Cyber security is a term used to describe the measures taken to protect electronic data and systems from unauthorized access or damage. It can include anything from protecting individual user information to the security of entire computer networks. 

Cyber security is a critical issue for businesses of all sizes. It is essential to understand the basics of this topic to make informed decisions on how best to protect your company. We will discuss the definition of cyber security, common threats, and ways to safeguard your data.

What Is Cyber Security?

Cyber security is the practice of protecting electronic data and systems from unauthorized access or damage. Cyber security is more critical now than ever before. With so much of our lives moving online, it is more important than ever to ensure that your information is safe and secure.

Cyber security protects both hardware and software security measures. It is essential because it helps protect your data and systems from attacks.

Cyber Security Domains

A solid cyber security program has many facets, each designed to protect a specific area from attack. The most common domains are:

Application security: This domain focuses on protecting the software you use from attacks. It includes things like patch management and code signing.

Data security: This domain focuses on protecting the data you store from attack. It includes things like encryption and access control.

Infrastructure security: This domain focuses on protecting the infrastructure you use from attacks. It includes things like firewalls and intrusion detection.

Cyber Security Myths

There are a lot of myths about cyber security. Here are some of the most common:

First, cybercriminals are outsiders. In reality, most cyber-attacks are executed with the help of insiders. These insiders can include employees, contractors, or even business partners.

Second, cyber security is only for large businesses. In reality, small businesses are just as vulnerable to cyber-attacks as large businesses. Small businesses can be even more susceptible because they may not have the resources to protect themselves.

Third, risks are well-known. In reality, the risks associated with cyber security are constantly changing. New threats are continually emerging, and it is essential to stay up-to-date on the latest threats to protect your data.

Common Cyber Security Threats

Many different threats fall under the umbrella of cyber security. Although the threats are constantly changing, some are more common than others. Here are some of the most common cyber security threats:

Phishing: Phishing is a social engineering attack in which an attacker attempts to trick a user into giving them sensitive information, such as passwords or credit card numbers. Phishing attacks can happen through email, text messages, or even phone calls.

Malware: Malware is a type of software that damages or disables computers. One can use malware to steal data, delete files, or even take control of a computer.

Ransomware: Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts a user’s data and demands a ransom to decrypt it. Ransomware mainly spreads through phishing emails or malicious websites.

Denial of service: Denial of service (DoS) attacks make a computer or network unavailable to its users. DoS attacks occur by flooding a server with traffic or by taking advantage of vulnerabilities in the network infrastructure.

How to Protect Yourself from Cyber Security Threats

You can take many steps to protect yourself from cyber security threats. Here are some of the most important ones:

•   Install antivirus software and keep it up-to-date.
•   Make sure your operating system is up-to-date and install any released security patches.
•   Create strong passwords and don’t use the same password for multiple accounts.
•   Be careful when opening email attachments and clicking on links in emails.
•   Don’t download files from unknown or untrustworthy sources.
•   Be suspicious of unsolicited phone calls or text messages from people you don’t know.
•   Be careful when using public Wi-Fi networks.

Experience Simplified Business Solutions

Cyber security is essential for everyone. By following these simple tips, you can make it harder for attackers to target you and your data. Remember to install antivirus software, keep your operating system up-to-date, create strong passwords, and be careful when clicking on links or downloading files from untrustworthy sources.

At Altek Business Systems, we offer managed IT, workflow solutions, document management, and print solutions in Montgomery County, Lehigh Valley, Bucks County, Delaware County, and Philadelphia. Contact us today to learn more about our business systems.