What You Need to Know to Keep Malware from Being a Problem

Every day, cybercriminals wake up and choose violence. 

Whether it’s a nasty strain of ransomware demanding a king’s ransom or a sneaky little virus that just wants to watch your business burn, the threats never stop coming. That’s why locking down your business is as essential as putting cream in your morning coffee.

Malware is a Problem

Hackers are getting creative, and unfortunately, they’re not using their talents for the good of others. Here’s some strains of malware they are using today:

• AI-powered malware - Hackers now have malware that can think. It learns from security defenses, adapts, and attacks again. It’s like an evil chatbot, except instead of answering questions, it’s stealing your data.
• Ransomware-as-a-Service - Hacking has gone mainstream. Now, even tech-challenged criminals can buy ransomware campaigns like they’re ordering takeout. No skills required, just a credit card and a lack of ethical standards.
• Zero-day attacks - These are security holes that software developers don’t even know exist until a hacker finds them first. It’s like leaving your house keys under the doormat; except you didn’t know there was a doormat.
• Fileless malware - No sketchy downloads needed. This malware sneaks in through legitimate programs like a spy disguised as an intern.

How to Keep Your Business from Becoming a Headline

Now that you know what’s out there, here’s how to make hackers regret picking your business as a target.

• Update your software - If you ignore the notifications telling you to upgrade, you might as well leave your front door wide open with a neon “C’mon in!” sign.
• Use antivirus software - Get an enterprise-grade antivirus, keep it updated, and let it fight the good fight. It’s cheaper than recovering from a breach.
• Train your employees - Your team can be your strongest defense or your weakest link. Teach them how to spot phishing scams before they click on that urgent email from a Nigerian prince.
• Back up your data - When ransomware hits, you’ll have two choices: pay up or restore from a backup. Choose wisely; one keeps your money, and the other funds a hacker’s tropical vacation.
• Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) - Even if hackers steal your password, they won’t get far without that second layer of security. It’s like a bouncer for your login page.

Hackers Don’t Take Days Off

If cybercriminals see an easy target, they won’t hesitate to pounce. Don’t give them the satisfaction. Thinking you’re too small to be hacked is like saying you’re too small for mosquitoes to bite you on a humid day in summer. 

Would you like to step up your defenses against malware and other threats? Call OnSite I.T. today at (403) 210-2927. We’ll help you lock things down before hackers make you their next victim.