In the past few years, thousands of commercial data thefts have stolen personal information from billions of people and uploaded to a hacker’s watchlist. When their hardware or software provides protection, people often forget about safety and are careless with security. A data breach can occur because of outdated technology, human mistakes, viruses, or theft. You should know all potential hacks or weak spots in your security. Regular updates are a great place to start.
So the answer to the above question is, yes, you are more than likely being watched by hackers who are attempting to break into your business.
Older Hardware and Software
Since they no longer receive regular security upgrades and patches, outdated hardware and software raise the risk of intrusions. Because older operating systems are not receiving patches, hackers target the devices running them because they are more exposed. Another problem that might arise when employing obsolete equipment is not adhering to the most recent Wi-Fi protocol standards. As hackers love to observe, this suggests that the device is probably not receiving a secure connection. That could leave you wide open to getting hacked.
Human Error
Without factoring in human error, this list would not be complete. People are both a company’s greatest asset and its greatest liability. Why? Because of our various flaws, we frequently allow things to happen by mistake. Unfortunately, these mishaps can destroy a company. For example, an employee might send sensitive information to the incorrect person, weak passwords are not safe, and many people fall prey to phishing schemes. To avoid these issues, you must invest in personnel education and fundamental data security training to avoid being on a hacker’s watchlist.
Malware Dangers
You could become infected by malware breaches when you least expect it. It’s as easy as believing the email link is safe, so you’ll click on it. You reply with an attachment to that Facebook message. Your “boss” sends you an email, and you reply like you usually do. From that point on, everything gets worse. The main problem with malware is that hackers always find new ways to cause trouble. For instance, some malware can evade detection by your antivirus because of the coding used to compress it. A program’s copies can become infected. When clicked, it immediately decrypts. Polymorphic malware frequently changes its appearance through packing and encrypting techniques. We can reduce this hazard by using adequate virus protection, storing backups, and training our employees.
Possibilities of Theft
There is also always a chance of physical theft. A business suffers irreparable damage when a customer or an employee quits. Consider what information is available to your best employee if they decide to quit tomorrow because of a change of heart. Data may become compromised if a backup and recovery device is not in place. Of course, criminals are opportunistic and will choose the easiest route. To protect yourself, be sure your data is secure and regularly backed up.
Password Hygiene
Most of us use simple passwords, and we re-use the same password over many logins. You can prevent hackers from accessing your account by changing your password regularly. Limit the damage to your account by updating your password at the first sign of an attack. Regularly changing your password improves overall security, so it’s a good habit to have. In data breaches, stolen credentials are often outdated, if you’re lucky.
Is Your Phone Safe From A Hacker’s Watchlist?
Any device you use can be hacked. Hackers will break into smartphones and use them to make overseas calls, send texts, and browse the Internet using your data. And since your phone bill will not be paid by them, they aren’t concerned about your data usage or how many minutes they rack up. And if you have business contacts or sensitive data stored on your phone, that can be stolen too.
Are you making your business vulnerable to any of these invitations to a breach? We can assist you in locking the doors.
