The 5 most common security risks to your IT and how to address them

Security breaches often stem from a handful of common threats, both internal and external. Identify the five most IT security risks and learn how to address them effectively to keep your systems safe.

Accidental malware installation

Malware, also known as malicious software, is software created that causes damage to computers, servers, or networks. It ranges from viruses and worms, to ransomware and spyware, and is capable of stealing sensitive data or causing significant harm to systems. Malware can be inadvertently installed through various means, often by downloading software from untrusted sources. For example, torrent websites may prompt users to download software for proper functionality, only to include malware as part of the installation. Additionally, hackers may send emails with infected attachments or links to malicious websites disguised to look official.

You can avoid malware installation by implementing the following best practices:

  • Download only from trusted sources: Ensure that any software is from a reputable website. Be vigilant about the URL, as cybercriminals often create fake sites with slightly altered addresses, such as “www.g00gle.com” instead of “www.google.com.”
  • Inspect file names: Malware often masquerades as legitimate files, using similar names with slight variations. If in doubt, do not download the file and, if it’s from someone you know, verify its authenticity.
  • Scan before opening: Scan all downloaded files with antivirus software before accessing them.
  • Avoid risky websites: Steer clear of torrent sites, adult content, or platforms that stream pirated videos, as these often harbor malware.

Unauthorized admin access

Many users operate their computers with administrator privileges, allowing them to install software and change settings. If a hacker gains access to an admin account, they can control the system entirely, potentially exposing sensitive data and network integrity.

There are two key ways to mitigate this risk:

  • Restrict admin rights: Grant administrative access only to users according to their responsibilities. By restricting admin privileges, you can minimize the impact of a compromised account.
  • Integrate antivirus software: Utilize antivirus software and regularly update it to recognize new threats. Furthermore, routine scans can help recognize potential threats early, providing an additional layer of security against malware that may exploit admin access.

Physical access to your computer

Allowing physical access to your computer can lead to serious security issues, such as malware infections or data theft. For example, if you leave your computer unlocked, someone could easily insert an infected USB drive or even reset your password, exposing your system and sensitive information.

To enhance your computer’s physical security, consider these practices:

  • Use strong passwords: Always secure your computer with a strong, unique password.
  • Lock your computer: Make it a habit to lock, turn off, or log off your device whenever you step away, preventing unauthorized access to your files.
  • Disable unused drives and ports: If you don’t use certain drives, such as CD/DVD or ports like USB, disable them in your system settings. This reduces the risk of someone using removable media to introduce malware or steal data.

Insider threats

Insider threats are internal security risks that most often originate from employees. These risks can arise from malicious intent, such as a disgruntled employee deleting crucial data, or from negligence, where a worker inadvertently introduces malware. Both scenarios can lead to significant damage to your IT systems.

To mitigate insider threats, you should restrict access to files and systems based on each employee’s role, similar to addressing unauthorized admin access. For example, there is no reason a member of the marketing team should have unrestricted access to confidential financial data. Additionally, regularly review and revoke any unnecessary access rights (such as when an employee transfers to another department or leaves the company) to further minimize potential harm.

Compromised passwords

Weak passwords are a leading cause of security breaches, with 35% of respondents in a Forbes Advisor survey identifying them as the source of their data breaches. Beyond setting easily guessed passwords, individuals often recycle them across several accounts, increasing their vulnerability to a major security breach.

To strengthen password security, follow these recommendations:

  • Create strong, unique passwords: For each account, choose complex passwords that include a combination of capital and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Also, consider using passphrases instead of passwords. Passphrases are easier to remember than complex passwords but are significantly harder to crack, providing enhanced security without the burden of memorization.
  • Implement multifactor authentication (MFA): Enhance your security by requiring verification methods in addition to your password, such as a fingerprint or a one-time code.

Understanding the most common security risks and incorporating the right security strategies will help secure your business IT against both external and internal threats.

If you are looking for an expert to help you find the best solutions for your business talk to GCInfotech about a free technology assessment

Published with consideration from TechAdvisory.org SOURCE

/by

3 Ways Nonprofits Can Strengthen Their Cybersecurity in 2025

To stay protected, nonprofits must adopt zero-trust models, use artificial intelligence to detect vulnerabilities and run threat modeling.

Nonprofits are attractive targets for cybercrime because of the sensitive nature of data they manage. These organizations also have tight budgets and may lack a full-time cybersecurity chief on staff, which only increases their vulnerability to attacks. And with the average global cost of a data breach costing nearly $5 million, according to a 2024 report by IBM, there’s even more reason for IT leaders to take proactive action.

Here are three ways that nonprofits can strengthen their cybersecurity in 2025.

1. Adopt A Zero-Trust Model for Enhanced Security Verification

Cyberattacks occur so frequently that IT leaders must assume their environments may have already been breached. This defensive posture of cyber resilience is key.

