As the world becomes more and more digital, cybercrime is becoming an increasingly serious threat. With the rise of online shopping, social media, and other online activities, there is more personal and financial information online than ever before, making it easier for these nifty cybercriminals to target businesses.
What is cybercrime?
Cybercrime is any criminal activity that involves all things computer and network related. Things like hacking, phishing, identity theft, malware, and ransomware attacks. Cybercriminals are wily and will use a variety of tactics to steal sensitive information, and use it for their own gain – shock horror, can you trust anyone these days?!
The dangers of cybercrime!
Cybercrime can have dire consequences for businesses, for example
- Financial loss – thieving cybercriminals can steal money from your bank account or your businesses by gaining access to your financial information and accounts through phishing.
- Identity theft – “Who even am I?” Cybercriminals will use your stolen personal information to open new accounts or apply for loans and credit cards in your name – oh the shame.
- Reputation damage – As you are well aware – we are all about REPUTATION here at cannect digital, it’s your brand image! A sneaky cyber attack can damage your business’s reputation, especially if sensitive information is leaked. Did you mind your p’s and q’s!?
- Loss of intellectual property – These vicious keyboard criminals can even steal your valuable intellectual property, such as trade secrets and patents.
How to cover your ass(ets)
- Passwords like Fort Knox – Use strong passwords that are difficult to guess and change them regularly. Use a different password for each account.
- Two or three-factor authentication – This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone, passwords and fingerprint verification.
- Software updates – We all see that pop-up “software update” don’t swipe left – just do it, keep your computer and mobile device software up to date with the latest security updates.
- Use anti-virus software to protect your devices from malware and viruses.
- Be cautious online – Be careful what you click on and what information you share online. Don’t open email attachments from unknown senders, and be wary of phishing scams.
- Use encryption – to protect your sensitive information, such as credit card numbers and login credentials.
- Back up your data (then back that up!) – Back up your important files regularly to protect against any data loss in the event of a cyber attack.
