Cyber Security – Simple steps you can take to protect your business| 4thplatform.co.uk

Cyber security is the state or process of protecting and recovering networks, devices, and programs from any type of cyberattack.

Cyberattacks are a constantly changing danger to organisations, employees, and consumers. The attacks are designed to access or destroy sensitive data. They can, in effect, destroy businesses and damage people’s financial and personal lives.

What’s the best defence? A strong cyber security system has multiple layers of protection spread across computers, networks, and programs. However, a strong cyber security system relies not only on cyber defence technology, but also on people within the business making shrewd cyber defence choices.

The good news? You don’t need to be a cyber security specialist to understand and practice cyber defence tactics. The following information will help. You’ll learn more about cyber security and how to help defend yourself against cyber threats. It could help you recognise and avoid threats before they are able to infiltrate your network or device.

Attacks on confidentiality

These include stealing your personal identifying information and your bank account or credit card information. Many attackers will take your information and sell it on the dark web for others to purchase and use.
Attacks on integrity

These attacks consist of personal or enterprise sabotage, and are often called leaks. A cybercriminal will access and release sensitive information for the purpose of exposing the data and influencing the public to lose trust in that organization.
Attacks on availability

The aim of this type of cyberattack is to block users from accessing their own data until they pay a fee or ransom. Typically, a cybercriminal will infiltrate your network and block you from accessing important data, demanding that you pay a ransom. Companies sometimes pay the ransom and fix the cyber vulnerability afterward so that they can avoid halting business activities.

Here are a few types of cyber threats that fall into the three categories listed above:

Social engineering, a type of attack on confidentiality, is the process of psychologically manipulating people into performing actions or giving away information. Phishing attacks are the most common form of social engineering. Phishing attacks usually come in the form of a deceptive email that tricks the user into giving away personal information.

APTs (Advanced Persistent Threats), a type of attack on integrity, are attacks where an unauthorized user infiltrates a network undetected and stays in the network for a long time. The intent of an APT is to steal data and not harm the network. APTs happen most often in sectors with high-value information, such as national defence, manufacturing, and the finance industry.

Malware, or malicious software, is a type of attack on availability. It refers to software that is designed to gain access or damage a computer without the knowledge of the owner. Several common types of malware include spyware, keyloggers, true viruses, and worms.

How to help protect against cyber security attacks

Follow these steps for cyber safety.

Only use trusted sites when providing your personal information. A good rule of thumb is to check the URL. If the site includes “https://,” then it’s a secure site. If the URL includes “http://,” — note the missing “s” — avoid entering sensitive information like your credit card.
Don’t open email attachments or click links in emails from unknown sources. One of the most common ways people are attacked is through emails disguised as being sent by someone you trust.
Always keep your devices updated. Software updates contain important patches to fix security issues. Cyberattackers thrive on outdated devices because they don’t have the most current security software.
Back up your files regularly to prevent cyber security attacks. If you need to wipe your device clean due to a cyberattack, it will help to have your files stored in a safe, separate place.

Cyber security is constantly evolving, which can make it difficult to stay up to date. Staying informed and being cautious online are two of the best ways to help protect yourself and your business. To learn more about cyber security, download the guide below or fill out a contact form.