What Are The Top Network Security Issues And Concerns?
Network Security is becoming an increasingly serious concern for individuals, businesses, and governments alike. In a world where everything is digital, from cute kitten videos to travel journals to credit card information, ensuring our data security is one of the most difficult challenges of Network Security. Network Security threats come in a variety of forms, including ransomware, phishing attacks, and malware attacks. Listed below are most common types of network security issues and concerns 1. Ransomware Attacks Ransomware attacks have grown in popularity in recent years. According to Netlogyx, approximately 82% of IT organizations around the world have been impacted by ransomware in the last six months. Ransomware attacks encrypt a user’s data and prevent them from accessing it until a ransom is paid. Ransomware attacks are critical for individual users, but even more so for businesses unable to access data necessary for day-to-day operations. However, in most ransomware attacks, the attackers refuse to release the data even after payment is made, preferring to extort additional money. Regular network security audits are necessary in order to prevent this type of ransomware attack. 2. IOT Attacks IoT Analytics predicts that there will be approximately 11.6 billion IoT devices. The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to computing, digital, and mechanical devices capable of transmitting data autonomously over a network. Desktops, laptops, mobile phones, and smart security devices are all examples of IoT devices. As the adoption of IoT devices accelerates, so do the network security challenges. By attacking IoT devices, sensitive user data can be compromised. Protecting IoT devices is a significant challenge in Network Security, as gaining access to these devices can facilitate the launch of additional malicious attacks. For the prevention of this kind of IOT attack, regular network security audits are necessary. 3. Cloud Attacks Today, the majority of us rely on cloud services for personal and professional purposes. Additionally, hacking cloud-based platforms to steal user data is a challenge for businesses’ Network Security. We are all familiar with the infamous iCloud hack, which exposed celebrities’ private photos. If such an attack is launched against enterprise data, it poses a significant threat to the organization and may even result in its demise. 4. Phishing Attacks Phishing is a social engineering attack that is frequently used to steal user data, such as usernames and passwords and credit card numbers. Unlike ransomware attacks, the hacker does not immediately delete the user’s confidential data upon gaining access. Rather than that, they use it for their gains, such as online shopping and unauthorized money transfers. Phishing attacks are popular among hackers because they exploit a user’s data until the user discovers it. 5. Attacks on Blockchain and Cryptocurrency While blockchain and cryptocurrency may be unfamiliar to the average internet user, they are critical to businesses. Thus, attacks on these frameworks present significant challenges for businesses in terms of Network Security, as they can compromise customer data and business operations. These technologies have progressed beyond their infancy but have not yet reached an advanced stage of security. As a result, organizations must be aware of the security risks associated with these technologies and ensure network security audits exist for intruders to exploit. 6. Vulnerabilities in Software Even the most sophisticated software contains vulnerabilities that could pose significant challenges to Network Security in 2020, given the increased adoption of digital devices. Individuals and businesses generally avoid updating the software on these devices because they believe it is unnecessary. However, updating the software on your device to the latest version should be a priority. An older version of software may contain patches for security vulnerabilities that the developers have addressed in a subsequent version. Attacks on unpatched software versions are a significant source of concern for Network Security.
