacks will cause some issues. Cybersecurity professionals must also implement AI technology to secure such a threat. Cybersecurity has an extensive outlook for the future with the widespread utilisation of technology in our daily lives.
For the latest cyber threats and the latest hacking news please follow us on Facebook, Linkedin, and Twitter.
You may be interested in reading: How to Survive the COVID Time Cyber Security Threats?