Internet is a boon for modern generation and businesses, it has transformed everything! Connecting to people across the world has never been this easy as it is today. But do you know this is just one side of the coin the other side is not as pretty as it seems.
It is rightly said wherever there’s opportunity, there’s risk. Internet is like a house in which you live but someone else has the keys. So, before accessing such a place it’s advisable to know the hazards and then only proceed. Here are 10 cyber security threats one should be aware of while using technology:
1. IoT Means More DDoS Attacks
Internet of things is destroying everything especially the Internet. As more and more devices are getting online the threat of Distributed Denial Service Attack is increasing.
IoT devices have a poor network of security that allows hackers to exploit them and bring a website down. DDoS attacks are simple and IoT devices are helping them to spread. Earlier this was not the case but today we have numerous smart devices ranging from smart fridges, TV, phones, cars to lot more help in creating havoc. By getting control over any Internet connected device the hacker can easily perform a DDoS attack.
Also Read: What is BlueBorne Attack and How to Stay Protected
2. Data Theft on Rise
Data has been the king that hackers desperately want to access. The more it is publicizing and contains financial details more it is at risk. Therefore, while storing and data on the Internet one must be cautious. As a data leak can cost you a lot. In 2017 more data was stolen as compared to 2016. So, you can very well imagine that this year things would get more worse.
3. Web Apps are Under Attack
No expertise is required to launch an SQL injection and spread malware or steal data. Web applications are an intelligent way to interact and collect customers information. We use them for subscribing a newsletter, paying bills, filling forms and other tasks. The more we use them more is the risk of cyber security attack. Therefore, before entering any personal and confidential information we should be cautious.
4. Increasing use of Ransomware
Ransomware has become common these days, hackers are asking for release fee in Bitcoin or other cryptocurrency to give access to your data. They are becoming sophisticated and are creating faster malware to earn more in short span.
Also Read: What is Eavesdropping Attack- A Complete Guide
5. Is Biometric a Better Way?
Due to the increasing threat of password being hacked or stolen enterprises, have shifted to biometric access. But do you think it is safe and better than using strong and alphanumeric passwords?
6. Browser Plug-Ins An Easy Pass for Malware
Browser plugins are small codes that add features to browser and support video playback. But the most common of them Flash and Java can easily be exploited by hackers as they have fertile bug grounds. Therefore, while enabling a plugin or using it do check its usage. They are a gate pass for malicious code to get installed into the system.
7. Inside Threats
Employees are the biggest threat for an organization as a careless act performed by them may cost the company a lot. Therefore, before allowing them to access anything online do keep security in check. Nothing can be more dangerous than the inside threat as they are the ones who leave the door open for hackers to exploit the system.
8. Phishing Gets Smarter
Hackers are getting smarter and are creating highly conniving and sophisticated phishing mails to trap users. Making it difficult to identify spam mails from the genuine ones. Usually cyber criminals attach a malicious code to the mail that can execute itself without user’s interference. So, once you open the mail the infection starts spreading and infects other machines on the network.
Also Read: Steps To Protect Your Financial Data
9. Https Will Become a Normal
Soon all sites will use Https: to prove their site is genuine and secure. So, if such a situation arises what will you do? Will you be able to identify the fake sites? In such scenarios, a strong security system and firewall system will help you stay protected.
10. Lack of Expert Help
We think that by running an antivirus program or firewall we are secure but this is not true. An expert help is must as they can can identify the loophole in security and fix them. Therefore, don’t overlook the need of an expert help.
To stay protected, be prepared and think secure, data is valuable and is at stake due to increasing cyber-criminal activities. Hackers infiltrate the network by using malicious code, phishing mails and tricking the user into downloading the malware. Therefore, to stay protected companies should take steps to educate their employees, share information. This will help to patch the system weaknesses and the social collaboration will help to take real time action to defeat any hacking attempt.
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