Do you know what internet security risks your company faces daily? The best way to avoid such problems is to identify internet security vulnerabilities as quickly as possible.
A company can only protect itself if it knows where attacks might come from. A giant shield in front of you is useless if your back is unprotected.
To give you an idea of the importance of the topic, according to research by Kaspersky, Brazil leads in the number of companies attacked by ransomware during the epidemic . And that's just one attack. There are many others.
Below, you will find some ways to identify your company's internet security weaknesses, along with some helpful tips on where to look.
How can you identify vulnerabilities in a company's internet security?
Identifying vulnerabilities is the first step in eliminating weaknesses in a company's internet security.
Below, I've listed the most common issues that result in internet security breaches for most companies. Read carefully and effectively verify each item.
1. Check for the presence of security software
Because it's a basic protection system, it's at the top of the list. Using antivirus and anti-malware software is essential for businesses. Check not only for the presence of these software programs, but also if their licenses are up to date, if all their functions are activated, and if the protection package purchased is adequate for the company's needs.
The lack of basic security software on company devices can represent a major vulnerability in the company's internet security.
2. Check if the systems are up to date
Operating systems are updated by their manufacturers not only because of interface and functionality improvements, but also because they include new forms of internet protection.
Scan all devices to ensure they are all up-to-date and have active license keys. Otherwise, internet security may be compromised.
3. Do you have a properly configured firewall system?
Using a good firewall system and configuring it correctly is essential for companies that care about internet security.
Check if this system is active on the company network and also if its settings are correct.
The lack of a firewall system can become the gateway for a cyberattack on the company.
4. Check for the use of pirated software
Pirated software often carries malware or fails to receive security updates because it is a modified version (by someone you don't even know) of the original version.
Imagine software that your team uses daily, but it becomes an open door for hackers.
Check for pirated software installed on devices, as this type of software poses significant security risks to the company's internet network.
5. Pay attention to remote connections
Remote connections, involving the transfer of files from within the company to external devices, can be considered a major vulnerability if done without protection.
Public Wi-Fi networks, for example, can be controlled and monitored by cybercriminals, who can intercept the remote connection with the company and obtain access data, or worse, the company's data.
Furthermore, personal devices typically have more vulnerabilities than business devices due to various factors, and when used by employees working from home, for example, they can open doors to attacks when accessing them remotely.
Check if any security system, such as a corporate VPN, is being used for remote access.
6. Is there control over employee internet access?
Employees may be the main gateway for a cyberattack on a company. Social engineering scams are on the rise and require less effort from cybercriminals because the vast majority of internet users do not have sufficient knowledge about internet security to protect themselves properly.
Fake email scams, malicious links, downloading malware-infected software, fake social media ads, and many others.
To prevent unauthorized access to websites that could compromise the company's internet security, internet access control systems that block websites by category may be the solution.
Training and rules can help, but only lockout/tagout systems will be able to effectively protect the company against careless or malicious employees.
Check if you have an internet access control system in place at the company, and configure it in a way that doesn't disrupt the work of different departments, but keeps company data secure.
7. Perform a security test
There are several internet security tests available on the market today. Some check router ports, others look for any type of access blockage to categories considered harmful.
Take the test that best suits your company and see which points need to be corrected.
Remember that simply running the test does not guarantee the complete security of your company's data. Apply the necessary corrections identified in the test and also verify the other items mentioned earlier in this article.
Extra tip: where to begin?
Perhaps mapping and using tools to detect security vulnerabilities in the company is the first step in protecting against a hacker attack. But always remember: users will always be the main target of hackers, therefore, keeping them away from digital crimes is the most effective way to keep company data protected on the internet.
Raising awareness and educating employees about the correct way to use the internet and navigate it safely without frequent risks and threats is an ongoing task.
Continue reading the Internet Security Guide for Businesses and see some ways to keep employees safe from cyberattacks.
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