2018 Cyberthreats
A spectacular shift is on the horizon for businesses and what they can accomplish this year.
Advancements in the realms of AI and IoT offer benefits that are now available internationally, with technology that can redirect resources and heighten productivity.
Unfortunately, such advancements are not immune to cybercrime.
Hackers are taking advantage of evolving technology, developing fresh means of hacking IT infrastructures at an incredible pace, and vulnerabilities are widespread.
An enhanced cybersecurity strategy is a must-have for every business, and there are specific threats that you’ll need to consider this year when planning your IT Services strategy.
Insider Threats
No company likes to admit that a security breach was at the hands of its own personnel, but the occurrence isn’t uncommon.
Research reveals that hackers are attempting to bribe insiders to participate in attacks, and the offers of substantial rewards could be difficult to refuse.
This is especially true when all that is required of the insider is to open a malicious email or provide a few passwords.
To acknowledge the presence of insider threats, businesses must limit essential access to only those employees for whom it is required.
Your security system should also monitor staff activity for signs of fraud, with heavy restrictions on critical data.
A Vulnerable IoT
Although a network of smart devices offers almost unlimited convenience, a seemingly harmless hardware device could be the small opening that hackers need to gain access to your most important systems.
Many IoT devices are not capable of installing patches are updates and are often built and pushed to market with older software and out-of-date patches.
Businesses unwittingly allow these IoT devices to connect to their wireless networks, not realizing that there is minimal or no security in place.
It is an obvious vulnerability that must be addressed, as these devices offer hackers an easy pathway into your network.
At the very least, a hacker could force your non-essential systems offline, resulting in a loss of vital time and resources for your business.
Serverless Apps Aren’t Protected
Serverless apps allow companies to worry less about the overhead management and costs of doing business, instead providing them peace of mind enough to redirect their attention to the needs of consumers.
It’s more than likely that 2018 will see an increase in such methods, but serverless apps are not without risk.
Your infrastructure is still vulnerable to cyberattacks, and hackers will be deliberate in their search for apps without security.
Data in transit is a particular vulnerability, making encryption vital to whatever program you choose to use.
A Weak Link in the Supply Chain
Your business may have an excellent cybersecurity strategy, but your vendors and other partners may have weaknesses that could be harmful to all involved.
A disruption somewhere down the line can have profound consequences for your own business and could potentially halt all operations.
For a strong defence, everyone in your entire chain must coordinate their cybersecurity efforts.
Many businesses have difficulties surviving a cybersecurity attack, and regardless of outcome, there is always a significant loss.
Many opportunities for technological advancements may be realized in2018, but your cybersecurity strategy must echo your initiatives for the year ahead.
Be mindful of the risks ahead, and plan accordingly to ensure a strong infrastructure in the face of intelligent cybercriminals.
The ITeam understands the cybersecurity issues facing Canada. We are committed to helping Calgary- and Alberta-based businesses develop proactive, cost-effective IT strategies that minimize risk and maximize efficiency. Contact us to learn more.