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The importance of basic cyber safety measures

With the increasing number of cyberattacks on small to medium-sized businesses, it’s essential to understand the importance of basic cyber safety measures. Human error is a significant contributor to cybersecurity breaches, which makes it crucial for individuals and organizations to be aware of the risks and take necessary precautions. In this article we will discuss some common types of cyberattacks and provide practical tips on how to minimize human error and stay safe online.

Common types of cyberattacks

Phishing
Phishing attacks involve using emails and websites to obtain personal or business data, such as banking credentials, addresses and password hints. Cybercriminals may also use emails to trick victims into clicking on links that install harmful software (malware) on their computers. These emails often appear to come from a trusted source, making it challenging to identify them as fake.

Email scams
Email scams target businesses and individuals alike, using tactics such as accusing the recipient of doing something illegal, demanding payment or offering fake services. These emails aim to deceive the victim into divulging confidential information or transferring money to the attacker’s account.

Malware
Malware refers to any malicious software designed to disrupt or damage digital systems. It can download onto a computer, server or mobile device without the user’s knowledge or consent. Malware encompasses various forms, including viruses, ransomware, spyware and Trojans. Its primary goal is to gather sensitive information, such as login credentials, credit card numbers or health records.

Other types of cyberattacks may include

Ransomware: Malware that encrypts files and demands payment in exchange for decryption keys.

Denial of service (DoS)/Distributed denial of service (DDoS): Overwhelming a system or network with traffic to make it unavailable to users.

Social engineering: Manipulating individuals into revealing confidential information or performing actions that compromise security.

SQL injection: Injecting malicious code into databases to steal or modify sensitive data.

Cross-site scripting (XSS): Injecting malicious scripts into websites to steal user data or carry out unauthorized actions.

Reducing human error in cybersecurity

To reduce the risk of falling victim to cyberattacks, it’s vital to train yourself and your employees to develop good cybersecurity habits.

Here are some tips to help you stay vigilant:

  1. Be cautious with emails: If an email appears suspicious, don’t interact with it. Instead, contact the sender directly to verify its authenticity.
  2. Check website URLs: Pay attention to website URLs and watch out for subtle redirectors, poor grammar and frequent misspellings.
  3. Avoid sharing personal information: Never provide personal, password or financial details unless certain of the source’s legitimacy.
  4. Keep software up to date: Ensure your devices’ malware scanners and virus protection are continuously updated and active.
  5. Use system firewalls: Activate system firewalls to filter out dubious incoming messages and websites.
  6. Visit reputable websites: Only visit well-known websites and refrain from clicking on pop-up messages asking for personal information.
  7. Create robust passwords: Develop strong, unique passwords and change them regularly.

Additional resources

The Mastercard Trust Centre offers complimentary cybersecurity education, resources and tools, along with affordable cybersecurity products, to assist small and medium-sized businesses in strengthening their security posture. Select one of three learning journeys based on your level of cybersecurity expertise. Choose from Learn the Basics, Expand Your Knowledge and Master Your Security.

Protecting your small business from cyberattacks requires a solid understanding of the risks involved and taking proactive steps to mitigate them. By being mindful of the most common types of cyberattacks and following the tips provided above, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of falling victim to cybercrime. Remember, cybersecurity is an ongoing effort, so stay informed and adapt your strategies to stay ahead of emerging threats.