As the saying goes, “forewarned is forearmed,” and this couldn’t be more prudent in the world of information technology, where the next threat is always just around the corner.
In 2021 alone, 81% of global organizations experienced an increase in cyber-threats, with the nature of these attacks being more sophisticated than ever before.
Therefore, if you want to keep your business and your data safe, you need to be aware of the latest threats.
From ransomware to phishing, crypto-mining to social engineering, keep reading to discover the top five cybersecurity threats in 2022. Plus, how you can prevent them.
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How to prevent IT security threats:
- Hire an IT support company such as Eastern Data to manage your IT systems
- Invest in regular staff training
- Ensure staff are vigilant at all times
- Keep your software up to date
- Back up all your data
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Ransomware
Ransomware is on the rise worldwide and involves a hacker locking a business’ computers or files and holding them ransom until a payment is made.
Ransomware can be spread through phishing emails or by someone unknowingly visiting an infected website.
If your business is subjected to a ransomware attack, it can be very difficult to recover the affected data, as even if you pay the ransom, there is no guarantee that you will get your data back.
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Social Engineering
An estimated 93% of business data breaches come from an employee unknowingly engaging with a social engineering attack.
Social engineering attackers rely on human error to make their move. They use manipulation to try and break standard security protocols and to gain access to your software or private data.
One of the most common forms of social engineering is phishing which involves an attacker sending a malicious email with the intent to trick the victim into sharing sensitive information. In 2022, you can expect to see many more personalized phishing attacks.
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Malicious Crypto-Mining
Although cryptocurrencies are completely legal, there is no denying that they have led to a huge number of crypto-related cyber-threats.
Malicious crypto-mining, also known as crypto-jacking, is an online threat that is hidden on a desktop computer or mobile device and uses the machine’s resources to mine forms of online currency such as Bitcoin.
Malware created specifically for crypto-mining can also be used to infect your systems, encrypt files and hold them for ransom.
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5G Risks
As more businesses invest in 5G technology, you can expect to see a rise in cyber-criminals using vulnerable connections to infiltrate network infrastructures.
Therefore, if you are planning to move to a 5G network, you need to make sure that your existing online security protocols are robust enough to keep your data protected as you make the shift.
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Mobile malware
As more and more people turn to their mobile devices to send emails, download files, and access data, cybercriminals have turned their efforts to mobile malware attacks.
Techniques such as surveillance, credential theft, and harmful adverts are used to steal sensitive information from businesses.