A zero-trust model cultivates this further by requiring that all users and devices be authenticated and continuously validated via tools such as identity and access management and multifactor authentication: Never trust, always verify.

“With data spread across multiple services, devices, applications and people, it’s not enough to slap a password onto something or set up a firewall,” writes Remy Champion, a senior manager on Okta’s Tech for Good team. “Nonprofit organizations need stronger protection, and zero trust can help.”

Zero trust is not a single solution. It’s a cybersecurity architecture that takes time to build and mature. Teams can work with an expert tech partner to track progress toward zero-trust maturity.

“Successful integration of zero-trust strategies requires a cultural shift at every level of your organization,” write CDW experts John Candillo and David Lund. This starts with identity and access management but extends to data governance, backup and recovery, and securing complex cloud infrastructures.

“When done effectively, zero trust can help leaders make more strategic investments in security and more naturally achieve regulatory compliance,” CDW experts write in a separate company blog.

2. Bolster Threat Detection Checks With AI

With the dizzying volume and velocity of daily cyberthreats, it is humanly impossible for IT teams to monitor all potential risks. CISOs need superhuman capabilities, which they can find in artificial intelligence.

AI tools can help nonprofits stay ahead of evolving cyberthreats by analyzing vast volumes of data in real time, all with minimal human intervention.

“In contrast to the traditional threat detection approach, the AI-based approach can detect threats earlier in the attack cycle,” SentinelOne notes in a company blog post. “One of the most interesting features of AI threat detection is that it can automate the entire process of detecting threats, alerting security teams, and preventing additional threats.”

Teams can also train AI models to proactively remediate potential risks and scan for unusual behavior patterns. The ability of AI and machine learning to evolve with threats is especially valuable to IT leaders as bad actors modify their attack strategies.

3. Test Out Defense Strategies With Threat Modeling

Threat modeling allows IT leaders to reverse-engineer a solution to an attack. It helps teams identify what a hack might look like and create a full response plan with steps to remediate.

“It’s a lot like a fire drill, but it’s a disaster recovery drill,” Nick Suda, security solution specialist at CDW, told BizTech.

“Just as drills prepare people for emergencies, threat modeling prepares businesses for cyberthreats by asking teams to devise fast response plans and defensive strategies,” Suda writes. “It’s also a way to simulate real-time stress levels and intensity so that employees know what to expect during an attack.”

The exercise starts with identifying the most essential assets worth protecting, such as devices, data and personnel. Next, identify attack vectors, including entry points and attack methods. Finally, create hypothetical scenarios that test the system’s defenses and the organization’s response plan. With this information, IT leaders can develop a cybersecurity playbook.

“Threat modeling is not a one-time activity; it is a regular exercise,” Suda writes. “IT leaders should run these drills routinely to get familiar and note any areas that need improvement.”

Contact our team of experts to learn more about developing a comprehensive cybersecurity training program for your business.

If you are looking for an expert to help you find the best solutions for your business talk to GCInfotech about a free technology assessment

Published with consideration from BizTech SOURCE

/by

Mastering Outlook in Microsoft 365

Are you using Outlook in Microsoft 365 to its full potential? With so many powerful features, it’s easy to overlook tools that can make a big difference. This guide highlights Outlook’s key features that can boost your efficiency and keep your inbox organized.

Classic Outlook vs. new Outlook

Microsoft offers two versions of Outlook: classic Outlook and new Outlook. The former is the current version bundled with Microsoft 365, while the latter is intended to replace the built-in Windows Mail and Calendar apps.

Although the new Outlook is available for testing, it currently lacks some key business features. So for now, it’s best to stick with classic Outlook, which Microsoft will support until at least 2029

Key features to improve your Outlook experience in Microsoft 365

Take full advantage of the following Outlook features in Microsoft 365:

Customizing the ribbon toolbar

Outlook’s ribbon toolbar, which provides access to various features, comes in two styles: Simplified and Classic. The Simplified Ribbon, the default interface, offers a sleek design that highlights frequently used tools for a more streamlined experience. Meanwhile, the Classic Ribbon — familiar to long-time Outlook users — offers a complete view of all available options.

To switch between these views, click the downward-pointing caret (˅) in the bottom right corner of the Ribbon and select either Simplified Ribbon or Classic Ribbon. You can also customize the Ribbon by selecting File > Options > Customize Ribbon, where you can add or remove tabs and commands.

To hide the Ribbon for more screen space, press Ctrl + F1 or click the caret at the far right to toggle between different display modes.

Using the search bar beyond finding emails

Outlook’s search bar does more than just locate emails. It also helps you access Outlook functions quickly. This feature replaces the Tell Me function found in Outlook 2016 and 2019.

