3 Types of Hackers and How to Protect Your SMB

Protecting your company’s sensitive data begins with understanding data risks and how to prevent them. 43% of cyberbreaches affect small businesses and the typical cost of a SMB (small-to-medium business) cyberbreach ranges from $826 to $653,587. The more sensitive your company data is, the more costly a potential breach will be. Educating yourself and your employees on how to secure data is the first and most impactful step in preventing a cybersecurity incident. This article discusses the three primary hacking risks and how to prevent them.

Here Are 3 Main Hacking Risks

1. Malware Authors: A malware author will attempt to steal company data through viruses, ransomware, and spyware. Once a malware author has company data, they often hold it for ransom. Malware can be deployed through corrupted links, downloaded software, and compromised advertisements. Conducting regular security audits and evaluating your company’s data security infrastructure is an important way to ensure your company computers stay malware-free.
2. Phishers: Phishing attacks occur through deceptive emails or websites that trick a user into clicking on a malicious link or providing personal, confidential information. Phishers often try to access user login credentials or financial information. Preventing a phishing attack begins with educating employees on how to identify and avoid suspicious emails and links.
3. Insider Threats: An insider threat is an accidental or purposeful company data leak done by a current or former employee. This form of data breach can happen through employee negligence, such as leaving a computer with sensitive data open in a public place. A data breach can also occur through the sale of company data from disgruntled past or present employees. Protecting your company against insider threats begins with proactive company policies. Begin by ensuring any past employee loses all access to company accounts immediately. Train new employees on data-privacy best-practices such as creating a strong password, protecting personal information, and being vigilant about data security.

What’s Next?

Protecting your company’s data can seem like a daunting task, but starting small with employee education can be an easy way to save your company thousands. If you are concerned about your company’s data security, consider partnering with a Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP). As a premier MSSP, Nuvodia is here to help. Reach out for a quote today.