4 Cyberthreats Businesses Need to Know About
As the internet continues to grow and businesses become increasingly interconnected, data breaches have become more common in recent years. According to a new study, the average cost of a data breach increased 2.6% from 2021 to 2022.* Hackers can now access sensitive information much more quickly than before and then sell that information on the dark web or use it to commit other crimes, such as identity theft.
Data breaches can be a significant problem for businesses. However, understanding the threats and taking precautions can help protect your business. In this blog post, we’ll discuss a few of the threats you need to look out for to safeguard your business.
Don’t let these threats get to your business
Here are some lesser known cyberthreats that you need to be aware of:
Using public Wi-Fi without a VPN (Virtual Private Network)
Public Wi-Fi networks are becoming increasingly common. They offer a convenient way to stay connected when you’re on the go. However, many people don’t realize that using public Wi-Fi without a VPN can be a security risk.
When you connect to a public Wi-Fi network, you open yourself up to potential hacking and cybercrime. Without a VPN, anyone on the same network as you can see what you’re doing online. They can intercept your data and even steal sensitive information.
That’s why it’s essential to use a VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi. A VPN encrypts your data and provides a secure connection, even on public Wi-Fi.
Malware-laden apps
The proliferation of mobile apps has given rise to a new breed of cybercrime: malicious apps that can infect your device with malware. This malicious software can wreak havoc on your device, including stealing your data, vandalizing your files, and causing your device to crash. In some cases, malware even equips hackers to take control of your device remotely.
So, how can you protect yourself from downloading malware-laden apps? The best defense is to be vigilant and research before downloading any app, even from an official store like the App Store or Google Play Store. Check reviews and ratings, and only download apps from developers that you trust.
Juice jacking
As more and more people rely on public charging stations to power their devices, juice jacking has become a serious concern. This type of cyberattack occurs when malware is installed on a charging station, infecting the devices of anyone who plugs in. The attacker can then access the victim’s data.
It’s essential to take some precautions to protect yourself from juice jacking. Only use trusted charging stations and a USB data blocker to keep your device from becoming infected. Additionally, ensure your device is in “charging” mode rather than “data transfer” mode when using a public charging station.
Malicious QR codes
As QR codes become more and more popular, so does the potential for security risks. QR codes offer a convenient way to share information, but attackers can also use them to access your device and data.
Protecting yourself from this attack is vital to be aware of the dangers and take precautions when scanning QR codes. For example, you can use a reputable QR code scanner that checks for malicious content before opening it. You can also avoid scanning QR codes that you don’t trust. By taking these simple steps, you can help keep your data safe from those who would exploit it.
Collaborate to tackle cyberthreats
Partnering with an IT service provider is your best option if you’re looking for comprehensive protection from cyber threats. At Istonish, we offer cybersecurity, backup, compliance, and more to keep your business safe.
We can also help improve your employees’ readiness to deal with cyber threats through security awareness training. This training provides employees with the skills to identify and avoid phishing scams, protect their passwords and detect other types of cyberattacks.
To learn more about our security awareness training program, download our eBook “Security Awareness Training: Your Small Business’s Best Investment” by clicking here.