To use Outlook’s search bar, either click on the search box or press Alt + Q, then type a command such as “filter email” to filter messages by unread status, attachments, importance, and more. Compared to navigating through menus, using the search bar is a faster, more efficient way to access less common features. Plus, the search bar remembers your previous searches, making it easy to find your most-used tools.

Researching without leaving Outlook

Outlook allows you to perform web searches directly within the app, eliminating the need to switch between windows. Just highlight a word or phrase in any email, right-click, and select Search. Outlook will then use Bing to display definitions, Wikipedia entries, images, and other web results in a pane on the right. Take note that you need to enable Microsoft’s Intelligent Services to use this built-in search feature.

Enabling Focused Inbox

Struggling with email overload? Focused Inbox is here to help. Powered by artificial intelligence, this feature organizes your inbox by separating essential emails from less critical ones, letting you sift through the noise.

To turn on Focused Inbox, go to the View tab and click Show Focused Inbox. Outlook will create two tabs: Focused (for high-priority messages) and Other (for general emails). Train Focused Inbox by moving messages between tabs or setting rules for specific senders.

If Focused Inbox doesn’t suit your workflow, you can disable it anytime by selecting View > Show Focused Inbox.

Using the Archive folder for a cleaner inbox

Rather than deleting emails, try using the Archive feature to clear your inbox while keeping messages easily accessible. Archiving is perfect for emails you’ve already addressed but may need to reference later.

There are three ways to archive emails. After selecting the emails you want to archive, you can click Archive on the Home tab, press the Backspace key, or drag them into the Archive folder. You can retrieve archived emails anytime by browsing the Archive folder or using the Search function. If you’d like to move an email to another folder, just drag and drop it to your desired location.

Attaching files the smart way

Outlook simplifies file attachments by displaying your 12 most recently used files. Simply click the Attach icon and choose from the suggested list. You can choose to attach the file itself or include a link to it, which is especially useful for files stored in the cloud. If the file you want to attach isn’t in the recent list, you can browse your PC or web locations such as OneDrive and SharePoint.

With these Outlook features, you can organize your inbox, automate repetitive tasks, and improve your productivity. For more tips on getting the most out of Outlook, Microsoft 365, and other tech tools, turn to our IT experts.

/by

How Much Cybersecurity Is Enough?

Cybersecurity investments can be infinite: Here’s how to find your floor.

You can make unlimited investments in cybersecurity and still never achieve that nirvana of being “totally secure.” At the same time, service interruptions or losing customer data are so detrimental to your company’s reputational trust and financial bottom line that security is paramount. So, just how much time, effort, and money should your organization invest to ensure it’s secure?

Because cybersecurity perfection is elusive, it’s important to first determine your floor–the minimum amount of security your organization needs to meet your base-level requirements. These should include:

  • Recoverability of data and systems should a catastrophic breach occur
  • Meeting foundational security best practices for current threats, such as employing multi-factor authentication (MFA), deep packet inspection, lateral movement defenses, stringent password hygiene, and security operations center services/endpoint detection and response tools
  • Adequate security to meet ethical responsibilities (and be able to demonstrate due diligence in) protecting organizational/customer data
  • Meeting all regulatory requirements around data protection and privacy, pertaining to your specific industry and organization

Recoverability: The importance of backups

In our experience, few companies understand that backups are one of the most important security controls for an organization’s future. All breaches end with data exfiltration, backup/mass destruction, or both. To disrupt the breach pattern, organizations must first assume it is impossible to prevent all breaches. Threat actors target backups for encryption or destruction 93 percent of the time in attacks like ransomware, so it’s essential to ensure you can recover without resorting to paying ransoms (because even ransom payments don’t guarantee recovery).

Prioritize having stringent controls within and around your backups while also ensuring that threat actors cannot move laterally in your network to access, damage, or destroy these data stores. Also take great care that these safeguards are well-orchestrated, secure, resilient, redundant, and complete, which protects against the risk of total loss. Backups must also be “immutable,” meaning incapable of being changed, deleted, or moved outside of set retention policies or strict access procedures.

Protect sensitive data and meet regulations

Every company has–at a minimum–an ethical obligation to protect the data they hold in trust about their employees, customers, partners, and operations. Law firms must protect their clients’ private and sensitive legal case information; healthcare organizations must maintain patient data privacy; critical infrastructure and government entities are the custodians of highly sensitive data, the loss of which can have serious consequences for people’s lives and national defense.

Most industries also have a varying number of legal obligations to protect data. Regulatory frameworks like HIPAA, GDPR, FedRAMP, and others outline standards that applicable companies must meet to ensure data security and privacy. The cybersecurity rules adopted in July 2023 by the SEC further mandate additional governance, policy, and process requirements for publicly traded companies, holding C-level officers accountable. Your organization should meet applicable requirements and be able to demonstrate due diligence against ethical goals and frameworks.

