Virus Attacks
Although you may read about hackers targeting some of the world’s largest corporations, 43% of all cyber attacks occur at small businesses. This staggering statistic shows that all businesses — regardless of size — are vulnerable to hacking and cyber attacks at any time. Not only do these hacks lead to sizable monetary losses, but they can also tarnish the reputation of the business with clients, customers, and potential customers. To reduce your chance of an attack and familiarize yourself with online risks, here are some of the most common business virus attacks.
Malware
Malware is one of the most catastrophic of all cyber attacks. It’s a written code produced by hackers that’s designed to destroy or steal data on a particular computer or network.
In most instances, malware infects a computer by mimicking a seemingly credible email attachment or software download.
While antivirus software often detects malware and mitigates the chance of a viral infection, you should also educate your staff on the origins of malware. Instruct them to never open an email from an unknown source and to only download software from reputable websites.
As your information technology partner, our LAN WAN engineers work closely with each client we serve by not only providing IT solutions and support but also tips to prevent such issues from happening.
Ransomware
Ransomware is another type of cyber attack that can cripple a business. During a ransomware attack, hackers put a computer or network on lockdown and hold valuable statistics or financial information for ransom. When the business pays the ransom, the hacker promises not to release any sensitive information and unlocks the system. However, many hackers also receive the ransom and still release the information or keep the system locked, forcing business owners to take heavy losses to recoup lost time, earnings, and productivity.
Much like malware, ransomware infects computers or networks by acting as a reputable download or email. To prevent such an attack, use a firewall or antivirus software, use backup data to secure your valuable information, and use scanning and filtering of all incoming emails. The debate is still out on whether or not to pay the ransom, but most experts say to not pay the ransom, as it promotes, encourages, and funds future ransomware attacks.
LAN WAN has been serving businesses throughout Orange County, Los Angeles, and San Bernardino counties since 1998. We protect our clients’ systems and implement preventative measures to ensure you never have to deal with such situations. You focus on your business while we do the rest!
Data Breach
A data breach is another type of malicious attack on your network or computer that occurs when a hacker copies, views, steals or transmits information to other hackers or around the web. To breach a particular system, hackers often target and research a company to search for vulnerabilities in their cybersecurity or particular individuals. The information is then used to facilitate identity theft or fraud.
As with most other types of virus attacks, the best prevention is employee education and a strong cybersecurity system. Small businesses can’t solely rely on antivirus software, so many times a third-party security organization is a viable solution.
With a bit of knowledge about business virus attacks, you can prevent the chance of a cyber-attack and protect yourself with cybersecurity and online liability insurance. Even if the worst happens, your business reputation can remain unblemished.
Protect your business and your network while having your systems run at their most efficient capacity. Contact our IT firm in Orange County today.
