It seems that the hackers never sleep and there are new threats to company networks all the time. We’ve gone a long way past the common virus, and now there are approximately 350,000+ new malware variants being released every day.
It’s important to stay abreast of the proper cybersecurity defenses you need to ensure your network and data are protected to help you avoid a costly breach.
58% of cyberattack victims are small businesses and as many as 60% never recover from a data breach.
Knowledge is power, so when it comes to your data and network security, it’s important to know what new threats may be on the horizon in 2020, whether they’re well-known malware or new variations to be on the lookout for.
Texas I.T. Pros has taken a look at the top threats being reported by the FBI as well as anti-malware software manufacturers to bring you a “hot sheet” of cybersecurity threats in the coming year.
Here are the Biggest Threats to Business Networks in 2020
Keeping your data, devices, and network safeguarded from threats is an ongoing battle. Below are some of the threats to prepare for now to avoid becoming a victim in 2020.
Infected Mobile Devices
Mobile devices are often overlooked when it comes to data security, but they’re increasingly being targeted by hackers as they take on more of the office workload and have access to all the same data as a desktop.
Mobile ransomware attacks increased 33% last year and this is a trend that’s going to continue into the new year.
You can help protect yourself by using a mobile device management application that allows you to secure both corporate-owned and employee-owned devices and help protect them from being an entry point for malware.
Ransomware Attacks
Ransomware isn’t new, but the way that it’s infecting networks often is. Ransomware and other forms of malware are now designed using artificial intelligence and stealth techniques made to get past more simple anti-malware programs.
The FBI put out a public service announcement in October titled, “High-Impact Ransomware Attacks Threaten U.S. Businesses and Organizations” that warns of the significant increase in losses by companies that are victims of ransomware.
Two of the important defenses against ransomware are to have a reliable backup and recovery solution for all your data and to employ the use of an advanced anti-malware program that includes things like machine learning, AI, and sandboxing designed to catch advanced threats.
Internet of Things (IoT) Devices
Smart devices are multiplying at a rapid pace both in homes and in offices. Often these devices are either left on default settings or not safeguarded as they should be.
There was recently a story in the news about a new Ring security camera in a child’s room being hacked just days after it was installed. These same types of cameras are often deployed in offices and can experience the same unauthorized intrusions if not properly protected.
For any internet connected devices and smart gadgets that you use at your office, you want ensure that passwords and user names have been changed from defaults and that they are included in your network monitoring and security strategy.
Social & Text-based Phishing
Phishing attacks remain the number one method used to deliver malware and perpetrate data breaches, and while email inboxes with continue to be a target, in 2020 look for a rise in other forms of phishing.
Social media has made it easier than ever to connect to people and learn personal details about them that can be used to trick a user into clicking a malicious link or revealing sensitive information.
Social phishing comes in the form of misleading notes sent through direct messaging in an app like Facebook. Text phishing is when an SMS is used to deliver a link from a number that’s spoofing a colleague’s name or title.
The best way to defend against all types of phishing is by holding regular I.T. security awareness training for employees so they know the tactics to watch out for and how to keep themselves (and your network) safe.
Malicious PowerShell Scripts
Use of PowerShell script attacks increased 1000% last year, and this trend is continuing into 2020. This type of attack is called “fileless” malware because instead of having you download a dangerous file that infects your system, a PowerShell script uses a built-in Windows tool against you.
Windows PowerShell handles all types of operating system tasks like running commands and enabling admins to manage system configurations. A malicious PowerShell script takes advantage of this and send commands that can leave your system open to a remote hack or other type of attack.
A multi-layered approach is one of the best ways to protect against these fileless attacks. Using advanced firewalls and programs that have application whitelisting can help as well as having your security patches managed through a managed services plan.
Is Your I.T. Security Ready for the New Network Threats?
Are your defenses strong enough to handle the top threats coming in 2020? Texas I.T. Pros can help you with full network and device security assessment and let you know where you stand.
Contact us today to beef up your cybersecurity. Call 940-239-6500 or reach out online.