Insurance carriers and clients may also dictate minimum security requirements.

How can you meet your minimum requirements?

The key to security efficiency is understanding how breaches progress, including tactics and patterns (“breach context”), and then working to disrupt the breach context with highly prioritized investments and efforts.

There is a pattern to breach progression: The attacker compromises credentials; creates persistent network access; elevates access; and then moves laterally in the environment to execute malicious acts (including exfiltrating data, encrypting, and/or destroying backups).

Effective security requires moving backwards in the chain. First, ensure that your backups are impenetrable and recoverable. Next, secure systems so that lateral movement is impossible (by rigorous application of MFA on all administrative controls). Then, focus on locking down credentials and endpoint access (and so on).

To keep this process scalable, it is important to do all these tasks with full knowledge of the tactics, techniques, and procedures of today’s threat actors–how they are compromising organizations today in real-world breaches–so you can prioritize your efforts and focus your dollars. Security frameworks like NIST and many organizational security programs are too blind to current threat patterns, tactics, and methods to be effective. By focusing on defending against in-use threat tactics and patterns, companies can hone their efforts. It’s equally important to only buy tools and solutions you or a third-party team have the skills and breadth to fully utilize, rather than purchasing expensive and complicated tools that sit idle or underutilized.

Achieve a security program that’s just the right size

Most people in IT and security understand you can’t create perfect security. But with knowledge of threat actor tactics, as they change daily, IT teams can disrupt the breach pattern at every stage and achieve relevant, timely defenses where they are the most vulnerable. While access to real-time threat actor data can be challenging, some managed security services providers can help. Coupled with a solid focus on meeting regulations for your specific industry, you can arrive at a right-sized, focused security program.

Contact our team of experts to learn more about developing a comprehensive cybersecurity training program for your business.

If you are looking for an expert to help you find the best solutions for your business talk to GCInfotech about a free technology assessment

Published with consideration from Inc.com SOURCE

/by
Decryptors
,

You’re Not Imagining It: Phishing Attacks Are Rampant

Does it feel like your inbox is constantly bombarded by phishing scams? You’re not imagining it; phishing emails saw a dramatic uptick in the first half of 2024, a trend expected to be matched in the second half of the year.

Phishing Emails Are Laying Siege to Your Inbox

A report from security research firm Egress found a massive 28 percent increase in phishing emails between April 1st and June 30th, 2024, compared to January 1st and March 31st, with millennials being the most targeted demographic.

The constant rise in phishing emails is likely not a surprise to you, even considering seasonal phishing trends that attempt to use specific events to trick us. But what might be more of a surprise is that in some phishing campaigns, a malicious attachment is no longer the preferred method of catching you out.

Egress found that the number of phishing emails using a malicious attachment dropped by around 30 percent from 2021 to 2024 while phishing hyperlinks grew to become the most popular phishing method. The research puts this change down to a few key changes in security practices, but in short, most folks know about malicious attachments, and organizations have gone to great lengths to block them. Whereas it’s easier to mask a malicious hyperlink and slip through malware and phishing detection tools.

Impersonation Phishing Scams Are Also Rampant

My inbox receives its fair share of faceless, nameless phishing attempts, but there are also slightly better-quality impersonation phishing attempts. Egress calls these impersonation phishing attacks “commodity” attacks, but it’s just a new name for the same threat: “mass-produced, malicious campaigns that typically mimic spam by impersonating brands on a large scale.”

Between January 1st and August 31st, 2024, over a quarter of phishing emails impersonated brands, with a further 16 percent attempting to impersonate the recipient’s company (as part of spear phishing campaigns). As you might expect, the most impersonated brands are the biggest in the world, with Adobe, Microsoft, DHL, and others topping the lists.

But scammers are taking impersonation phishing to the next level, too. Instead of firing out millions of emails and hoping for a hit, some use multi-channel attacks to create a stronger illusion. In one example, Egress found scammers sending a phishing email impersonating Evri (a UK courier service), then following up the email with a malicious SMS (known as a smishing attack). The combination of messaging from a single source using related terms, tracking numbers, and so on is much harder to ignore than a random phishing email or SMS.

How to Spot Phishing Emails and Keep Your Inbox Safe

Egress’ findings are backed up separate research from Abnormal Security, who’s H2 2024 Email Threat Report saw a bonkers 350 percent increase in phishing attacks from 2023 to 2024.

And with the majority of these phishing scams attempting to exploit legitimate domains and email services and impersonate global businesses, it’s important to take a moment to familiarize yourself with how to spot a phishing email.