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A Quick Guide On Cyber Security Training In The Northern Rivers
Cybersecurity Overview As a discipline, cyber security involves the practice of preventing malicious cyberattacks against devices, networks, programs, and data. Malware and phishing scams are two of the most common cyberattacks, in which the cyber criminal pretends to be a reputable person or entity to steal confidential information. Cyberattacks can have serious consequences for your business and your clients. Infections caused by malware, for instance, can compromise your computer networks and disrupt business operations. In addition, identity theft may result from data leaks. As a result, your clients may become victims of phishing attacks or become instruments for insurance fraud. In addition, your company may lose its credibility. Guide for Cybersecurity Training in the Northern Rivers Netlogyx are experts in the cyber security field and will ensure that your employees receive cybersecurity training on common threats and best practices. Netlogyx would include the following topics to avoid unpleasant surprises and ensure that business will continue as usual: Avoiding Malware Classics are considered timeless. One of the most common and effective cyber attack methods is malware, which appears to be true. The consequences of using malicious software are incalculable. Links, files, and software that contain viruses can corrupt your files, destroy your applications, send spam, destroy your data, or even seriously damage your computer network. The employees should learn how malware enters a computer and the lesser-known ways in which it does so. Using Public Wifi A person with basic hacking skills can break into a public wifi network if they have the “right” tools. The rest is uphill from there. While you are using the network, the hacker can observe and interfere with your activities. Passwords can be stolen, malware can be installed, and money may be sent to them. More skilled cybercriminals can even create and control fake wireless networks that appear to be public. During the commute, employees may work, answer emails from the airport, or work from a coffee shop on a Saturday. Teach your employees how to identify fake wifi networks and use public wifi securely to help reduce the risk of infection and data theft. Managing passwords effectively You might expect your employees to know better than to set their passwords to 123456. However, the said complex combination is the most popular password today. Therefore, there is a need for some of us to distinguish weak passwords from strong passwords. It is also imperative that employees let go of some unsafe practices, such as using the same password across all their accounts, disclosing their passwords, or storing them in their top drawers in a secure manner. Additionally, a password manager can simplify remembering multiple passwords, while two-factor authentication can strengthen security. Social engineering and spotting scams Scams, hoaxes, phishing attacks, and social engineering attacks all serve one purpose: to convince you to give your personal information. In addition, criminals often employ impersonation and a sense of urgency to manipulate their victims. Many of them go so far as to talk to them on the telephone or meet them in person. Most impersonation attacks are believable and successful, except scams, which are generally ridiculous emails offering free vacations or the like. Providing proper device security It is possible to put cybersecurity at risk even before an employee turns on their computer and begins browsing the web. Therefore, employees must understand how they can protect their own devices and company-issued devices, even when not online. Observe safe practices when using social media Social media allows us to share information about our work and personal lives without thinking twice. Unfortunately, due to this tendency to overshare, cybercriminals use social media to prepare and execute social engineering attacks. Therefore, your employees should avoid interacting with unknown accounts or sharing any information about your company in their personal or professional profiles. Data security and protection Sensitive data is an all-encompassing term that encompasses everything from account passwords and customer information to future marketing strategies and trade secrets. If you leak sensitive information, you may lose the trust of your customers, significant amounts of money, and even your competitive advantage. Therefore, data security must also be addressed during the introduction to cyber security training in the Northern Rivers by Netlogyx. The employees should first be aware of which data qualifies as sensitive and how it can be further classified and also be knowledgeable regarding storage and handling sensitive data. The team at Netlogyx are expert in the cyber security field and should be your first call for all your cyber security training in the Northern rivers.
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Top Reasons You Should Conduct Network Security Audit
For many business owners, cybersecurity is something that is not often at the forefront of business operations. The fact is business owners and managers focus on the processes that make them money and grow the business. Cybersecurity does not make you money, however, it can cost you money if not implemented properly. Even worse, it can cost your reputation. This is why conducting a network security audit is essential for your business. What is a network security audit? A network security audit is essentially an evaluation of the network on which they are built. This means auditing and reviewing their operating systems, security policies, frameworks, and potential security faults. A network security audit occurs when a specialized IT company or individual will analyse all the previously mentioned aspects of a company, along with their performance on the network, and can even suggest ways to improve safety and efficiency. How are they completed? Every IT specialist company has their own specific methods of conducting a network security audit, however, the team at NetlogyxIT are known for their world-class service and workmanship. In terms of network security auditing processes, some of these would include: • Device & Platform Identification • Security Policy & Security Architecture Review • Risk Assessment • Firewall Configuration Review • Penetration Testing (Attempted Hacking) All the processes listed above are what comprises a strong network security audit. The team at Netlogyx will conduct the highest level of testing on your companies’ network security. Why conduct an audit? Why does my company need a network security audit? Why should I do it? These are questions that business owners may ask themselves when speaking with the team at Netlogyxit. Here are a few reasons why. Any business owner out there wants one thing, that is growth. A growing business means more revenue and more profit. However, when your business is growing, you are often adding more hardware and software to your business network. During rapid growth periods, the last thing you’re thinking about is conducting a network security audit, instead, you are focusing on keeping up with your business demands. Another reason for conducting a network security audit is to figure out where your weaknesses lie in terms of security. Knowing where your network is vulnerable is key information, which then allows you to strengthen those areas and ensure they are not exposed by cybercriminals. Adding to this, by strengthening your weak points, you are greatly reducing the chances of being breached and not being able to operate your business. In the world of cybersecurity, it is almost impossible to guarantee your network is safe, however by conducting network security audits with Netlogyxit, you are giving yourself a much stronger chance of being safe. Finally, by conducting audits, you can know that you have taken the right steps in protecting your confidential information from potential threats.
