Cybercrime is a serious threat to most business organizations that have an online presence. A hacker can steal customer data that a company thinks is secure. Theft of sensitive information can lead to lawsuits against a company as well as a loss of reputation as customers will find the business less trustworthy to deal with. Here are some solutions your business can deploy to help guard against hackers.
FILE ENCRYPTION
A file encryption tool translates data files into a code that is unreadable without the key. When your business sends or stores files, they could be hacked by a bad actor. If the files are encrypted, the hacker will not be able to read them without cracking the code.
As encryption is a highly sophisticated code, the likelihood of a hacker being able to uncover the underlying data is small.
MULTI-FACTOR AUTHENTICATION
A business network is only as secure as its users. One way to increase security at the access point is by requiring multi-factor authentication. This method utilizes at least two pieces of identity to verify that the user is the authorized person attempting to access the system.
Some protocols use passwordless authentication. Passwords are often targeted by hackers as a weak link to get into a business’ network system. Having a multi-factor authentication process will frustrate attempted unauthorized use because a bad actor will not just be able to login if the user’s password has been compromised.
NETWORK FIREWALL
Firewalls are used to monitor access to a network system. This protection is available for hardware and software and is an integral tool to defend against malicious attacks. Firewalls check all incoming and outgoing traffic to ensure that it is safe and block any malevolent access. Hackers can be stopped from attempts to inject damaging material into your network by a strong firewall.
VIRTUAL PRIVATE NETWORK
A VPN is a tool that is used to disguise a user’s IP address so that a hacker will not be able to figure out what IP address the access is coming from. Many businesses make use of a VPN to protect their systems from online hackers. A good VPN will deter hackers and can prevent your data from being stolen.
PACKET ANALYZER
A packet sniffer can be integrated into a company’s cybersecurity plan to provide an upgraded level of protection against hacking threats. This analytical tool can identify potential problems in a network as well as alert businesses of activity that appears to be a possible cyberattack.
The information a company can obtain from a packet sniffer can also assist in developing a plan to halt possible strikes in the future.
BROWSING SECURITY
Businesses and their employees use web browsers to access information and to complete transactions. A company will need to make sure the web browser being utilized is secure. Otherwise, the entity will be vulnerable to outside interference by cybercriminals.
Secure web browsers can prevent data from being stolen and stop users from downloading all types of malware.
PENETRATION TESTING
A business may think that its systems are secure and they have the proper tools in place to stop a hack.
Using a penetration test is an excellent way for a company to evaluate how good its cybersecurity plan is. This tool simulates a hack of your systems through which an entity can identify the strengths and weaknesses of its current protocol. A company can then implement changes to make its system stronger against cyber attacks.
Being able to anticipate how a possible attack from a cybercriminal might occur is one of the best ways to implement the correct plan to stop it from happening.
CONCLUSION
Most businesses rely heavily on computer systems, including networks, software, and internet use. Smart companies need to be aware of potential cybersecurity threats and ways to identify, manage and prevent these attacks to minimize potential damages to the organization.
