Hackers can disrupt your business at any moment. Some cyberthreats cause such severe data loss that companies are forced to shut down. You need to stay alert to new threats in the world of computer security. Here are seven of the biggest threats from 2018.
1. Hacktivists
Hacktivist threats are on the rise. A hacktivist is a person or group that uses hacking for political reasons. They may try to harm a political opponent by exposing damaging information.
Hacktivists are tough to deal with because they act on ideology, not profit. Unlike other hackers, they rarely ask for ransom. This type of activism has grown more accepted over time. Many people now see hacktivism as a form of political protest.
Be Careful
You can lower your risk by avoiding the posting of sensitive material online. If you can’t remove old content, consider staying out of political movements. Protect your reputation by thinking before you share.
2. Botnets as a Service
Botnets have caused problems for years, spreading ransomware and launching DDoS attacks. Now, criminals rent out botnets to others for a fee. Anyone can buy access, even if they lack technical skills. This trend makes botnet attacks more common and accessible.
3. Cyber Warfare
Cyber warfare between nations has become a hot topic. Countries accuse each other of hacking during major events. For example, Russia has faced claims of cyber espionage during Brexit and U.S. elections.
Nation-state hackers have huge resources. If your company becomes a target, you face a much bigger threat than from lone hackers.
4. Sophisticated Malware
Malware used to be the work of hobbyists. Today, organized teams and companies develop and sell malware to the highest bidder. These groups run entire businesses around selling malicious software. As malware becomes more advanced, defending your company gets harder.
5. More Connected Devices
Smart devices like fridges and HVAC systems offer convenience. However, connecting more devices to the internet also increases risk. Hackers can take control of these devices. They could raise your heating bill or spoil your food by shutting off your fridge. If it connects to the internet, it’s a potential target.
6. Ransomware Threats
Ransomware has surged in popularity. Many people still don’t back up their files. Ransomware locks your files and demands payment to unlock them. Sometimes, even paying won’t restore your files. Fortunately, you can defend against ransomware by maintaining regular backups.
Learn more about ransomware here: Ransomware Executive Guide.
7. Social Engineering
Simple hacks can be the most effective. Many attacks succeed because people are tricked into giving up passwords. For example, a hacker might pretend to be IT support and ask you to reset your password.
These attacks bypass security systems by targeting people. Even with strong software, you can still be hacked through clever social engineering tricks. Train your employees to spot phishing attempts and report anything suspicious.
Educate Your Employees
Classic threats like phishing and Trojan horses still work. Firewalls and antivirus software help, but employees remain the weakest link. Train your staff to recognize security threats and report anything unusual. Most alerts will be false alarms, but some will reveal real risks.
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