It’s no secret that society is slowly migrating its dealings into the digital space, resulting in accessibility and convenience for all. However, like most things, this process has a downside in the form of ever-prevalent cyber threats and crime.
In fact, the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) noted 67,500 cybercrime reports in 2021 alone. That’s a 13 per cent increase compared to the report in 2020.
With that said, the first step to improving cyber security is educating businesses about potential threats. Today, we’ll take a look at malware.
What Is Malware?
In layman’s terms, malware refers specifically to software designed to control or take over a device, usually without the user’s knowledge. Hackers typically develop malware to steal personal or financial information or destroy data.
It’s also worth noting that hackers can transmit malware through several mediums, including email, text, or unsecured websites. Additionally, they can attack from any device, whether a laptop, tablet, mobile phone, or even an IoT device.
There are a number of malware threats you can encounter on the internet. However, we will focus on the most common ones, namely viruses, ransomware and spyware.
Virus
Viruses are a popular malware, often affecting computers and devices. In most cases, they replicate themselves, creating multiple copies of the original code. Cybercriminals mostly spread viruses through email attachments and downloads from unsecured sites.
Ransomware
Ransomware is one of the fastest-growing forms of cybercrime, especially in the form of encrypting files. Once a file has been encrypted, it can’t run on the system, and the user must pay money to the attacker to decrypt the file and regain access.
Spyware
As you may have guessed, spyware is designed to spy on users. It is a malware enabling attackers to access a user’s computer, often without their knowledge. With spyware, hackers can intercept data sent and received, delete files, and record keyboard strokes for sensitive information.
How Can Businesses Protect Themselves?
With cybercrime gaining momentum, businesses must be proactive in protecting their assets against any possible threat. Here are some ways you can secure your business against malware:
1. Work with a Digital Brand Protection Company
Secure your business against malware by enlisting the help of a digital brand protection company. They can assist with keeping your business safe and preventing harm and loss to your brand.
After all, online security is vital to a business’s success, and any reputable digital brand protection company has the skills and knowledge needed to keep your business safe.
These digital teams are a one-stop-shop for all things cyber security, from digital forensics to brand protection.
2. Implement a Robust Cyber Security Policy
You could spend countless hours making sure your business is secure from all kinds of threats, but the best way to do that is by having a cyber security policy in place.
A cyber security policy reduces the risk of data and cyber theft, covering all the possible cyber threats a business may face.
Additionally, a cyber security policy is enforceable, giving employees a clear understanding of what is expected of them when protecting the company’s digital assets.
3. Solicit Security Training and Awareness
Providing security training and awareness is an extension of your cyber security policy. Once the policy is in place, training becomes the next step.
However, teaching employees about protecting the company’s digital assets doesn’t stop there. You should also include training them on what to do if they become victims of cybercrime.
Aside from protecting the company’s digital assets, employee training should also discuss what your team should do if they fall victim to malware.
As you can see, malware is a major threat to the digital landscape. While there are several different types, the real danger is they can infect just about any device.
With malware, the possibilities are endless, as there isn’t a particular goal. However, they can affect a business in many ways, ranging from data breaches to financial loss.
The best way to guard yourself against unwanted attacks is to work with a digital brand protection company to help secure your business. FraudWatch is a leading brand protection company that has been diligently keeping brands safe since its inception in 2003. We offer protection from phishing, malware, and social media and mobile apps impersonation. Contact us today to defend your business from malware.