Cyber security is a big topic for all businesses at board level. With the increasing costs of cyber attacks, businesses can’t afford to put cyber security at the back of their agenda anymore.
Cyber attacks lead to data breaches of customer, staff and organisational data, as well as financial loss and reputational damage. The goal is to keep this information safe, but this can’t be done with just technical defences.
Even with the best cyber security systems in place, one click, a weak password or a response to an attempted cyber attack can put the entire business at risk.
Every employee has a role to play in protecting company data. It’s vital that staff know how to recognise common cyber attacks and what steps to take next if they suspect malicious activity.
Understanding Your Role in the Business Cyber Defence.
All businesses have adapted to digital ways of working and store some form of digital asset virtually. Everyone must understand how to protect this information.
Each person has a digital footprint made up of emails, passwords, devices, applications and social media accounts. These elements are often connected: passwords provide access to apps, while email addresses are used to create accounts across different platforms.
Even if an attacker does not gain access to a password, they can still manipulate other information and gather facts about you to launch further attacks and obtain the details they need.
Once a cyber criminal gains access to a platform, they will quickly try to exploit as much data as possible before they are discovered.
For example, if an attacker obtains the login credentials for one user account, the threat does not stop with that person’s information. Those credentials could be used to access additional systems and data, potentially enabling a larger attack on the business involving other user accounts, customer financial data or confidential company information.
Every user should understand that their actions affect not only their own security, but also the security of the entire organisation.
Common Cyber Attacks to Look Out For
Understanding your role in protecting the business from cyber threats is the first step. Next, it’s important to recognise common attack methods and know how to respond if you suspect a message or communication may be malicious.
Phishing Emails
These emails are designed to trick people into clicking on links or opening attachments that contain malicious software, designed to steal your information or infect your device.
Look out for:
Suspicious email address domains,
Spelling and grammar errors,
Unexpected requests for sensitive information,
Strange attachments or images.
Messaging Scams
Attacks delivered through a messaging platform such as SMS or WhatsApp. They often impersonate delivery companies, banks, or close friends and family.
Look out for:
Unexpected delivery notifications,
Account warnings,
Unusual requests,
Links to payment pages.
Ransomware and Malware
This is malicious software that infects your devices, steals information, encrypts files or prevents access to important systems.
Look out for:
Unexpected pop-ups,
Unusual device behaviour,
Security alerts,
Ransom messages.
Unsafe WiFi and Network Connections:
Unsecured networks and fraudulent WiFi hotspots can expose business activity and redirect users to malicious websites.
Look out for:
Unexpected login pages,
Requests to disable security settings,
Missing lock icon,
Security messages.
If you suspect you have been targeted by a cyber attack, never ignore it. Make sure you:
Don’t click anything,
Don’t delete any evidence,
Inform your cyber security or IT team,
Follow expert guidance and change any passwords if necessary.
Habits That can Make a Real Difference
Protecting yourself and your organisation is a top priority. Cyber security should be at the forefront of everything you do. By building these habits into your daily routine, you can take an extra step towards keeping your business secure.
Use unique passwords: Create a different strong password for every important account.
Turn on multifactor authentication: Add a second verification step, especially for email, banking, and work accounts.
Think before clicking: Verify unexpected links, attachments, payment requests, and urgent messages before acting.
Update promptly: Install updates on time for operating systems, banking platforms, emails and device security updates.
Protect devices: Lock your screen when you step away and automate backups for important files.
Limit access: Share only the information and permissions that a person actually needs.
Report quickly: Tell your incident response team as soon as you notice something suspicious.
Conclusion
The key takeaway is that everyone plays a role in protecting a business’s overall cyber security posture. You don’t need to be a cyber security expert to know how to keep yourself and your organisation secure.
If you’d like additional support for your employees, our cyber security awareness handbook provides expert guidance and practical advice your staff can follow to strengthen security across your business.
