What is Cyber Security?

Cyber security is like locking the doors and windows of your house to keep bad people out and ensure your belongings are safe.

Types of Cybersecurity Threats

Understanding the various types of cybersecurity threats and attacks is crucial for defending against them. Here are the most common attacks you should know about:

Phishing Attacks: Cybercriminals trick individuals into providing sensitive information by pretending to be a legitimate email or website. Phishing attacks account for over 80% of reported security incidents.

Malware Attacks: A common cyberattack and umbrella term for malicious programs delivered and installed on end users’ computers. Attacks like these often occur when a user downloads unsigned software from the web and installs it on a computer, server, or network.

• Malware attacks are incredibly common, with over 5.4 billion attacks recorded in 2022 alone.

Man-in-the-Middle Attacks:

• A man-in-the-middle (MitM) attack happens when an attacker intercepts website traffic or email messages between two parties who think they’re communicating directly.

People, Processes, and Technology:

• People: Educate employees about recognising threats and following security protocols. Studies show that 43% of small businesses do not have a cyber security plan in place, making them vulnerable.
• Processes: Implement strong security policies and procedures to protect data and respond to incidents efficiently.
• Technology: Use advanced security tools and technologies to effectively prevent, detect, and respond to cyber threats. Organisations adopting robust cyber security measures can significantly reduce the costs associated with data breaches.

Tips for Improving Cyber Security for Your Company

Implementing the following strategies can significantly enhance your company’s cyber security:

• Use Strong Passwords: Weak passwords are a leading cause of data breaches. Ensure all passwords are complex, unique, and changed regularly. A strong password typically includes a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters, and should be at least 12 characters long.

Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): MFA adds a layer of security by requiring extra verification methods, like a code or a digital certificate.

• Use antivirus software: Antivirus software protects and scans your entire computer for malware. Scan your computer regularly to catch malware early and prevent it from spreading.

• Regularly Update Software: Unpatched software leaves systems vulnerable to exploits. Regular updates fix security flaws and keep your systems protected.

• Use S/MIME certificates: Signing your emails with a digital certificate is the best way to visually indicate to recipients—customers, colleagues, suppliers—that an email can be trusted.

• Educate Employees: Human error is a significant risk. Regular training can help employees recognise and avoid threats like phishing emails or downloading malicious software. Statistics show that 95% of cybersecurity breaches are due to human error.

• Protect websites with SSL/TLS certificates: Use SSL/TLS certificates to keep user data secure, verify ownership, prevent attackers from creating fake site versions, and build user trust.

• Backup Data: Data loss can occur due to cyberattacks. Regularly backing up data ensures you can recover important information if something goes wrong.

Sign your code:  If you develop software, you must digitally sign your code to assure users that it is from a trusted source and hasn’t been altered or tampered with.

Checklist for Improving Cyber Security:

• Use strong and unique passwords.
• Enable multi-factor authentication.
• Keep software updated.
• Install antivirus software during regular employee training.
• Backup data regularly.
• Install and maintain firewalls.
• Use encryption for sensitive data.
• Periodically review and update security policies.
• Monitor network traffic for unusual activity.
• Implement access controls to restrict who can view and use sensitive information.

Secure website traffic and communication with TRUSTZONE SSL/TLS certificates, and secure email communication with TRUSTZONE’s S/MIME certificates.

Consequences of Poor Cyber Security

Neglecting cyber security can lead to severe consequences, including financial loss, repetitional damage, and legal issues. The global cost of cybercrime is estimated to reach $10.5 trillion annually by 2025. Understanding the implications helps underscore the importance of investing in robust security measures.

Leading Causes of Breaches:

• Weak Passwords: Simple and easily guessable passwords make it easy for attackers to gain access. Compromised passwords account for 63% of all data breaches.

• Phishing Attacks: Users falling for phishing scams can inadvertently provide access to sensitive information.

• Unpatched Software: Failing to apply updates leaves systems vulnerable to exploits.

• Insider Threats: Employees or contractors with malicious intent or those who are careless with security practices can cause significant damage. Human error is a significant risk factor, responsible for 95% of cybersecurity breaches.

Statistics on Cyber Security

• Financial Impact: Cybercrime will cost the world $10.5 trillion annually by 2025.
  • Ransomware: The average ransomware payout increased dramatically from $812,380 in 2022 to $1,542,333 in 2023.
  • Phishing: 96% of phishing attacks are delivered via email, accounting for over 80% of reported security incidents.
  • Breaches: Data breach costs rose from $3.86 million to $4.24 million in 202, the highest average total cost in this report’s 17-year history.
  • Remote Work: The shift to remote work increased the average cost of a data breach by $137,000.
  • Malware: There were 5.4 billion malware attacks in 2022.
  • Bot Traffic: Nearly half (47.4%) of all internet traffic 2022 came from bots.
  • Ransomware Recovery: The average cost of a ransomware recovery is nearly $2 million.
  • Phishing Losses: $17,700 is lost every minute due to phishing attacks.
  • Human Error: Human error is responsible for 95% of cybersecurity breaches.

Index of Important Subpages on TRUSTZONE:

Cyber Security Solutions:

• SSL/TLS
• ACME Pro
• Certificate Lifecycle Management for large enterprises
• Certificate Lifecycle Management for Small and Medium
• Managed S/MIME
• Digital Signing Service
• PSD2 Certificates

For Businesses:

• Resellers
• Webinars and events

Insights:

• What is S/MIME?
• What is Code Signing, and how does it work?
• Renewing SSL certificates
• Understanding PFX-files

Tools:

• SSL/TLS discovery tool
• Decoder tool

FAQ