  • Unofficial Email Addresses That Look Legitimate: Phishers often use email addresses that closely resemble those of reputable organizations. For example, they might use “support@yourbank-secure.com” instead of the official “support@yourbank.com.” Always verify the sender’s address carefully.
  • Generic Greetings and Lack of Personalization: Legitimate companies usually address you by name. Phishing emails often use generic salutations like “Dear Customer,” indicating they don’t have your personal details.
  • Urgent or Threatening Language: Scammers create a sense of urgency to prompt immediate action, such as claiming your account will be suspended unless you verify the information. Be cautious of emails pressuring you to act quickly.
  • Suspicious Links or Attachments: Phishing emails may contain links that appear legitimate but direct you to fraudulent websites. Hover over links to see the actual URL before clicking, and avoid downloading unexpected attachments.
  • Poor Grammar and Spelling Errors: Many phishing emails contain noticeable grammatical mistakes or awkward phrasing, which can be a red flag. Professional organizations typically proofread their communications.
  • Unsolicited Attachments: Be wary of unexpected email attachments, especially if they prompt you to enable macros or contain executable files, as they may install malware on your device.
  • Mismatched URLs: Ensure that the URL in the email matches the legitimate website’s address. Phishers often use URLs with slight misspellings or additional words to deceive users.

With these tips, you’ll spot heaps more phishing emails and boost your security.

If you are looking for an expert to help you find the best solutions for your business talk to GCInfotech about a free technology assessment

Published with consideration from MakeUseOf.com SOURCE

/by

Exploring the risks and benefits of password managers

In recent years, password managers have become an indispensable asset for individuals and organisations, fortifying their IT infrastructure. However, while they deliver unparalleled convenience by securely storing and auto-populating login details and generating robust, unique passwords, they’re not without vulnerabilities.

For example, a Google advisory published this year highlighted a concerning flaw where several password managers could be deceived into auto-filling credentials on unauthorized sites. This scenario serves as a pressing reminder that risk often shadows convenience for companies and users alike. It’s crucial to understand these vulnerabilities and maintain constant vigilance, especially concerning website auto-fill features.

The dual edges of password managers

Password managers are sophisticated applications designed to store an extensive database of a user’s passwords, making the challenging task of remembering complex credentials a thing of the past. The primary key to this vault is a singular master password. Upon its input, users gain access to all their passwords within the manager.

Many of these utilities have automatic password generators, churning out complex credentials on demand. They offer the advantage of autofill capabilities, eliminating the manual chore of copying credentials – an advantage especially valuable for mobile device users.

However, given the potential vulnerabilities of the hosting servers, utilizing online password managers pose risks of their own. Hence, these tools considerably elevate security standards but don’t offer absolute invulnerability.

The pitfalls of automatic auto-filling

Though conceived for bolstering security, password managers auto-fill functionalities can inadvertently populate credentials into dubious or malicious websites.

Cybercriminals deceive these managers by skillfully manipulating website components or crafting persuasive phishing sites. This becomes a greater issue when users don’t put in their due diligence to ascertain the site’s authenticity and instead lean too heavily on the auto-fill feature. Such negligence could inadvertently hand over their credentials to adversaries, leading to potential account breaches.

Moreover, Google’s advisory in January unveiled that several password managers were susceptible to mistakenly auto-filling credentials on untrustworthy pages, posing a tangible risk of account breaches for users.

Specifically, Safari browsers, and extensions, such as Bitwarden and DashLane, were identified as potentially auto-filling login details within forms embedded in sandboxed iFrames. Fortunately, by the advisory’s release, these flaws had been addressed.

Understanding password managers

In light of these revelations, our security research team undertook comprehensive tests on prevalent browsers and password managers, evaluating their responses to same-origin and cross-origin iFrames, notably those unsandboxed.

Our observations highlighted Chrome and Firefox’s robust security stance – neither auto-filled credentials nor presented the option. Contrastingly, the Edge browser did auto-fill the username or email field, although it left the password field untouched.

For password managers, Passbolt and 1Password emerged as frontrunners in security, refraining from both auto-filling and offering the option to users. BitWarden and LastPass, whilst adopting a different approach, present users with a precautionary prompt when credentials may be forwarded to a divergent domain. This pivotal prompt allows users to auto-fill or decline, even in unsandboxed cross-origin iFrames.

Secure password management not only relies on users choosing strong passwords but also using due diligence when choosing a password manager and utilizing its functions. We strongly recommend users disable any auto-fill features and only manually trigger the feature when users are confident that the form presented is legitimate and should be filled.

Best practices for a robust password

Password security is paramount, not only for individual users but for the broader integrity of databases. While protective mechanisms can counteract some user lapses, individuals remain particularly vulnerable when employing weak passwords. So, what constitutes a robust password?

1. Incorporate alphanumeric characters: While recent studies suggest that simply adding upper and lowercase letters might not drastically enhance password strength, their inclusion, even marginally, can fortify defences. 

