Top 5 Cyber Security Threats and the Best Ways to Protect Your Small Business from Them
Cyber security threats and cyber-attacks are becoming prevalent and highly concerning issues right across Australia.
According to the Annual Cyber Threat Report 2022, over 76,000 cybercrime reports were sent to the Australian Government Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) – a number that’s up by nearly 13% compared to the previous financial year.
Research also shows that there was an 81% rise in cyber security incidents between July 2021 and June 2022, with the most targeted sectors involving financial, retail and business services.
As a small business that is starting to grow and reach more clients, you must make cybersecurity a top priority. Having vulnerable systems and less stringent technological defences means you’re at a higher risk of cybercrimes and malicious attacks online.
Fortunately, there are ways to keep your business safe against cyber security threats.
What are the top cyber security threats to small businesses?
Cyber security threats can disrupt your operations, damage your public reputation and affect your overall finances as a business.
At Centrix, we believe that building awareness is the first step of defence against these common cyber security threats.
So, to safeguard your business, we’ve compiled the top 5 cyber security threats and some solutions you can use to protect your assets, operations and customers from them.
- Malware
Malware or malicious software is developed by cyber criminals to intrude and damage your computers and systems. Some examples of malware are Trojan viruses, worms, spyware, ransomware and adware.
Through malware that comes in the form of downloads, spam emails or infected devices, hackers gain access to your network and steal sensitive information.
How to protect your small business from malware
To prevent malware from infiltrating your computers, systems and network, your business must be equipped with reliable technological defences. You can start by installing antivirus and antimalware software, as well as keeping your operating systems and other software always updated.
At Centrix, we have Firewall & Networking Security solutions to ensure small businesses like yours remain safe against attacks and intrusions from multiple entry points and users.
- Ransomware
Ransomware encrypts data, files or devices, preventing you then from accessing and using them unless you pay a hefty ransom (hence the name) to the cybercriminals.
Aside from its financial implications, ransomware often causes downtime that negatively impacts your business’ productivity levels.
How to protect your small business from ransomware
Having a Cloud-based backup system is key to mitigating possible data loss from ransomware attacks. Centrix offers Cloud Backup & Disaster Recovery solutions that continuously safeguard your data and other digital assets without causing any interruption to your business.
- Phishing
Phishing attacks occur when a malicious user pretends to be a trusted contact, enticing people to provide confidential information or give access to sensitive files. Attackers use emails and text messages that seem credible and legit to trick victims.
How to protect your small business from phishing
Prevention is always better than cure, especially when identity theft and financial loss are at stake. At Centrix, Web and Email Security is part of our multi-layered security approach. We make sure that phishing emails won’t make their way into your employees’ inboxes.
- Weak or Easily Guessed Passwords
Weak or easily guessed passwords enable hackers to break in and attack. This leads to important data and systems being breached, putting your business at risk.
How to protect your small business from weak passwords
One good way to address this kind of threat is by optimising Multi-factor Authentication and SSO that enable users to undergo additional security checks before they can sign in. You can also encourage your staff to use strong passwords that combine uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers and symbols.
- Insider Threats
Insider threats refer to the security risks posed by current or former employees, business contractors, associates or third-party vendors who misuse or abuse their access to your organisation’s data, network, systems and other digital assets.
Whether it’s intentional or due to carelessness and ignorance, their actions may cause your business to deal with theft, fraud, sabotage of networks and systems, as well as lost customers’ trust.
How to protect your small business from insider threats
Here at Centrix, we provide Cyber Security Awareness Training for organisations of all sizes. Through proper training, we promote accountability amongst your team, ensuring that each employee is aware of their duties and responsibilities when it comes to your company’s cyber security.
In this digital age where your team are spending most of their time online, your organisation must be equipped with the right tools, knowledge and technologies to maintain the safety of your data and systems.
With the cyber security experts at Centrix by your side, you can be more confident that you are protected from fraudulent activities that may put your brand and your valued customers in danger.
Let Centrix support your IT and cyber security needs
Our team at Centrix is always ready – we help small businesses all the way up to corporate organisations succeed by managing, supporting and protecting critical IT infrastructure.
Backed by our extensive knowledge and expertise, Centrix is here to assist your organisation with comprehensive IT Connectivity and Collaboration Service Packages, Cloud IT, Cybersecurity Protection, Managed IT Services and other IT Solutions.
So, are you ready to thrive in today’s digital landscape?
To learn more about our Managed IT services, book an IT Health Check or contact us today.