Information security is undoubtedly crucial for any industry of all sizes. Every industry has adopted security measures to protect their data and information. Organizations must be aware of the security measures as well as the threats and risks they have to face from various sources. If a company account is hacked, it can lead to a devastating monetary and data loss for an organization.
The following are the online threats that have impacted organizations and governments:
Phishing
Through emails and scam websites, personal information can be obtained by cyber-criminals. Phishing is a threat to all internet users. Cyber-criminals can obtain personal information like login credentials, bank account information, social security numbers, credit card numbers, and other sensitive information. The cyber-criminals present themselves as a trustworthy organization and obtain your sensitive information.
Cybercriminals also attack by sending SMS and through calls. The fake calls pretending to be from Microsoft or such other companies are examples of Vishing. The SMS attacks are called Smishing. Users of mobile devices have to be extremely cautious and should not provide any personal information to a stranger over a call or SMS. Also, any suspicious email should not be opened or downloaded on your devices.
Malware
Malicious Software or Malware gets downloaded on a computer or laptop without the user’s knowledge. An email attachment or hacked websites visited by users can download malware on a user’s device. When your computer starts slowing down or you get heaps of pop-ups on your screen, it is probably because of malware.
Avoid any malware attack on your computer by using verified anti-virus software. To avoid the risk of getting malware infection on your device, avoid opening any suspicious emails or download attachments from unknown sources. The various types of malware are spyware, phishing, viruses, rootkits, worms, trojan horses, adware, and ransomware.
Spyware
A computer can easily get infected by spyware if you download files or attachments from suspicious email addresses. Also, when you download software’s from unsafe websites, your computer is easily prone to infection. If the computer is infected, multiple tabs will automatically open when you are browsing, icons randomly appear on your desktop, and you will continuously receive error messages.
Spyware collects information about your browsing history, surfing habits, and also your personal information. Avoid opening any suspicious emails and downloading software or files from unknown websites. Protect your computer by using verified antivirus software with antispyware protection.
Ransomware
The ransomware attack is another type of malware. In a ransomware attack, cybercriminals remotely access the computer. Hackers, then lock the computer using codes, and they will not unlock unless they are paid. The ransomware attack is mostly an attack on government and enterprise systems. The attacks on the government are on the rise since 2018. In 2018, there were more than 50 attacks that were reported.
Mobile Device:
Mobile is used by almost everyone, and it’s no surprise that it’s among the top cybersecurity trends. Presently, mobile is used for personal use as well as for business use. Hence any suspicious activity is a risk for the user as well as for organizations. It’s a huge concern for most organizations. Fraudulent activities through mobile apps have increased multi-fold. The cybercrimes have increased in the last few decades. Cybersecurity professionals and departments in organizations have to be very cautious with their employees using mobile devices for work-related activities.
Data Privacy and compliance
Most companies like telecom, healthcare, banking sectors, maintain confidential customer information. These companies have to ensure they have good data security systems to protect customer information. The compliance of maintaining data is depended on certain legislations. While collecting information, organizations have to inform the purpose and how the data is going to be used. Companies have to increase security to protect information by using encryption and other tools.
The changes and improvements in cybersecurity:
Automation of Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity automation is an advantage to organizations. It can detect any risks or threats. All physical, as well as virtual assets and data, can be maintained and patched. With cyber automation, organizations can decrease downtime and increase visibility. Cybersecurity can perform assessments to identify potential threats and vulnerabilities and track all hardware and software assets owned by the organization. Automation will make life a lot convenient and safe for the organization. However, skilled staff would be required to operate the automation tools.
Organizations are making huge investments in cybersecurity. There is awareness among organizations on the importance of security to keep their confidential information safe. In the present time, where all information is stored on network computers, it is a potential threat if they are not careful or have the awareness to implement adequate security measures.
AI and ML on Cybersecurity
AI and ML is a huge advantage for cybersecurity. It will reinvent the way cybersecurity works. An AI-based security solution will work continuously without a break, it will be quick in responding to threats, cybersecurity professionals will be able to make informed decisions, and AI will provide accurate biometric login information.
Authentication and Access Management
Industries use biometrics and authentication to identify the user and to give access only to an authorized user. Although multi-factor authentication, privileged access management, and single sign-on is already prevalent, there have been breaches and password data leaks. Security professionals have a huge responsibility to make secure authentication processes to allow only authorized users.
There are rapid changes and continuous improvements in the Information Security spectrum. As there are continuous innovations and improvements in the field of information security, the threats and risks are also rising. There will be a huge demand for Information security professionals in every industry of all sizes.
Certification Planner is a leading e-learning platform that specializes in providing certifications like PMP, Lean Six Sigma, ITIL, Digital Marketing, Information Security, and many more. Certification Planner provides the following 3 Information security certification programs:
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
• Certified Information System Auditor (CISA)
• Certified Information Security Master (CISM)
If you would like to know more about the certification programs for Information Security, contact us at +18553221201 or email us at support@certificationplanner.com. You can also visit our website at www.certificationplanner.com.
Director of Content Development at Certification Planner LLC