Top 3 Most Common Cybersecurity Threats

Cybersecurity is a key concern for businesses in today’s digital world. Working from home has become the new norm, in part due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but also due to the advancement of technology. Unfortunately, cybercriminals are taking advantage of this by targeting remote workers and growing organizations. As a Managed Service Provider some of the most common threats we protect against and help remedy are Ransomware, IoT related attacks and Cloud Computing vulnerabilities.

Ransomware

Ransomware is a type of malware that is devised to encrypt files on user devices. The encryption renders data on the systems unusable. Once encrypted, the attackers demand a ransom – or form of payment – in exchange for a decryption key.

There are various methods a user can unknowingly download Ransomware. The most common way to become a Ransomware victim is by opening an attachment in an email. More information about Ransomware and how to prepare yourself can be found here. (CISA.gov)

MSP providers can help to mitigate the effects of Ransomware by providing an offsite backup solution. The offsite backups help prevent the encryption methods employed by malicious parties by ensuring your backups are separate from your onsite systems. Prevention is key!

IoT Attacks

Internet of Things (IoT) is any device that can be connected to the internet. As we work more from home, these devices have become commonplace both for personal use and businesses alike. Unfortunately, due to the popularity of these devices, attacks on the vulnerabilities these present have also become more common.

The Target data breach in December of 2013 is the most known IoT attack. Target used a third-party vendor that employed an IoT device to remotely monitor their Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems. Malicious parties took advantage of the third-party HVAC system’s method to gain access to the Target systems. More about this data breach can be found here. (ComputerWorld.com)

The best way to mitigate the risk of an IoT attack is by setting up secure firewalls and a solid cybersecurity strategy. Done correctly, these protective measures can detect malicious attempts and prevent them from accessing your systems.

Cloud Computing Vulnerabilities

Cloud computing is another technology that has become more popular during the work-from-home era. Cloud computing has allowed companies large and small the ability to grant more mobile access to their employees and their customers.

Unfortunately, this has also allowed those with malicious intent the opportunity to take advantage of these new technologies. These parties can openly attempt to breach any cloud-based system at any time. When these parties are successful in breaching a cloud computing system, it is commonly due to misconfiguration. More information on cloud computing types and their potential risks can be found here. (McAfee.com)

Questions or comments? If you have questions regarding your cybersecurity strategy or about working with Revolution Group, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at 614-212-1101 or [email protected].