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Importance Of Network Security Audit To Avoid Business Vulnerabilities
The cyber world is full of opportunities for everyone on the planet, with equal internet access for cybercriminals, so a network security audit is vital for your protection. Cybercriminals are just as sophisticated as most search engines and take only a fraction of a second to search your network defenses to find any weaknesses and exploit them. Large companies with seemingly bottomless budgets, were up until recently cybercriminals main targets, but they are carefully guarded so the cybercriminal market have moved its attention to smaller easily penetrated areas. Because of the ever present threat of security breaches IT specialists are constantly checking monitoring and creating new ways to prevent potential threats. What a network security audit does A network audit checks your whole network security system including its hardware, software, apps, data storage and recovery as well as everyone who has access to your network and their devices looking for areas that could become security issues including: • Checking to ensure all components are configured correctly and properly working • Ensuring all components of your networking systems have the latest updates installed • They examine the data flow in and out of your business to see if your system needs modification or safety improvements • They take a very close look at the types of processes and technologies your using for anti-data theft • The audit will make an in depth and thorough analysis of your IT practices and those of everyone who has access to your network with a view to the improvement of security • They will recommend different options to leverage IT security from your existing assets and the measures you need to take and which are the right tools you need for your particular unique operation • Find any areas that need modification or replacement with new and more appropriate options An advantage of having a regular network security audit is that you have a specialist technician with an entirely fresh outlook checking your IT security system and protective measures. This often helps to locate areas that have been missed or neglected. Part of the network security audit is about testing the effectiveness of your whole system and checking for such things as any unauthorized or forgotten wireless network systems or interference that could pose a future risk. Your network security audit will provide you with a detailed report on the health of your IT security system and any measures and changes you need to implement to provide a more secure networking environment. This may mean you need to change some or all of your security polices and standards. The threat of cyber attacks, data theft and malicious attacks designed to modify your computer programs and coding, often with disastrous and damaging consequences will always be part of life on the internet. Everyone needs to take the appropriate measures to eliminate security weaknesses and possible breaches such as having a regular network audit made on your business systems to minimise the risk of cyber threats with cost effective and reliable technologies by a reliable and competent IT provider.
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What Is The Importance Of Network Security Audit?
