Cybercrime has become the fastest-growing form of criminal activity in today’s digital world. Small businesses are favourite targets of cybercriminals because their IT infrastructures are less secured. Even with the growing numbers of sophisticated IT infrastructures, only 14% of small businesses are prepared to defend themselves from cyber threats.

Cybercriminals are able to launch thousands of digital attacks to mobile and desktop platforms. Only one malicious code is required to connect and compromise your operations resulting in serious disruptions. Within last year, the frequency of these attacks has been increasing and 4 in 10 small businesses experience multiple incidents.

According to Keeper Security’s 2019 SMB Cyber Threat Study, 66% of senior decision-makers at small businesses still believe they’re unlikely to be targeted by online criminals. 6 in 10 have no digital defence plan in place whatsoever, underscoring the need for heightened industry awareness and education across the board.

According to anti-virus provider, McAfee, there are 480 new high-tech threats introduced every minute. Ironically, human error still remains one of the greatest threats to any organisations. With just 3 out of 10 employees currently receiving annual cyber security training, it’s all too easy for enterprising con artists or e-mail scammers to circumvent even the most cutting-edge digital safeguards.

Condition Zebra would like to advise small businesses’ owners to start making cyber security a top priority by:

1. Conducting ongoing vulnerability tests and risk assessments on computer networks and applications to seek out and address possible points of failure before they arise. You can take this opportunity to conduct a FREE penetration testing by claiming your slot here.

2. Providing regular, up-to-date training for staffers on the latest online threats and trends in cybercrime. Learn more about our cyber security training and how this training can help to defend your IT infrastructures here.

3. Creating daily backups and duplicates of data and files that can be retrieved in the event of system compromise or ransomware.

4. Installing and regularly updating anti-viruses, network firewalls, and information encryption tools to scan and counteract viruses and harmful programs; guard against incoming network or denial-of-service attacks; and keep sensitive information safe.

5. Limiting employees’ access to only files, folders, and applications that are required to perform routine on-the-job tasks.

6. Instructing staff about the dangers of clicking on unsolicited email links and attachments, and the need to stay alert for warning signs of fraudulent emails.

7. Utilising multi factor authentication before authorising any major, uncommon, irregular, or allegedly time-sensitive requests.

Source: CNBC