FAQs about cybersecurity covering cyber threats, data protection, phishing, malware, and network security. Get clear answers and expert tips to help protect your systems, data, and online privacy.
Cyberattacks can result in financial losses and data theft, as well as sanctions from the law, and reputational harm. Businesses keep customer data financial records, customer data, as well as intellectual properties that cybercriminals are able to target. A solid cybersecurity plan protects against phishing, ransomware, insider threats, as well as malware.
The most commonly reported cyber threats are:
Phishing attacks
Malware and ransomware
Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks
Man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks
Credential stuffing
Insider dangers
Understanding the threats that exist can help companies increase their security measures.
You can secure your network by:
Use strong firewalls
Installing anti-malware and antivirus software
Update your systems and patches
Enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA)
Monitoring network activity
These cybersecurity best practices can help you prevent unauthorized access.
A data compromise is when an unauthorized individual gains access to confidential or sensitive information. Personal data, financial information, or login credentials can be included. Weak passwords, software vulnerabilities, and phishing attacks are often the cause of data breaches.
Phishing involves malicious actors sending fake emails, messages or websites that appear legitimate. The aim is to trick the user into divulging passwords, credit-card information, or download malware.
Malware is malicious software that is designed to damage or disrupt systems and gain unauthorised access. Some common types include viruses, trojans, and worms.
Ransomware encrypts or locks files and then demands payment to unlock them. It is spread by phishing emails or malicious software.
Multifactor Authentication (MFA) is an authentication system that requires at least two verification methods to be used before access can be granted. This includes:
You know what you want to do (password).
You have something (security token).
You are what you are (biometrics).
MFA reduces the risk for unauthorized access.
Small businesses can improve their cybersecurity by:
Cyber threats: training employees
Password managers and strong passwords
All accounts can be enabled to use MFA
Regularly backing up your data
Use secure Wi-Fi networks
These steps can help to reduce the risk of cyberattacks.
Endpoint Security protects devices like laptops, desktops and smartphones from cyber threats. The software uses firewalls, antivirus, encryption and monitoring tools to protect each connected device.
A Firewall is an advanced security system which monitors and filters network traffic. It allows safe connections while blocking unauthorized access. Firewalls are either hardware-based, or software-based.
Cybersecurity audits are recommended at least once per year or more often for industries with high risk. Regular audits can help identify vulnerabilities, incorrect configurations and compliance gaps.
Cybersecurity is concerned with protecting networks and systems from cyber attacks. Information Security is concerned with protecting data, both physical and digital.
How to prevent phishing attacks
Never click suspicious links
Verify email senders
Email filtering is a useful tool
MFA can be enabled
Educate employees regularly
This reduces the risk of malware and credential theft.
