When we think of a data security breach, we may imagine a hidden hacker in a dusky basement, or a team of advanced cyber criminals using tech-savvy tools to take over the world like in a sci-fi movie. However, businesses should be aware that the biggest danger to their data security is often within their walls. While cyber-attackers are becoming increasingly advanced, the majority of the risk is caused by employees, either from lack of training or inadequate data security policies.
Despite our best efforts, we are all liable to make mistakes, and cybersecurity is no exception. A research conducted by IBM reported that the leading source of 95% of cyberattacks is caused by human blunders.
The potential for human mistakes to cause harm to our company’s information security is practically limitless, yet a few of these errors are more frequent than the others. Here are five of the most common errors seen.
1. Passwords
Passing on passwords to other people, utilizing the same code for multiple accounts, or having an unsecured password is an invitation for cyber-criminals, who are getting more creative and employing increasingly advanced methods to get this information.
Employees should always follow these rules when it comes to passwords:
- Ensure there are no recognizable words or identifiable details such as birthdays or last names.
- According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), the length of a password is a major component in determining its security strength, so avoid short passwords.
- Employ a mixture of characters including numbers, letters, upper and lower cases, and symbols.
- Password generators can be used to ensure every password accessing systems or networks is unique.
- Always have multi-factor authentication enabled, which is a security measure that requires two or more proofs of identity to grant access.
- A password manager can securely store passwords to prevent unauthorized access to systems
- Employees should utilize passwords on every device they use to gain access to company data, including mobile devices.
2. Phishing email scams
Human negligence is a prevalent source of security breaches in organizations, so it is imperative to educate employees regarding malicious social engineering schemes such as phishing email scams. These attacks are disguised as genuine email that looks like it is sent from a reliable source. The email will ask employees to take measures that divulge confidential information, which is then taken or exploited to demand money.
3. Personal device use
In recent times, the trend of working from home has grown significantly, making it advantageous to use personal gadgets for work-related tasks. However, this poses a security danger, as personal devices may be more susceptible to cyber-attacks. Additionally, there is the risk of these devices being sold or improperly disposed of. When personal devices are connected to a company’s network, this could result in the potential spread of malicious software within the business.
4. Unsecured network access
Connecting to a business network and its data while using a public Wi-Fi connection is an unsafe practice, as it can lead to hackers intercepting, or even stealing, confidential information or login credentials. Employees who are no longer working in the office due to remote working, especially if they are traveling frequently or usually using public networks, should be very careful. It is essential to take the necessary measures to protect the network, such as employing a Virtual Private Network (VPN) and making sure that all data is encrypted when it is sent and when it is stored.
5. Lack of employee security awareness
Generally speaking, staff members don’t aim to put their business at risk of being hacked or having its data compromised; these events generally happen as a result of unawareness of security protocols. To make sure your organization’s personnel are up to date with regards to security hazards and how they can be responsible for reducing malicious activity and security risks, provide them with cybersecurity awareness training.
Boost your business security with the experts
It is essential to remember that you employed your staff to develop your business, not to put it at risk due to careless security procedures. By utilizing the correct policies and tools, you can guard your company from cybercriminals as well as those who work within the business. Aquarius IQ’s cybersecurity specialists can guarantee that your employees are not the most vulnerable part of the security chain while still consolidating your business IT security for a more secure future.
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