[BreachExchange] Understanding the Latest Cybersecurity Threats

[Audrey McNeil]

http://www.itbriefcase.net/understanding-the-latest-cybersecurity-threats

Digital threats are constantly evolving and even the most stringent
security efforts may prove to be insufficient should they fall behind the
times. Just as cyber-attacks have grown more sophisticated, technologies
like cloud computing or the growing number of ways that mobile applications
are finding their way into everyday life means that the consequences of a
data breach or attack have never been more serious. Understanding the
latest threats and cybersecurity trends is absolutely essential for
ensuring that users are better able to protect themselves and their data.

Cloud-based Computing

Being able to store and access off-site data with greater ease entails a
number of specific risks that are not to be taken lightly. Computer
systems, mobile devices and networks that have only limited access to the
cloud are typically far more difficult to compromise. With more and more
applications making use of the cloud in order to power core functions, the
total number of potential vulnerabilities that hackers or malware may be
able to exploit is only expected to grow. Failing to assess the security
risks associated with cloud computing could place users at far greater risk
than they might realize.

Cryptocurrency and the Rise of Ransomware

Ransomware is a term used to describe any attack where users are locked out
of their system, data or device and then instructed to pay a ransom in
order to resolve the situation. Cryptocurrencies are largely responsible
for the rising number of ransomware attacks as they offer a form of payment
that is often difficult or impossible to track. A successful ransomware
attack can be a serious issue, especially for small businesses,
professionals and those who require access to their data and digital
working environment as part of their livelihood. Preventive efforts are
often the most effective way to deal with such threats and those who fail
to adequately protect themselves could be making a very serious and costly
mistake.

Mobile Applications

The casual installation and ease of installation offered by mobile
applications can lure many users into a false sense of security. The
underlying security liabilities contained in many mobile apps make them the
natural point of attack for many hackers or malware designers. Mobile
devices and their applications have been incorporated into the digital
infrastructure of users so thoroughly that a compromised phone or tablet is
often all that is needed for a data breach or successful cyberattack to
occur. An unsecured mobile device is one of the most common factors that
may contribute to a cyberattack.

Security Resources and Solutions

Today’s digital security solutions are often a lot more extensive than a
simple firewall or anti-viral app. Professional IT services or a
full-featured security system are often required in order to ensure that a
network or system is able to enjoy sufficient protection. A top down
assessment of their devices, habits and even the smart-appliances and other
wireless devices that may be attached to their home or business network
could turn up numerous potential vulnerabilities that users might have
otherwise overlooked. Arranging for a professional security service to
conduct a comprehensive audit of their digital infrastructure is often a
wise course of action, especially for equipment owners and users who might
lack the technical understanding needed to deal with the latest threats and
risks.

Protecting Against Emerging Threats

The rapid pace of technological advancement means that security efforts
that are more than adequate to protect against current threats may be of
little use in the days to come. As malware, software viruses and other
forms of cyber-attacks continue to grow and evolve, new resources and
next-generation security solutions are required in order to counter the
threat. From outdated software to users who may be unaware of how hackers
are able to use phishing, scams and other social engineering efforts in
order to gain access to a network, outlining and addressing threats as they
emerge is of paramount importance for ensuring that security efforts are
able to be as effective as possible.
-------------- next part --------------
An HTML attachment was scrubbed...
URL: <http://lists.riskbasedsecurity.com/pipermail/breachexchange/attachments/20180605/313fb08b/attachment.html>