Top 4 Security Vulnerabilities You Might Not Be Aware Of

Is your company vulnerable to security threats?

Security threats can put your organization and your customers’ sensitive information at risk. Remember the WannaCry ransomware attack that was deployed in May 2017? The attack was estimated to have affected more than 200,000 computers across 150 countries, with total damages ranging from hundreds of millions to billions of dollars.

This article points out 4 security risks and helps you protect your company against them.

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Here are our top 4 security vulnerabilities:

1. Networked printers.

Network printing helps users share print resources around an office or building. There are many benefits to network printing, but it also has one major drawback: it is vulnerable to online attacks. If your printers have outdated firmware, they are potential tools for espionage and data theft. They are a gateway to your company’s network and can be used as a springboard to launch other attacks.

Solution:

1. Make sure your company’s printers have updated firmware;
2. Set up systems to update them on a regular basis;
3. Isolate printers on restricted network segments allowing access only to a dedicated print server.

2. Internet of Things (IoT).

From your fridge to your air conditioning systems, IP cameras and coffee machines, they’re all connected to the Internet. The purpose of the Internet of things is to help us save time and make our lives easier and more efficient. But cyber criminals can also turn it against us. They can use any of the connected devices you have in your home to steal personal data, to vandalise and remotely compromise your property.

Solution:

1. Implement firmware updated and patching cycles;
2. Isolate these devices into their own network segment.

3. Ageing infrastructure

Devices making up your infrastructure reach the end of their useful life. Are you aware which of your infrastructure devices are end-of-life products? Because the respective devices can no longer be updated with the latest software or hardware, your company runs the risk of online attacks and compromise.

Solution:

1. Track your device purchases and know their end-of-support dates;
2. Have your devices budgeted to be replaced before the end of your last support period.

4. People

One of the biggest gateways to your company’s assets might be your own employees.

People like convenience and the easiest path, which means they constantly create vulnerabilities in your organisation. The CEO fraud is one example of how people can be manipulated and influenced: read our article.

Solution:

1. Train your employees regarding security awareness on a regular basis;
2. Inform them of the latest cyber attacks and educate them on how to protect themselves against them;
3. Include security awareness in your company culture.

Security is no longer about installing antivirus software and hiding the company’s network behind a firewall.

A strong security foundation is paramount if you wish to maintain your company’s reputation and longevity.