What is Cyber Security?

As a business owner, you have a lot to think about on any given day. However, one area you can’t overlook or ignore is protecting your company against harm and threats online. This is where cyber security comes into play. It’s in your best interest to learn more about the topic since cyber threats and attacks are continuously on the rise around the globe.

You may have heard the term in passing but aren’t quite sure or knowledgeable about what is cyber security and the different types of threats. You’re in the right place to learn more about what it is, how it can benefit you, and the steps you can take to future-proof your company. It’s a good starting point so that you feel well-informed to make wise business decisions about cyber security at your company.

So, cyber security what is it? The first matter of business is to learn more about what cyber security is and what is cyber security meaning. Generally speaking, it’s the practice or motion of defending servers, computers, networks, mobile devices, electronic systems, and data from any type of malicious or unwanted attack.

You may also hear it referred to as information technology security. Just about all companies or businesses need it these days to remain safe and protected. There are a few common categories that it may be a part of such as network security, information security, operational security, and disaster recovery and business continuity.

What is A Cyber Attack?

A cyber attack on your business or online is an attempt by a hacker to destroy or damage a computer network or system intentionally. It’s an offensive and targeted maneuver with the intent to steal your information and wreak havoc. It’s quite a messy problem to have to address and clean up. You may not only lose valuable and important information during an attack but it can also lead to the loss of money and tarnishing of your company’s reputation.

It’s when an unauthorised user gains access to your computer systems or network as well as to confidential information. The reality is that the threat of cyber attacks continues to rise daily and around the globe. What it requires is constant and around-the-clock monitoring of all electronic resources.

Types of Threats

You should be aware that there are multiple and different types of threats when it comes to a cyber security attack. Knowing about these in more detail can help you better protect yourself so you can avoid them happening to you and at your workplace. There’s even a difference between a cyber attack which usually involves a move of gathering information that’s politically motivated and cybercrime which is generally a single actor or a group of hackers that target systems and cause disruption for financial gain.

The following are some of the most common types of threats you should know about:

• Malware: This is malicious software that disrupts your computer and may be implemented via an email attachment or legitimate-looking download.
• Virus: A virus infects your files with malicious code and quickly spreads throughout your computer system.
• Trojans: Disguised as legitimate software, this malware tricks you into uploading something to your computer that can damage it and collect data.
• Spyware: This secretly records what you’re doing on your computer so hackers can steal your credit card information, for example.
• Ransomware: Your files and data will be locked down until you pay a ransom.
• Adware: Malware is spread using advertising software.
• Botnets: A cybercriminal will perform tasks online without the user’s permission using a network of malware.

Furthermore, you may see SQL injections, man-in-the-middle attacks, or denial-of-service attacks in your lifetime. Another more common cyber attack is called phishing. It’s often used to get people’s credit card data or personal information using emails that look like they are coming from a legitimate company.

Some of the most recent or latest cyber threats include Dridex malware, Romance scams, and Emotet malware. Dridex is a financial Trojan with a range of capabilities, Romance scams involve gathering personal information through dating sites, and Emotet is a sophisticated Trojan that can steal data and thrive on weak passwords.

Benefits of Cyber Security

Another question to ask is what does a cyber security do exactly. Although it can require your time and effort, there are many benefits that come with using and applying cyber security best practices at your workplace. It’s well worth it in the end so that you can avoid being the victim of one of the cyber attacks above.

For starters, you’ll gain the advantage of being able to protect your data from unauthorised users and better protect intellectual property. You may also avoid financial fraud this way which will help you sleep easier at night. One of the greatest benefits of cyber security and taking it seriously is that it improves customer confidence and builds trust. You can use it as a way to gain brand trust and boost your reputation all while protecting against external and internal threats.

Not only can it help and save your reputation but it offers value and cost savings to your business. It also allows your employees to work safely and for your company to run smoothly throughout the year. You’ll not only lose time and struggle to reach your goals if you have to deal with a cyber attack at your company but it’s going to cost you.

Risks of Doing Nothing

As a business person and leader, you likely always pay attention to risks and what happens if you don’t comply or take action. There are risks that come with doing nothing as it relates to cyber security and you should be very mindful of these. Lack of proper protection and outdated software can make it harder to do your job and you may be more prone to disruptions and delays. In the situation that you don’t have proper measures in place, your files can be altered, copied, and even destroyed.

You may not only be inconvenienced but you run the real risk of being shut down completely. Without it, you’re leaving your business vulnerable to a range of malicious attacks and hackers and they’ll see you as an easy target. You must be able to protect sensitive information to run your business and ensure happy customers. Overall, you will likely be faced with a host of consequences if you choose to not take action and ignore the importance of cyber security.

If word gets out that your company isn’t protecting your information, data, and customers then it can be damaging to your business. Consumers will choose to do business elsewhere and may never return.

Future Proofing Your Company

The good news is that there are steps you can take to future-proof your company against attacks. Now let’s take the time to review what is cyber essentials so that you can ensure you have them at your business. Protecting yourself entails following a few best practices and safety tips that will give you a better chance of keeping hackers and attackers away.

Always update your software and operating system as well as using anti-virus software. You should make it a point to use strong passwords yourself and enforce this message with your employees too. Also, never open email attachments or click links from unknown senders. Finally, avoid using unsecured WiFi networks in public places. Cyber security needs to be built into your company culture, be a part of your business plan, and woven throughout all that you do in the workplace to work right.

It all starts by educating yourself and your employees about cyber security and cyber attacks and knowing how to best prevent these instances from occurring. End-user education is yet another important step in helping to minimise the risk of falling victim to an attack at your workplace. When it comes to the matter of what is cyber security degree, you don’t necessarily have to have one to future-proof your company.

Instead, you can hire outside help and work with a professional IT company that can ensure your business remains protected and all software is up to date.

Conclusion

You should now have a solid understanding of what is cyber security and how it works. As you now realise, there are many benefits to implementing cyber security safety measures and best practices at your company. Without it, you’re putting your business and all you’ve worked so hard for at risk. You’ll feel a lot less stress and anxiety when you address cyber security at your workplace and make this matter a top priority.

Remember that if you require help in this area of running your business there are IT specialists and companies that can lend a hand. You likely need to focus on running your company and want trusted people on your team that can handle the IT side of your business. Therefore, don’t hesitate to hire IT professionals who can get the job done right and well.