How do I protect my business from Computer Hackers?
I think we can all agree that the instances and likelihood of you being hacked is increasing every day. Internet Live Stats reports over 50,000 websites globally are now hacked every single day. So how do you best protect your business?
In this blog, we look at what computer hackers do; how they find you and what they are able to do to your systems; and what are the things you can do right now to better protect your business and websites from this increasing threat.
We also provide useful links for more information at the end of the blog.
What do Computer Hackers do?
Computer hackers are unauthorised users who break into computer systems with deliberate intent to steal, change or destroy information. They often do this by installing dangerous software (called malware) without you even knowing. They are pretty clever and have in-depth technical knowledge that enables them to access information you really don’t want them to have.
How do computer hackers find me?
If you use a computer or laptop that’s connected to the Internet, then you’re susceptible to the threats that computer hackers pose. These online hackers typically use phishing scams, spam email or instant messages and bogus Web sites to deliver dangerous software (malware) to your computer and compromise your computer security. If your computer network is not protected by a firewall, computer hackers can also try to access your PC as well as private information directly.
What can computer hackers do to me?
If a computer hacker has surreptitiously installed malware onto your PC while your computer was connected to the Internet, he/she can use this malware to transmit your personal or financial information to them without your knowledge. They might do all or any of the following:
• Make purchases from your bank accounts
• Get into your email programs like Gmail; yahoo; Hotmail, for example. They hijack your username and password; create new passwords; and start targeting your friends and family via emails sent as you. Usually, you will first know about this when a friend contacts you about a suspicious email they received from you; or when you find your normal password no longer works to access your account.
• Steal money from your existing bank accounts and open credit card and bank accounts in your name
• Ruin your credit
• Request new account Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) or additional credit cards
• Make purchases
• Sell your information to other parties who will use it for illicit or illegal purposes
Not sure what you need?
Why not try out our FREE IT Needs Analysis for your business. Valued at $195, we’re currently offering a free consultation to help you understand what suits your business best (and is an economical solution).
OR alternatively, read more here about our Data Security offers at Netlogyx. These include Managed Data Backup, Managed Anti-virus and Managed Anti-spam solutions.
How will I know if my computer has been hacked?
There are a few obvious signs:
• Your normal password to your bank accounts, business or personal emails no longer works
• Your friends contact you saying they’ve received a suspicious email from your account (usually asking for money)
• You are unable to access your computer (some latest opportunist hackers will hack your computer or website and ask for a ransom to be paid to ‘unlock’ your files or website and release them back to you)
Who do computer hackers target the most?
Like robbers who are likely to target a house with open windows and no dogs, computer hackers usually go for the easiest target when looking who to attack online.
• Businesses and websites more susceptible than others include:
• Those without a 2-way firewall on their network
• A computer or computer network without anti-virus protection
• A computer or computer network that doesn’t have the latest operating system installed
• Websites that do not have secure pages on every page
• Business with no internet policy and regular updates to staff on best practices for avoiding security threats.
How do I protect myself and my business from computer hackers?
• Use a 2-way firewall
• Regularly update your operating system
• Increase your browser security settings
• Avoid questionable Web sites
• Only download software from sites you trust. Carefully evaluate free software and file-sharing applications before downloading them.
• Practice safe email protocol
• Don’t open messages from unknown senders
• Delete messages you think might be spam without opening the attachments in them
• Have the best security software installed on your PC
• Use Antivirus protection and keep it updated
• Get antispyware software
If you have any questions or doubts, contact us here at Netlogyx. We are always happy to help – even if it is just to do a check on your systems or answer any further questions you may have.
Not sure what you need?
Why not try out our FREE IT Needs Analysis for your business. Valued at $195, we’re currently offering a free consult to help you understand what suits your business best (and is an economical solution).
OR alternatively, read more here about our Data Security offers at Netlogyx. These include Managed Data Backup, Managed Anti-virus and Managed Anti-spam solutions as well as IT support Services Gold Coast.
Testimonials
“We have been using Netlogyx now for many years and have found them to be honest and reliable with their advice and service.
Netlogyx monitor and maintain our company server and network of laptops and printers and are always available should we need any advice or help.
They are up with all the latest technology and are proactive in keeping ahead of the ever-growing virus threats.
We would have no hesitation in recommending them.
Steven John, Warehouse & Logistics Manager, EzyDog Pty Ltd
“I can testify to the wealth of knowledge and great customer support Neil and his team provide there at Netlogyx.
They have repaired, upgraded and supplied us with several of our computers with excellent support and turnaround times each and every time.
They are good people to know when a crisis such as a virus or similar strikes!