Cyber Security Threats for your Online Business

There are a large number of internet security threats for online firms and what you are supposed to do to
eliminate cybercrimes from your business. Below are internet threats for online firms and how you can
protect them:

1. Malicious Code

The following are different forms of malicious code

• Malware: This is malicious software that damages or disrupts the operation of devices, private information
  or gathers sensitivity, or gaining access to any private computer system.
• Ransomware :This is a kind of malware that can access an individual’s files, locks and encrypts these files.
  The individual is demanded to pay a ransom in order to get the files back.
• Spyware: This is an innovative technology that can download itself without any command or permission
  onto your personal computer. This technology will, therefore, do things without your permission like
  opening a file, steal your password, and track online activity.
• Viruses: This is malicious programs which make a copy of themselves by inserting their code and
  amending other computer programs.

How do a malicious code look in your online business:

Malicious code is propagated via social engineering deception. This social engineering deception includes
sending a file on your email with an attachment or a link that is camouflaged to reduce suspicion to
individuals. Also, allowing an individual to click a malicious link.

Ways of avoiding Malicious code online threats:

There are hackers who are experts at creating popups, emails, links, and websites that look inconspicuous
and safe. It is not enough to educate employees not to click or open these links. You should explain to them
about these threats and their impacts on your online marketing. The following are tips provided by the
National Cyber Security Alliance to protect your online business:

• make sure you update your security software (which include firewall software, antivirus program, and antispyware
  program) operating systems, and web browser.
• If your employee receives a link, email, social media post, or advertisements that seems suspicious they
  should delete permanently and report to the information technology team to look into the matter.
• Protect any device connected to your personal computers such as a gaming system or a smartphone from
  malware or viruses.
• Scan all external devices before utilizing them because they can be infected with malware and viruses.
  These external devices include USB ports.

2. Unsecured wireless internet Networks

Wireless networks can be defined as computer networks not connected by means of cables as per
Techopedia. Wireless networks reduce the cost to be incurred by firms to introduce cables. Wireless
networks are famous because they are cost-effective and easy to utilize. If these networks are left unsecured
they can cause a big threat to your online business.

How to identify threats on your wireless network:

It’s a very easy task for hackers to access to an unsecured wireless network. For individuals whose wireless
network is secured but not to the expected limit, they are still in the risk of security threats. Hackers can use
tutorials and simple equipment found online to intercept any unencrypted information. They can, therefore,
read this information clearly. This information can include corporate data, trade secrets, passwords,
intellectual property which is very crucial for your online business. Hackers will, therefore, be capable to
access your account and sell it to a third party.

Ways if avoiding this Threat:

• Make sure you secure your network with a password.
• Use encryption: Even if hackers can access your information, they won’t be able to read due to encryption.

3. Security Breaches

The biggest internet threat is not from a hacker or outsider, but because of employees or internal security breach.

How to identify an internal security Breach.

This threat can take the following forms: A number of employees don’t recall their login credentials so they
leave their password on the desk or a note. This carelessness of important credentials will, therefore, lead to
a security breach. Also, outsourced contractors are provided with login credentials to some crucial areas in
terms of the economy. This credentials should, therefore, be deleted when their contract is over.

How to avoid a security breach:

• Change passwords regularly: An individual should change the passwords at least once in ninety days to
  avoid access to systems.
• Password management: A firm has the mandate to manage all the created accounts, passwords and the
  employee who has the access.
• Train employees: Train current and onboarding new employees about internet security. This will help
  employees to avoid common and simple mistakes which can include the act of writing sticky notes and
  carelessly keeping them at their desks. Inject some knowledge to them on what steps to take in case they
  experience a security breach.
• Be careful when hiring employees: Keenly check your employee’s background and ask for there references.
  Whether it is an independent contractor or a full-time employee, research keenly to know if they may have
  associates in any of the competing firms which they can disclose fundamental information with the wrong
  individuals.

4. Phishing

If you receive an email addressing you to reset your password because your account has been hacked and
thus what you need is to click a link to correct the error think twice because this may be a phishing email.

How to avoid Phishing:

• Train your employees well: Employees should be taught that the company or the Information technology
  department don’t use the internet to address such matters.
• Involve management: Employees should involve the management in case they receive a message that
  seems to have a piece of phishing information. This will help the management to alert other employees
  regarding this type of phishing messages.
• Always ask when you’re in Doubt: It is a clever idea if employees can be capable of conducting the
  management if they are not sure about some information on their personal computer.

Internet threats are recently high but understanding the different types of threats and how you can manage
them is very crucial in reducing cyber crimes. This will protect an individual’s business against security
threats. The above-listed steps will guide and educate you about how to protect your online business.