A network security audit is designed to find areas in your network that may be venerable to attack by hackers or cybercriminals. It’s usually offered by IT managed service providers to ensure the integrity of your network. A thorough investigation is made of your cybersecurity assets and policies as well as they way you apply them to ensure you’re not at risk of a security breach. The exact method will vary depending on your network operation and they type of website you have, but the basic steps are similar to: • Asset Identification The first thing that must be done is to identify all your network assets including the devices of all people who access to it. The operating systems of all users must be checked and analyzed • Security policy reviews Reviewing who has access to which areas of your network and accessing whether other parties are a security breach. Making sure all the relevant standards are being used and analyses the technologies, controls and uses of the various devices • Updates Ensures that all manufacturers updates of hardware, software and apps are current and working • Risk Assessment Looks at assessing the possible risks and or threats to your business and what impact they could have. Placing of safety nets in case of breaches to minimise any damage and downtimes. Then prioritise all possible threat controls from the largest threat with the simplest fix to the threat that’s the most difficult to remedy • Firewall Configuration review Your network security audit will involve reviewing your fire wall, its configured and ensure it meets the latest protocols and how it deals with remote access • Penetration testing This is a test of all your security measures, where the auditors use the latest techniques to try every possible way to break your security in order to find any weaknesses that may have been missed so they can fix these issues After your network security audit has been completed the auditors will provide you a detailed report that explains any issues they found and the remedies they used to settle these issues. This report is very important because it helps you understand the areas that you need to take particular care in for you future security management and deploy extra measures to keep those areas secure. Network security is a major issue with all businesses from sole traders with none or only one employee to multinational corporations. Cyber criminals are actively searching for website they can corrupt and invade so it’s vital you take every possible precaution to safeguard you network and business. A full network security audit should be done at least once a year for low risk businesses but if you’re dealing with a lot of sensitive information you network is a prime target and should be reviewed and audited on a much more regular basis possibly monthly. A cyberattack or security breach can destroy a business overnight and also leave you open to litigation
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Why Cyber Security Is Important
The modern internet is a vital part of every successful business with billions of dollars being transacted every minute by millions of users. Because of this, it has attracted the attention of society’s criminal element at cyber security, Northern Rivers we can help protect your website and your whole IT network whether you’re an individual or company with many users, Cyber criminals know that cyber crime is extremely profitable and has the advantage that they do not have to expose themselves to commit their crimes as they would in say robbing a bank or committing a home or shop burglary. Cybercrime is a very high profit, low risk industry for anyone with a low sense of right and wrong who wish to steal from others. Everyone who uses the internet is at risk of becoming a victim of the cyber criminal because: Vulnerability The internet is an extremely complicated set of computer codes that allows a multitude of computers to be joined together all across the world. Data and queries can be sent almost instantly anywhere with an instant answer. Unfortunately, the criminal element is also technically advanced and for every advance in cyber crime prevention, they soon come up with a way to get around so we all need to be constantly on guard and implement the new updates for all apps were using as they arrive Cybercriminals are after Cybercriminals are interested in all details such as personally identifiable information, health information, intellectual property, bank account information and credit card information. Some data obtained by cyber criminals may be used by them, but the majority is sold on the black market Simple firewalls and antivirus software are no longer adequate cyber security measures as cybercriminals are very sophisticated and very resourceful and no one can afford to ignore the dangers involved from scams like phishing, ransomware and other forms of malware designed to steal your data or extort money from you in a number of ways. • What is cyber security? Cybersecurity is the process used to protect computer systems, devices, networks and programs from a cyber attack or the process of recovery after a cyber attack. The internet is becoming more popular by the hour with many businesses and individuals no almost totally reliant on it for their livelihood, communication and social needs. Cyrber attacks are increasing rapidly with attackers now using social engineering and artificial intelligence much the same as Google search engines to crawl websites looking for weaknesses and ways to exploit what they find where ever they find it. • Third party danger Many websites with their own elaborate defence systems in place are often let down by third parties they deal with who have not been so vigilant in employing protective protocols, so have unbeknown to themselves, been hacked and pass this on to sites they join or link to • Why is cyber crime increasing? Because of the huge amount of information on the internet and cloud services it is very hard for authorities to detect and stop cybercrime or find the perpetrators as they can easily hide their identities making cyber crime very lucrative and relatively risk free Cyber security, Northern Rivers can help you protect your data and your whole network from the ever present threat of cyber attack which can come from many external sources or even from within your own network, you need to remain forever vigilant and have all systems independently backed up.
