In the current business landscape, safeguarding data security has reached unprecedented significance. Enterprises of varying sizes must maintain constant vigilance to shield their networks against potential cyber threats. Nevertheless, much like others, your business might lack full awareness regarding prevalent network vulnerabilities and the diverse array of network security threats.
Within this blog post, we will delve into several frequently encountered network security vulnerabilities and elucidate strategies to effectively prevent their impact.
Common Attacks in Network Security Small Businesses Should Be Aware of:
Let's begin by examining several prevalent types of attacks in the realm of network security. A staggering 700,000 attacks are directed towards small businesses annually, causing a cumulative damage of $2.8 billion. This number is on a persistent rise, mirroring the escalating complexity of the cybercrime landscape.
Some of the most recurrent types of attacks in the arena of network security include:
Unauthorized access
Distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks
Malware infiltration
Man-in-the-middle attacks
Insider threats
Phishing schemes
Password breaches
The good news is that there exists a multitude of effective strategies to shield against these varieties of network security threats, with collaboration with a managed service provider (MSP) standing as one of the most proficient and impactful options.
A Closer Look at 5 Common Network Security Vulnerabilities
Vulnerability of Weak Passwords
An astonishing 81% of company data breaches stem from the frailty of passwords and subpar password management practices (like jotting them down in vulnerable places).
The good news is that this form of network security vulnerability can be readily rectified. By instituting robust password standards and coupling them with additional measures such as two-factor authentication, you substantially enhance your security stance. Incorporating password practices and tools like multi-factor, advanced, and certificate-based authentication, along with encryption, provides a firm assurance that your invaluable assets and data remain impervious to data breaches and online assaults.
Exposing Unsecured Networks
Unprotected Wi-Fi networks and computer systems occupy a prominent spot on the roster of vulnerabilities in network security, potentially posing a grave hazard if left inadequately safeguarded and managed.
Such unsecured networks can potentially grant malicious actors entry to your system, enabling them to discreetly manipulate or seize sensitive information like usernames, passwords, and financial particulars without triggering any alerts.
As a result, it's crucial to undertake all essential measures to guarantee your business's immunity against the full spectrum of network security vulnerabilities. This entails regular password updates, configuring network firewall settings, activating encryption protocols, vigilant monitoring of user activities, installing antivirus software and diligently updating it, as well as deactivating unused services.
When executed effectively, these actions serve the dual purpose of identifying network security weak points and thwarting unauthorized entities from accessing your confidential data.
Poor Cybersecurity Training
Engaging in cybersecurity training equips your workforce with the necessary skills and knowledge to pinpoint vulnerabilities in cyber security and safeguard sensitive information.
Regular and relevant training sessions for all users guarantee that every individual within your organization comprehends the nuances of recognizing malicious content, handling suspicious emails, and effectively managing their personal devices in alignment with the established security protocols and best practices.
Addressing Misconfigured Firewalls (A Remarkably Common Cyber Vulnerability)
The security of organizational data becomes compromised when internal networks or servers are inadvertently exposed to the internet. In the absence of adequate protection, malicious threat actors can exploit this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access, attempt confidential information theft, disrupt operational integrity, or even assume control over the entire system. This underscores the significance of rectifying misconfigured firewalls as one of the paramount cyber threats and vulnerabilities.
To tackle these network vulnerabilities, network administrators establish traffic regulations to enforce stringent controls on the passage of data packets through their systems. However, even with these measures in place, vulnerabilities may persist.
Attackers might utilize ICMP (Internet Control Message Protocol), a technique used to verify connections between devices, to pinpoint susceptible targets within the organization's framework. Implementing a complete blockage of ICMP requests heightens the challenge for unauthorized activities to be detected within sensitive networks.
Confronting Outdated Software Risks
Outdated software poses a substantial hazard to network security, as it exposes your system to the perils of malicious attacks.
Adversaries can exploit undisclosed and unpatched vulnerabilities within the obsolete code to gain illicit access to your system's data or potentially seize control.
Furthermore, older software versions might lack the necessary features to counter cyber security vulnerabilities, such as robust encryption or authentication mechanisms.
For this very reason, maintaining all systems up-to-date with the latest software iterations, implementing regular patching procedures, conducting comprehensive penetration tests, and undergoing vulnerability scans are paramount to ensure protection against potential information security vulnerabilities.
How MapleTronics Can Help?
The need to be vigilant about diverse network security vulnerabilities has never been more critical. By staying informed about the latest cyber threats and vulnerabilities and adopting effective countermeasures, your business can confidently maintain its security and competitive edge within today's evolving landscape.
From aiding you in recognizing prevalent network vulnerabilities to introducing cutting-edge information technology and providing comprehensive training to your in-house team, MapleTronics has you covered with an array of services, including:
Expert Vulnerability Management
Seamless Implementation of Security Controls
Thorough Security Risk Analysis
Comprehensive Cybersecurity Training
Vigilant Remote Monitoring
Timely Operating System Patches and Updates
Enhanced Security for Computers and Mobile Devices
And Much More
Schedule a chat with one of our security experts today to find out how we can help your organization be better protected.