2. Embrace length: One of the most effective strategies is lengthening your password. Extended character sequences significantly challenge recovery attempts. Familiarise yourself with the latest methods advocating for comprehensive passwords. 

3. Integrate symbols: Current research underlines the effectiveness of symbols. Their inclusion proves more potent than switching between upper and lowercase letters. 

4. Prioritise unpredictability: Crafting unconventional passwords is key. Avoid the temptation of dictionary words or predictable sequences. Aim for originality, confounding potential intruders.

By adhering to these principles, users can significantly reduce their vulnerability in the digital sphere. Password management services require a two-way relationship. It’s important we don’t rely solely on this advanced technology and instead remain judicious and proactive in our online conduct. Despite being formidable allies in online security, they are not without their intricacies. Understanding the nuances and potential hazards linked to auto-fill features is central to user protection. We advocate for a more cautious stance – disable the automatic auto-fill function and opt for a manual trigger instead. Users should activate auto-fill exclusively when they are certain of the form’s authenticity.

If you are looking for an expert to help you find the best solutions for your business talk to GCInfotech about a free technology assessment

Published with consideration from TechRadar Pro

/by
,

5 ways to improve email security

With email being the biggest business productivity tool out there, it’s no surprise that it’s also the main vehicle for cybercrime. Email phishing is the most common type of online exploitation, which grew by 173% in Q3 of 2023 compared to the previous quarter of the same year!

Google blocks about 100 million phishing emails every single day. That’s a huge number for just one platform. Most of us suffer from email overload, but it’s also the medium which feels safe and secure. There’s something about email that feels personal, it’s addressed to us and is now in our virtual – and physical – space. Which is probably why it’s such a successful tool for phishing.

Often we’re responding or taking action on an email in a rush. A quick email reply before lunch break, or rushing to a meeting. It’s those that catch us unawares. Various recent studies have looked into what causes the bulk of data breaches, and unfortunately, it’s us, users. Some say it’s about 88%, whereas others put the number closer to 95% of data breaches are caused by human error.

Here are five tactics and tools to help strengthen your organization’s IT security on the email front:

1. Employee education

Most of us are generally overwhelmed with emails. And often we respond in a rush, trusting that the email is from a reliable source, bearing honest information. Taking that for granted is exactly what cyber-criminals rely on. This is why an employee education and awareness program is absolutely crucial when it comes to internet security. Even the most savvy technology users get caught out, because criminals have one job, and that’s to catch us in a brief moment of unawareness or to make victims of the ignorant.

While it seems insignificant, it’s things like checking sender email addresses, opening attachments with caution, or checking links before, that could halt a data breach. Seemingly obvious, it’s those things that are at the heart of email phishing scams.

2. The wolf in CEO’s clothing

More and more, the Chief Executive of a company is targeted by hackers. Often, the CEO’s IT profile has access to all data systems, so it’s the most valuable access point. When executives are used for phishing, it’s known as ‘whaling’. Impersonating the CEO or top brass is also a brilliantly simple method to trick employees into providing information and access. Who’s going to say no to the CEO? Hackers will create a fake email account and request information from appropriate staff members.

Making employees aware of this sort of thing should form part of an education program, but it’s also a good idea to grant limited access to key systems. Creating silos of users who use a particular system is recommended, or allowing system access for a limited period. Allowing one profile (or more) complete access to all systems all the time is creating a massive platform for risk. Limited access protects the user and the organization. 

3. Cyber threat intelligence in cybersecurity

In cybersecurity, the evolution of algorithmic approaches and the integration of cyber threat intelligence have become essential in combating sophisticated hacker tactics. Modern algorithms now focus on core characteristics rather than just content, employing AI to identify impersonations in writing style and language. This is combined with pattern analysis to block malicious emails. Concurrently, cyber threat intelligence, which analyses the motives, targets, and methods of attackers, has become a crucial defense layer. 

As attackers use advanced methods like legitimate domain emails and clean IP addresses, it’s vital to have robust security systems that blend advanced algorithmic analysis with continuous threat intelligence, and human experts still play a huge role here, to effectively detect and counter hacker activities.

4. View email as just one piece of the security puzzle

While email is a useful tool to access an organization’s assets, it’s not the only one. But it’s important to ensure that all avenues are coordinated to block threats, from cloud applications, to websites accessed by employees. And technology systems are also only one aspect of cybersecurity. Much of an organization’s protection lies in ensuring staff is vigilant and educated. Email security should not be a silo, but rather it should be integrated into the bigger picture of the entire technology environment, which should be integrated into the company culture.

