Online businesses naturally rely on the Internet to attract customers and conduct business. In fact, you probably heavily use the Internet even if you run a brick-and-mortar company. But extensive connectivity can leave your company vulnerable to cyber attacks. According to the Small Business Administration (SBA), there are four common types of cyber threats – and two general ways to try to prevent them.
#1. Malware
The term “malware” is short for “malicious software.” Malware is designed to access your computer and damage it somehow. Often, you won’t know someone installed the program until it has already caused considerable damage.
Sometimes malware spreads material through your computer system to other users. Since the programs typically run in the background, you may not see it working.
Some of the following cyber threats are forms of malware.
#2. Viruses
Computer viruses are programs or bits of code intended to replicate and spread from computer to computer, network to network. A virus can change the way your computer works, destroy data, or alter programs. As with other forms of cyber attacks, a virus can run undetected until something triggers it.
#3. Ransomware
This type of cyber attack can shut down a company’s computer system until the company pays a ransom. The attacker sends instructions to the victim telling them how to get a decryption key. Victims cannot resume business operations until the ransom is paid and the decryption key employed. Ransomware cyber attacks often start with spam emails or emails that seem legitimate but contain infected attachments.
#4. Phishing
Victims of phishing cyber attacks receive emails that ask the reader to open an attachment or click on a link. When victims do so, their computers become infected with a form of malware. Phishing emails are also used to steal login information from users.
Preventing Cyber Attacks
Understanding the different types of cyber attacks is the first step toward preventing them. The SBA has suggested two specific ways to minimize your company’s risks:
#1. Training. Consider training your employees to follow safety protocols and use best practices when working online. Also, employees must know what to do if they recognize a cyber attack, even if you just want them to call IT.
#2. Protecting Your Data. Put your company behind strong firewalls and anti-virus programs. Also, back up your work regularly. Keep your backups at a separate facility or on the cloud.
It’s especially important to consider cybersecurity measures when your employees work from home or anywhere off-campus.
About the Author
Attorney Richard Sierra at the Florida Small Business Center assists clients like you with business and litigation matters. As always, Our Goal Is to Help You Succeed™. For an appointment, you may call us at 1-866-842-5202 or use the contact form on our website. We represent clients throughout the State of Florida, including Coral Springs, Coconut Creek, Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Pompano Beach, Sunrise, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, West Palm Beach, Jupiter, Deerfield Beach, Stuart, Port St. Lucie, Orlando, Naples, Fort Myers, Sarasota, Tampa, and surrounding communities.