Over the past months, the coronavirus pandemic has undoubtedly changed the world in many ways. Not only has it affected the lives of many, but it has also cultivated a remote-working culture that made people more aware of cyber threats. Before the pandemic happened, people were aware of various online threats and implemented safety protocols to deter them. However, the novel coronavirus has opened the eyes of many to the threats not seen until today.

Typically, after a cyberattack happens, it is only during the ongoing investigation or often later that you find out the true extent of the crime. This meta-ignorance is the challenge that prevents organizations and individuals from being immune to unknown threats. Moreover, the extensive globalization and digitalization connect the challenges of a pandemic to the challenges faced today.

Due to a more complex global digital footprint, organizations have higher risk exposure. Cybercriminals have now found it easier and lucrative to attack service providers and let malware spread across multiple customer networks all over the world. This is widespread now, especially that many people are now forced to use devices to work from home. As a result, many hackers have started leveraging the crisis for phishing and other forms of attack online.

With the ever-changing digital landscape and the increasing number of businesses and individuals going online today due to the pandemic, how can you protect yourself?

 

1. Understand How Phishing Works

 

Phishing is a popular and effective technique for cyber attackers today; it is the top threat action used in cybersecurity breaches. To reduce the risk of this threat, you and your staff must have a deeper understanding of how it works and how to avoid it. There must also be a quick way to alert your IT security team so that they can prevent further disruptions and data loss.

 

2.Invest In Cybersecurity Training

 

Remote work has opened the door to risks posed by unknown Wi-Fi networks, wireless printers, and similar technologies. This is why you must invest in cybersecurity training that will discuss best practices for remote work, such as router security, use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), and IT support.

 

3.Ensure Collaboration Tools Are Secure

 

Since everyone in your team will be collaborating online, you need to ensure the collaboration tools that you use are secure. These tools can be the online meeting service you use or a team management platform. Make sure that every software or platform has built-in security features, such as password protection and various settings to control other participants’ capabilities.

 

The global pandemic is a wake-up call that economies must learn how to adapt quickly to survive and thrive. It has shed light on how everyone is dependent on technology, which exposes us to the digital world’s vulnerabilities. Because of this, continuous vigilance is the ultimate lesson that everyone has to learn amid a deadly virus that has grasped the entire world today.

 

Everyone is hoping that this is only a once-in-a-lifetime event, but remember that the world will continuously be dependent on technology in the future. This is why everyone must continue to ensure that they are safe online, as well as all their information. Take these lessons and steps to build better security for your company’s future as you venture into the digital world.

 

Here at Fraud Watch International, we can help you with protection against phishing through our anti-phishing software. We strive to protect you and customers to reduce financial losses due to phishing websites. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help!