Small Business Defense: How to Protect from Hackers

Cybercrime is up more than 400% in the last several years because, for hackers, the increase in remote-access work presented easy opportunities for cyberattacks. In addition, the transition to work-from-home had many businesses grappling with inconsistent or very limited cybersecurity protocols. For these reasons, the target landscape for cybercriminals has grown dramatically, as have their AI-assisted hacking capabilities.

What is Hacking?

Hacking is a process that involves compromising devices and networks to gain unauthorized access to an account or system, generally for monetary gain. Some will hack to make political statements, avenge a perceived wrong or simply to mess with “the system,” but usually it’s about the cash. In all cases, hacking, by definition, is unauthorized.

Q: How important is software updating and patching?

A: Keeping software up to date is critical in defending against hackers, who often exploit known vulnerabilities in outdated software to gain access to systems. Small businesses should enable automatic updates on all operating systems, antivirus programs and applications, or regularly schedule manual updates to ensure all patches are applied promptly.

What Are the Common Types of Hacks?

Hacking is often done with malicious intent related to illegal activities such as stealing or “kidnapping” private data or funds. Phishing is the most common method of hacking. Phishing attacks are launched by luring the user to click on a link or enter private data using a wide variety of techniques such as fear, urgency and intimidation:

• An email might warn you that an unauthorized entity has repeatedly attempted to log into your account, and you should re-enter your personal information
• A fake invoice attached to an email might demand payment
• A text message could ask you to reconfirm payment information on a page disguised to look like a trusted website
• An email might claim that you are eligible for some type of government refund
• An email offer might offer free merchandise if you “Click Here!”
• An email or text might look as if it came from a trusted friend and direct you to a malicious link

Phishing isn’t the only tool in the hacker’s toolbox. Other types of hacks include:

• Viruses and Trojan Software – Almost everyone has some level of virus protection installed on their devices. Free software is insufficient to protect business networks. However, it is more important than ever to have regular virus scans and assessments and use software that continuously updates virus definitions and includes live security operations center monitoring
• Key Logging – Tricks the user into downloading an app that logs every keystroke they make. As a result, it can record passwords, financial data, etc. Key logging is a very invasive hack and can even detect password changes after a breach is detected
• ClickJacking – A button on a message or website is disguised to look like something you can feel safe clicking. This approach relies on the impulse to “click”
• Fake Wireless Endpoints – A connection point offers a name that seems legitimate, such as “Bus Station Free WiFi.” Don’t be fooled – it could be controlled by a hacker
• Denial of Service (DOS) – These are usually automated requests for data designed to flood your server, forcing it to crash
• Ransomware – Cybercriminals hijack your system and lock data access until a ransom is paid. Frequent data backups that are stored offsite helps avoid full data loss or data corruption and can help avoid having to pay a ransom

Q: Should small businesses invest in cybersecurity?

A: Yes, small businesses should use tools like firewalls, antivirus software and data encryption along with regular assessments. These may seem costly upfront, but they’re far less expensive than dealing with the aftermath of a data breach. Even affordable or free versions of some tools can significantly strengthen a business’s digital defenses.

What Are the Best Ways for Small Businesses to Protect from Hackers?

The first line of defense for protecting against cyberattacks is to think before you click. There are also other simple steps you can take to increase your overall cybersecurity:

• Install Quality Antivirus Software – With the rise of cyberattacks on small and midsized businesses recently, you must prioritize cybersecurity. Antivirus software can identify viruses and malware and pre-emptively stop cyberattacks
• Use Unique and Complicated Passwords and a Password Manager – Users can no longer get by using the same password for everything. Although convenient and easy to remember, using the same password provides an all-access pass for cybercriminals. Password managers are a safer way to create and store passwords that are more difficult to hack, and will alert you when a password is part of a known breach
• Use a Firewall – Firewalls are another essential layer of security that can help prevent data breaches. Make sure it is professionally configured for your network
• Avoid Public WiFi – If you must use public WiFi, avoid doing anything transactional or using private data. You might also consider installing a virtual private network (VPN) on your devices. VPNs encrypt your data and create a virtual “tunnel” within the network, thus hiding your online activities and location
• Get a Cyber Risk Analysis – Many small and midsized businesses don’t have the budget for a full-time IT department and instead use affordable managed services. IT experts can perform an assessment, then design and install the necessary protection to keep your data safe

Q: What is the benefit of having a data backup plan?

A: Backup plans are essential for recovery in the event of a cyberattack, such as ransomware, which locks or steals company data. Even if data is returned, it may be corrupted. By regularly backing up data to secure, off-site locations or cloud services, small businesses can restore critical information quickly without paying a ransom or losing valuable assets. Regular testing of the backup system ensures it will work when needed most. Would you be able to recreate company data if it was lost during a ransomware attack? Ransomware attacks without a secure backup can put small companies out of business.

Can Knowing the Types of Hacks Help Protect from Hackers?

IT security firms monitor industry intelligence to understand new types of hacks and how to protect from hackers looking to steal funds directly or sell client and employee data to other cybercriminals. They have an array of solutions to help build the best possible cybersecurity plan that fits your industry compliance needs. These firms provide affordable managed services for small companies, and will provide proactive services along with emergency response.

For any business, cyberattacks can have devastating financial and reputational consequences. With the dramatic rise in cyberattacks, consider working with IT security professionals to help you identify weaknesses and recommend the proper layers of security for your company. Reach out if you are located in the New York City area, or contact a local cybersecurity company for an assessment. Basic services are far less costly and time consuming than a single hacking incident or data breach.