When it comes to data integrity of a business, cybersecurity can never be stressed enough. Information regarding cybersecurity has become more shared and advanced and cyber criminals are constantly looking for new ways to steal data from businesses, via attacking them online. Unfortunately, they tend to be widely successful at this.
Because of this, cybersecurity is absolutely necessary for growing businesses today. Cybersecurity provides security measures to protect computers, hardware, software, and all other forms of data from cyber attacks. In order to set up an effective system, businesses should analyze their existing systems and plan out their strategy. Because an organization’s data is so essential to its core, any vulnerable aspects could be exploited and lead to disastrous results.
In order to be proactive about fighting off threats, users need to constantly be adapting to current trends. This is because cybersecurity threats are always lurking. Continuously monitoring data and networks, as well as reassessing those components is absolutely crucial to preventing breaches. While all of those are components that can help prevent cyber attacks, there are several industries that are more vulnerable to cyber criminals:
Retail
Since they hold valuable customer data, retail businesses are more vulnerable to cyber attacks. Apparently, cyber criminals tend to be more structured and organized which means that retail organizations must reinforce all data by investing in firewalls and security applications, to prevent hackers from accessing sensitive data. In addition to that, retail organizations are moving to online platforms, in order to enhance sales. Because of this, retailers who sell online and accept online payments have more of a chance of being exposed to cyber attacks.
Finance & Insurance
Because finance and insurance industries hold significant amounts of sensitive data, such as bank account details and financial information, these organizations have a very high chance of being exposed to cyber attacks. If that information is obtained, because of how sensitive it is, it becomes costly and time-consuming to recover and recreate lost data. In addition to that, they tend to go unreported and it could negatively impact their reputation in their respective industries.
Education
Many educational institutions are required to store the personal information of students and parents, such as social security numbers and banking and financial information. This source of information is highly confidential and is, therefore, at greater risk of cyber attacks.
Because of the extent of organizations that are at risk of data and security breaches, it’s important for businesses to understand the danger that exists. Organizations must be aware of things such as phishing emails, vulnerable software, and malware. Phishing emails are attempts to get personal information, such as usernames and passwords, through seemingly trustworthy sources. They often direct users to “branded” fake websites where they might provide personal information, unknowingly.
Weak software allows for vulnerability to programs that can be easily accessed by hackers. Malware is a software that’s designed to cause damage to computers and networks. They have the ability to spread and attack multiple users, once they gain access to your network. In order to prevent such things, qualified IT professional must be utilized, and employees must be trained to recognize security risks. If such steps are taken, the cybersecurity of a business will be significantly increased.
Clarus Communications has been serving the St. Louis area since 2001 and can assist your business in ensuring that your network and data are secure. We’ll work with you to assess your needs and recommend a solution that is custom tailored for your business. If you would like more information about Microsoft Office 365, click here or call us at 855-801-6700.