5 Common Cybersecurity Threats at Workplace

Modern business enterprises are aware of the security threats to their information systems and users’ data. Without a systematic action plan in place, it becomes very difficult for businesses to protect their valuable information on the cloud. Cybersecurity hackers are also developing their tactics to endanger business organizations and their information on the internet. This has increased the need for organizations to employ a solid framework to monitor and protect information security systems.

Here are the 5 common cybersecurity threats that occur at most workplaces:

• Phishing Attacks – This is the most common cybersecurity threat that most people are aware of receiving whether on their personal devices or professional devices at the workplace. Phishing attacks are carried out when a sender asks for private information like passwords and bank details while claiming to be a legitimate source. The easiest way to defend against this type of security threat is to use your common sense. Official sources or business organizations never ask for private information. So, the mail or text messages received are nothing but phishing scams having malicious intent.

• Malware – Another common form of cybersecurity threat at the workplace is malware. This is a by-product of the internet and remains a problem to date. It can appear in the form of a program or software that installs itself in the information system without authorization or permission. Malware cause some of the features of the information system to function differently which affects the overall function of the system. Having a good anti-malware program and taking care of accessing suspicious-looking links and files is a good way to defend against this type of cybersecurity threat.

• Password Theft – Hazim Gaber explains that cybercriminals and hackers are getting better at stealing essential information from vulnerable individuals and workplaces. Password theft is another common way that affects the cybersecurity of business organizations. This usually happens when cybercrime hackers guess or steal an organization’s passwords and acquire access to sensitive data. These hackers use phishing and malware attacks to steal passwords so keeping your information system protected by being smart and knowledgeable about these attacks can be a highly effective defence response.

• Social Engineering Scams – Similar to phishing, these are highly coordinated attacks on an individual or workplace’s information system to steal valuable information and sensitive data from their users. Cybercriminals usually use the social media information of their target to fool them into believing that they are a legitimate business or even scam them as their close friend or relative. As with phishing and other cybersecurity threats, having a thorough understanding of these types of threats and using one’s common sense will prove to be very effective in preventing security breaches of the workplace’s information systems.

• Ransomware – This is a malicious form of malware where the program or software installed prevents any function of the information system until a ransom is paid to the hackers or cybercriminals. Getting rid of ransomware is very difficult and often causes a lot of damage to the information system until the time it is removed. Thus, keeping the system updated with the latest cybersecurity measures is the only way to prevent these attacks.

Cybersecurity breaches cause business organizations to face monetary as well as reputational damage. As a result of the security breach, customers of the business will get affected and their sensitive information will get leaked online. Organizations will have a difficult time earning the trust of the customers again. Thus, understanding these cybersecurity threats and making the entire workplace understand the importance of the information security management system is very important. ISO 27001 Certification can help business organizations attain the necessary steps to prevent cybersecurity threats at the workplace. This standard is recognized across the globe and proves that the workplace is secured using the latest guidelines set by the International Organization for Standardization.