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Why It Is Required To Have A Backup Of Your Server
It’s surprising how many people do not bother to backup their server on a regular basis. Although servers are reliable most of the time they are not fail proof. When you consider that all your data could be compromised of destroyed if you don’t have a backup of your server, it’s much better to be prepared for this type of problem as no one knows when disaster may strike. If you have a system failure, computer theft or a natural disaster such as fire or flooding your business could be crippled and once lost data is very hard to get back. These are the main reasons why it’s required that you backup your server • To prevent data loss If your server id damaged or lost for whatever reason the data may never be recovered. You will have lost vital information about your finances, your clients, your customers and suppliers • Data Migration You can save money and time as well as lowering the risk of data loss when transferring files from one computer system to another by using a backup server • Website protection Your website is your public online face, although your web provider will backup your server, you need to backup your whole website and web presence as if you have to restore your site and contents you may have to be off line for several days or more which risks losing customers and sales • Protect your Clients Data If you host a social media website or websites for clients you must backup your server daily, this not only protects your data, but your clients as well. It would be very bad for instilling trust and confidence in customers if you needed to ask for their data again because you failed to backup your server and plan for unforeseen accidents How to backup your server The two main types of server backup are having it done automatically using backup software and the other is manual. Both can be done onsite and or offsite. There are a range of backup software solution available online, some are free while others are a paid for service. The one you choose depends on the volume of data you need to backup and the frequency. Manual backups are more often used as a one off operation done at selected times an automatic server backup can be done on a specific schedule Data Storage When you make a backup for your server, you need to store the data. There are several options from using the cloud to a CD or memory stick. These have different costs, some are easier to use and some are more robust, so some thought is required on which is best for your needs. Most businesses will opt for onsite as well as offsite backup storage so all bases are covered in the event of disasters In most cases, a backup of your server should be made daily, once work is finished. If you have a small business and a low data input, then it could be weekly or monthly, but considering your data is the lifeblood of your business and making a backup could save it and it’s very inexpensive, unless you have a huge amount of data, it should be done as often as is practical.
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How A Network Security Audit Helps Your Business
With almost all businesses now relying heavily on the internet and their computer systems, having a good, competent computer support service on the Gold Coast is imperative. Regular security audits help to reduce the ever present threat of cybercrime and other security breaches that have the potential of damaging a company’s business competitiveness, resources and public trust. These are some of the ways a security audit can help your business • Evaluation of data flow within your business A network security audit will look at the type of information going in and out of your business as well as who has access to it and what security measures are in place. It will ensure all your data is safe, can’t be stolen, lost, mishandled or misused, removing any potential for legal disputes with any parties • Identifying vulnerable areas and problems An audit will identify any potential problem areas in your system or operating methods. This includes checking your hardware and software configurations and ensuring they are working at optimum levels • Identifies problems in security, both internally and externally The audit starts with a pre-audit to check of all relevant documentation from earlier audits and then follows on to current policies and procedures. His enables your whole network and the business to be analyzed and tested for vulnerabilities and necessary improvements. Gives a clear and precise documentation of everything discovered and checked • Gives recommendations on how to use and leverage the technological information gained from your business security It’s important that your security system matches all of the security challenges your business could face as well as educating all users on how to efficiently and accurately implement any new recommendations. This means you are not wasting valuable reserves and time on irrelevant and outdated or inferior security measures. Sets up any necessary firewalls and encrypted codes to safeguard and protect all sensitive data links, personal, employee and customer records and information. The audit will highlight areas of importance and improve the quality of your security for both internal and external networks, including systems used by employee’s at work, in transit or at home such as linked laptops, tablets and phones. Ensures you are compliant with all government and local body licenses, permits, rules and regulations. Your IT network security audit will deliver to you an in depth analysis covering all your IT systems with an easy to understand, detailed, list of all their findings. It will also inform you of any required additional programs you need to introduce and areas that have become obsolete or redundant because of system changes or new technologies. Your IT support company on the Gold Coast will provide a security audit to give you a strategic advantage over other businesses in your area by showing all your suppliers and customers that your company is totally safe and reliable for them to use. Having a network security audit will highlight any areas that may be a potential security breach and offers cost effective and reliable solutions. It will ensure your company’s compliant with all government and local body requirements and give you a comprehensive, but easy to understand written report about the condition of your hardware and software applications with suggestions or the most practical way to improve your network.
