Small to midsize businesses have long been a target for hackers. Attacks are incredibly costly in terms of cost, time, and reputation. Some businesses don’t even survive an attack and are forced to shut down. In this post we identify 8 threats and ways you can protect your business.
8 types of cyberattacks:
Malware – short for “malicious software,” malware is software designed to disrupt or damage a device or network. Hackers are attempting to gain unauthorized access. Common types of malware include ransomware, spyware, viruses, worms and Trojans.
Ransomware – this is a type of malware where hackers demand a ransom. It generally locks a user out of their device and demands money to regain access; or threatens to leak private information unless a ransom amount is paid.
Phishing – a popular method of attack, phishing is when hackers attempt to gain sensitive information through credible looking emails, text messages, or other communications. Hackers are generally looking to obtain log-in information or financial information such as credit card numbers or banking information.
Man in the middle (MitM) attack – this is generally done when a transaction is completed through an unsecured network, such as a public Wi-Fi network. Hackers are inserting themselves in the middle of a transfer to steal information.
DDoS or Distributed denial-of-service attack – hackers attempt to disrupt the normal flow of traffic to a server or network by overwhelming it with requests. Hackers are trying to take down a website or system and prevent legitimate users from accessing information. Alabama state government recently suffered a denial-of-service attack which blocked law enforcement from accessing info, such as if a driver had a warrant out for their arrest or a vehicle was stolen.
APT – an advanced persistent threat describes when hackers gain unauthorized access to a network for an undetected period. Hackers are trying to steal highly sensitive data.
Zero-day attack – this is when a hacker exploits an unknown flaw in software or systems. They can potentially go undiscovered for a long period.
SQL injection – hackers execute malicious SQL statements to control a database server behind a website. Hackers can then modify databases, download files, steal information and manipulate devices on the network.
Protect your business
Your business can take a number of steps to help protect itself including securing networks, providing firewall security, updating software, training employees, regularly backing up data, implementing multifactor authentication and limiting user access.
Insight BTR, a business IT service provider serving the Madison, WI area, offers customized solutions so you can be confident your business is protected from cyberattacks. Contact us at (608) 661-0750, email us at info@insightbtr.com or schedule a free consultation at https://www.insightbtr.com/schedule-a-consultation/
