Did you know that, for a world-class athlete in their prime, it takes about 45 seconds to complete a 400m track race? But, it only takes about 38 seconds for an amateur hacker to mess up your digital structure. However, unlike a professional athlete, you don’t need a decade of training to defend against cyber threats. It is a matter of how informed you are of the potential threats that can disrupt your business.

The first step towards cyber protection is the awareness of the threat itself. Only one out of every seven cyber threats is reported or looked after. This is not because of the fear of the unknown, but mainly due to the lack of knowledge in the areas of potential threats. Through this blog, let us explore the common threats, the protection strategies to deal with them and how to have a strong digital base for your business. 

Common Cyber Attacks

A common threat in the cyber world would be minimalistic and, at times, almost unnoticeable. Due to the absence of a physical presence, people usually underestimate the potential of a simple-looking text message with a small link. Let’s explore the most common types of cyber threats that we encounter in day-to-day life.

• Phishing: This is almost like digital fishing. Instead of fish, it involves stealing people’s personal information in a single click. Next time when you receive malicious mail from an unknown person or organisation, think twice before clicking on any links.
• Malware: This is a comprehensive name for software solely designed to harm a computer or a network. It comes in multiple forms and can hold your data hostage.
• SQL Injection: This is a code injection technique with the capability of destroying an entire database including websites and applications. Hackers exploit the application vulnerabilities to perform such malicious actions.
• IoT Vulnerabilities: The Internet of Things (IoT) has introduced a cluster of applications from smart homes to wearable devices. However, with all the advancements comes the risk of exposing yourself to cyber threats from all ends. Leaving it unprotected is like having an open door to your digital world.

Advanced Data-Protection Strategies

In this digital age, digital vulnerabilities are increasing at an alarming rate. To counter this, organizations need to safeguard their valuable data. Some of the industry-level data-protection strategies are as follows:

• Web Application Firewalls: These firewalls act as a digital shield as they defend the applications from incoming cyber attacks. They are capable of eliminating malicious attacks by acting as the first line of defence. 
• Device Authentication and Authorisation: The current world revolves around connected devices and those devices are the easy access point to all sensitive information. Strict access controls based on hierarchy are necessary to add more strength to your digital defence. 
• Advanced Threat Protection: As the cyber defences are evolving, the disruptors are creating evolved threats every minute. That is why it is important to have an advanced security system in place that will not only protect existing IT threats but also anticipate any forthcoming attacks as well. 
• Incident Responses: Even with a well-structured defence system, breaches can occur. To tackle those situations, an expert-level incident response team with organised strategies is necessary. 

Robust Digital Defense

More than any other domain, the IT field is a sector that is evolving at a rapid pace on all fronts. Despite having all the latest updates while building, a security firewall needs to be constantly updated and put into test to withstand any forthcoming cyber attacks. On an organisation level, there are a few things that need to be put in place in order to have robust digital security. Some of the key components that contribute to a strong digital defense are:

• VAPT: Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing is a complete security check-up to find out vulnerabilities in an application, network, endpoint and cloud. By implementing periodic VAPTs, organisations can proactively identify and resolve security issues.
• Red Teaming: Red Teaming is a bogus cyber attack that is designed to test a company’s defence system. A team of qualified personnels will try to breach and get their hands on sensitive information. With Red Teaming, companies can reinforce their security and improve incident responses.
• SOC: The Security Operations Center (SOC) can be referred to as the heart of any cyber security operations. It consists of a team of qualified members who monitor networks and systems for suspicious activities. 
• Managed Compliance: Adherence to industry regulations is crucial in protecting confidential information and to avoid huge penalties. Managed Compliance gives expert guidance adhering to multiple standards. 

Conclusion

In this era of advanced technologies, cyber security is not a luxury, but it has become an absolute necessity. By understanding the common online threats, with the latest data-protection strategies involving solid defence systems, organisations can safely negotiate any cyber threats coming their way. A proactive approach is essential to protect data from hackers. Take the first step towards secured digital establishment by consulting with an expert in cyber security and digital forensics. With a combination of knowledge, technology and human resources, it is possible to create a secure digital environment for any business.