5. A multi-layered approach with emphasis on attachment scanning

In enhancing email security, a multi-layered approach is paramount, with a significant emphasis on the vigilant scanning of attachments. These attachments are often the carriers of malware and other cyber threats. Advanced scanning techniques are crucial, utilizing not only traditional malware signature detection but also heuristic analysis to identify new, unknown threats. This involves examining attachments in a controlled environment, or ‘sandboxing’, to detect any malicious behavior.

Additionally, this multi-layered strategy should integrate robust phishing detection, continuous cyber threat intelligence updates, and stringent access controls, ensuring a comprehensive defense against the diverse and evolving nature of email-based threats. 

Attackers excel in presenting an innocent front in a phishing email, and it requires not only smart systems in place, but human smarts at every level to keep a company’s data assets secure. Cybersecurity walks the fine line between maintaining efficiency and avoiding user frustration, while also keeping an organization’s key assets safe.

Contact our team of experts to learn more about developing a comprehensive cybersecurity training program for your business.

If you are looking for an expert to help you find the best solutions for your business talk to GCInfotech about a free technology assessment

Published with consideration from TechRadar.org SOURCE

/by

Cybersecurity awareness month: the 4 biggest security mistakes to avoid

Cybersecurity Awareness Month has been celebrated in October since 2002. It’s a time for everyone, from everyday internet dwellers to private companies, to come together and work to raise awareness about the importance of cybersecurity in the world we live in.

Today I’ll take a look at the four biggest security mistakes that, even now, people still make, and explain why they’re so risky.

Mistake #1: reusing passwords across accounts

In a world where security breaches are a common occurrence, reusing passwords is one of the most dangerous digital habits to have.

Using the same password across multiple accounts means that a cybercriminal only needs that one password to access your entire digital life.

It’s hard to remember all of your login credentials, sure, especially if you have dozens of them – and when many sites force you to create a 14-digit combination of numbers, special characters, and capital letters.

Luckily, this is where password managers come into their own, and I consider them a vital addition to your online security toolkit.

Mistake #2: not updating software

This might seem like a relatively innocuous sin in the grand scheme of things. So you haven’t updated your copy of Windows since you installed it, or that copy of Acrobat Reader that sits quietly in the background until you need to view a PDF. What harm could that possibly do?

The answer is far more serious than you might think. As well as bug fixes, updates often contain security patches that block newly discovered vulnerabilities.

In fact, many hackers rely on people not updating their software, because that leaves them with an easy way to access your system and steal your data or install something malicious.

Getting through these updates can be a pain – especially if you’re unable to use your device for a little while – but keeping up with them is a no-brainer if you value your digital privacy.

Fake emails and phishing attacks are growing ever more sophisticated. Many of us are bombarded by emails claiming to be from delivery companies, banks, and even family and friends, all of them encouraging us to click on a link to verify delivery, check our bank statements, or send money to help with a broken down car.

Don’t click links in emails if it’s a message you’re not expecting or from an address you don’t recognize

At the risk of repeating what has been said many times in the past, please don’t click on links in emails if it’s one you’re not expecting, or it comes from an address you don’t recognize.

These links will send you to fake sites that exist solely to harvest your personal data and login details and, if you’re still making the mistake of using shared passwords, you might have just compromised all of your accounts.

Mistake #4: not using a VPN on public Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is everywhere, in every shop, pub, bus, train, and office, inviting you to connect and browse the internet. But how do you know that the open Wi-Fi hotspot you’re connecting to is what it claims to be?

Sure, some of them have a confirmation page that reassures you you’re connecting to the real thing, but it’s shockingly easy to make a fake webpage. There’s also the simple truth that if a Wi-Fi point is completely open then you have no idea who might be connected to it, who might be trying to peek at your browsing habits or your messages to see what information you’re sharing.

If you are looking for an expert to help you find the best solutions for your business talk to GCInfotech about a free technology assessment

Published with consideration from TechRadar.com SOURCE

/by

Why MFA isn’t foolproof: How to strengthen your security

Multifactor authentication (MFA) significantly enhances your business’s security, but it’s not invincible. Cybercriminals have found ways to exploit MFA’s weaknesses, and understanding these is essential for safeguarding your business. This article will guide you through common MFA hacks and provide preventive strategies.

How cybercriminals bypass MFA

Cybercriminals use a variety of techniques to compromise MFA systems.

MFA fatigue

MFA fatigue, also known as push bombing, occurs when cybercriminals flood users with numerous authentication requests, often through push notifications. Overwhelmed by the constant bombardment, users may accidentally or out of frustration approve one of the requests, unwittingly giving cybercriminals access. A notable example of this occurred in 2022 when cybercriminals targeted Uber’s external contractor, repeatedly sending MFA requests until access was granted.

Phishing

In a phishing attack, cybercriminals pose as legitimate entities such as banks or IT support, and send deceptive messages that prompt users to provide their MFA codes. These messages often contain a sense of urgency such as a warning of an account breach or a required security update to pressure users into acting without verifying the authenticity of the request. Once the cybercriminals have the MFA code, they can use it to bypass security systems and gain unauthorized access to accounts or sensitive data.