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How Password Changing At Frequent Intervals Helps In Maintaining Network Security
There are a lot of people suggest it’s just too much hassle and it’s really not necessary to change passwords regularly. When you consider just how much of your valuable information is stored on your computer, not to mention information that has been given to you on the understanding that you will keep it safe and secure, it becomes important to do everything to keep it secure. Changing passwords is not that big a drama; in fact, it can be very easy, if you use an app designed to generate randomly selected passwords for you. Talk with the guys at Gold Coast IT Solutions about how to get the most secure password generating app for you and your staff’s computers and IT devices. It has been suggested that up to 80 percent of cyber attacks are directly related to having weak passwords or ones that have been stolen. Just changing your password regularly will reduce your risk of being caught out by cyber criminals who are actively trying to get hold of your password Some Major Benefits of Changing Your Passwords Frequently • Limits breaches to Your Accounts Not only is it vital to change your password frequently, it’s vital to have different passwords for every application. Many people have a password that is easy for them to remember they might use a pet’s name or the name of their first car thinking these would be hard for someone to figure out. Then they add, say a number to that password for the next password. Your password may be Holden Kingswood and the next password is Kingswood2 or o2, some people have the exact same password for everything. The problem with this is if discovered, all your devices and computers are able to be hacked and you could lose all your data, have your bank accounts emptied and credit cards maxed out. Cyber criminals use high tech algorithms similar to search engines to run find passwords. They use combinations of words, names, numbers and information about you. The only way that you can avoid them is to have a completely random password and this should be unique to each application and never shared. If you wish someone else to access your app, then have a separate password for them • Prevents Constant or Repeat Access Once a hacker gets your password they may just make very small changes to your system that you don’t at first notice and start a progressive defrauding campaign or they may make a grab for everything at once. Often a hacker once they have your password will keep coming back, so changing your password stops them and reduces the chances of them regaining access • Stops the Use of Saved Passwords If you use more than one computer or change computers, frequently changing your passwords means all old passwords are useless • Stop Keystroke Hacking Keystroke logger surveillance technology records keystrokes when someone logs in to steal passwords. By regularly changing passwords any of them obtained by this method will not be useful for long. Changing your passwords at regularly is important for maintaining your security, the guys at Gold Coast IT Solution will help you find a very cost effective random password selecting app for networking security.
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5 Ways To Maintain Network Security
Security is now a major issue in all your internet activities, personal and internet marketing. Regardless of the size of business or company having a regular network security audit is one of the best ways to properly maintain your network security, keeping you and your data safe and secure. Five ways you can insure you have the best possible network security are: 1. Install and Monitor a Firewall This is a series of rules that are designed to control all inward as well as outward network traffic. It allows computers or networks to access your system if they follow your rules and if they don’t, access is denied. Because hackers are becoming more sophisticated, firewalls are also having to. Often networks use a number of systems working in tandem to increase your network security 2. Regular Password Updates It’s vital that all your passwords are updated regularly. Passwords need to be randomly and electronically generated,so there is no possibility of them being discovered. Cyber criminals now use very complex algorithms to sniff out passwords using all the information on the web. This means they need to be totally random, but also need to be securely stored. 3. Maintain the latest AntiVirus Software In order for anti-virus software to stay ahead of hackers who are constantly trying to crack their codes, you need to constantly update or upgrade. It’s also necessary to ensure all those who have access to your networks are aware of the things they need to look out for to avoid hackers. 4. Create Your Own (VPN) Virtual Private Network Have a total network security audit and then create your own VPN. This means that your whole network is only available for computers and those in your system, whether they are close or in another location. It’s very hard for hackers to gain access as you have eliminated their entrance ways. 5. Training and Best Practices The best strategy for overcoming cyber crime and security issues is to be sure all members of your company are well educated in all aspects of network security. Even the best up to date network security systems will not prevent security breaches from determined, cyber criminals or human error. Having your staff well trained with frequent educational meetings and training is the best method of maintaining your network security. Having a managed service provider allows you to utilize the latest software and technology without having to break the budget as well as having your staff fully trained in the correct use and best practice procedures. Managed IT providers give you a complete monitored system 24/7 so you can be sure in the event of breakdowns or security issues they will be resolved quickly. Maintaining security in your business is critical, a proper network security audit should be carried out periodically in the same way installing and monitoring a suitable firewall will keep your network secure? Many businesses and even individuals neglect to have regular password updates or maintain their anti-virus software, leaving themselves open to cyber crime and security issues. Taking advantage of an IT service provider and creating your own virtual private network along with complete staff training and familiarization will ensure you use the best internet practices to keep your network secure.
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