SIM swapping

Mobile devices are often used as a primary means of receiving MFA codes, making them a prime target for cybercriminals. In a SIM swapping attack, a cybercriminal convinces a mobile carrier to transfer a victim’s phone number to a new SIM card that they control. Once successful, the cybercriminal intercepts MFA codes sent via SMS, allowing unauthorized access to the victim’s accounts.

Strategies to prevent MFA attacks

To protect your organization from MFA hacks, follow these strategies:

Use risk-based authentication

Implement risk-based authentication that dynamically adjusts security requirements based on user behavior. For example, if a user logs in from an unusual location or unknown device, the system can automatically require additional verification. This adaptive approach helps prevent attacks by raising security standards when necessary.

Implement hardware-based MFA

Hardware security keys such as those that use Fast Identity Online (FIDO) protocols, provide stronger protection than software-based MFA. These physical devices generate unique authentication codes, making them much harder to intercept or duplicate. Consider using hardware-based MFA for highly sensitive applications to enhance your security posture.

Regularly review access rights

Grant users only the access they need. Regularly audit user permissions to ensure employees have access only to the data and systems necessary for their roles. This limits the potential damage a compromised account can cause, reducing the overall risk to your business.

Strengthen password reset processes

Password reset procedures can be a weak link in MFA systems. Make sure your reset processes require users to verify their identity through more than one channel. This additional layer of security can prevent cybercriminals from exploiting reset processes to gain unauthorized access.

Monitor high-value targets

Certain users, such as system administrators and legal or HR personnel, possess elevated privileges that make them attractive to attackers. Pay close attention to the MFA protections surrounding these accounts and implement the strictest security measures.

Stay ahead of emerging threats

Cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics. To ensure your systems remain resilient, keep a close eye on new attack methods and vulnerabilities, and proactively update your security measures to counter these threats.

Implementing these strategies can help you significantly bolster your company’s defenses against MFA attacks and safeguard valuable assets from unauthorized access.

Contact our team of experts to learn more about developing a comprehensive cybersecurity training program for your business.

If you are looking for an expert to help you find the best solutions for your business talk to GCInfotech about a free technology assessment

Published with consideration from TechAdvisory.org SOURCE

/by
,

3 Security advantages of the Cloud

Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) no longer need to view cybersecurity as an insurmountable challenge. Cloud technology has transformed the security landscape, providing SMBs with access to enterprise-level solutions without having to maintain extensive in-house IT infrastructure or staff. Here are three security advantages the cloud offers over traditional IT setups

Access to specialized expertise

For SMBs, limited in-house resources often force IT staff to juggle multiple technologies and responsibilities, which compromises cybersecurity quality. No matter how skilled, a small tech support team cannot master every necessary service or solution, and if they focus solely on cybersecurity, other critical areas such as hardware maintenance and help desk services suffer.

In contrast, cloud service providers (CSPs) operate on a larger scale. They manage numerous servers with large teams composed of specialists for every aspect of cloud technology, including cybersecurity. This means you can fully secure your IT without compromising any other aspect of your operations.

Fewer vulnerabilities

In a traditional IT infrastructure, all aspects of your business’s IT are consolidated in one location, which can increase your vulnerability to various cyberthreats and emergencies.

For example, a server on the same network as workstations can be compromised if an employee inadvertently downloads malware. This risk extends to physical security as well; without proper cybersecurity training, employees are more likely to create vulnerabilities, such as unsecure server rooms, unlocked workstations, or poorly designed and protected passwords.

In contrast, CSPs configure their networks to reduce access points and ensure that all personnel are well trained in cybersecurity. These factors combine to minimize security risks.

Built-in business continuity

Cloud storage offers significant advantages for business continuity during unforeseen events. Its geographically distributed infrastructure creates a natural barrier between your local network and data backups. This physical separation protects against malware that rapidly self-replicates across connected devices, such as worms. By storing backups in the cloud, you create an isolated copy of your data, reducing the risk of infection.

In addition to cyberthreats, cloud storage also safeguards your data from physical disasters such as fires, floods, or power outages. In such scenarios, the cloud ensures continued access to critical information. This means employees can seamlessly resume operations from any remote location with an internet connection, minimizing downtime and disruptions.

More than improved security

Beyond secure data storage, cloud computing now offers a vast array of customizable software, powerful platforms, and on-demand services. These options give businesses access to the exact tools they need, all within a secure and managed environment.

Let us help you unlock the full potential of the cloud and streamline your operations.

If you are looking for an expert to help you find the best solutions for your business talk to GCInfotech about a free technology assessment

Published with consideration from TechAdvisory.org SOURCE

/by