Perform a Cyber Security Risk Assessment

Cybersecurity involves protecting systems and data. Cyber-attacks happen daily. They are so common that it is a surprise to some that they are a threat.

This post will enlighten you the basics of a cyber-security risk assessment. We will also look at the different types of cyber-attacks and show you how to protect your organisation against them. So, if you are looking to protect your organisation against cyber attacks, read on.

Basics of a Cyber Security Risk Assessment

Threat

It is an instance that can potentially harm an organisation’s assets or individuals. Examples of threats include website failure, corporate espionage and natural disasters.

Vulnerability

It is a possible weak point that can let a threat result in damage. Expired antivirus software is an example of a vulnerability that can lead to the success of a malware attack. Building a server room in a location prone to floods can cause downtime and damage equipment. Other examples of vulnerability include aged hardware and dissatisfied employees.

Impact

It refers to the amount of damage an organisation will incur if vulnerabilities result in a threat. A threat can cause low production in an organisation and disclosure of trade secrets and customer data. A threat can make a firm incur data recovery costs and result in compliance penalties, legal fees and lost business.

Likelihood

It is the probability of a threat occurring, and it features a range, not a particular number.

Different Types of Cyber Attacks

A cyber-attack occurs when an organisation or an individual maliciously sets out to interfere with the information system of other organisations or individuals. The objective of attacks is for financial gains or data destruction. Some of the cyber security attacks are:

Malware

It consists of diverse cyber-attack types such as worms, viruses and spyware. The malware utilises vulnerabilities to breach networks when a user clicks on set malicious email attachments or links which install harmful software in the system. Malicious and malware files can disrupt your system, obtain information or deny entry to important network elements. The most common malware types are worms, viruses, spyware, Trojans and ransomware.

Phishing

Phishing attacks are common and are carried out by sending huge numbers of fraudulent emails to unaware users, disguised as coming from reliable sources. The emails appear to be legitimate; however, they link users to dangerous files created to give access to your gadget and control it. Phishing attack types include whaling, pharming and spear phishing.

Man-In-The-Middle (MitM) Attack

It happens when an attacker intercepts a two-party transaction by getting themselves in the centre finger. Afterwards, they manipulate and steal data by interrupting traffic. This attack is difficult to detect and exploits security vulnerability in a network such as public Wi-Fi that is not secured.

Denial-of-Service (DOS) Attack

There is an addition of DDOS, distributed denial of service, initiated from various infected machines with a mission of gaining service denial and taking a system offline to create a path for another attack to access the network. These attacks flood networks and servers with traffic to overload bandwidth and resources. It renders the system unable to satisfy and process legal requests.

SQL Injections

They happen when an attacker injects a malicious code into a server utilising server query language which prompts the server to deliver secure information. It involves submitting malicious code into an unsecured website search or comment box.

How to Protect an Organisation against Cyber Attacks

Learn How to Identify and Detect a Possible Social Engineering Attack

Social engineering cyberattacks are challenging to pinpoint but detecting them sooner is essential in protecting your organisation against various threats. Additionally, all organisational members should learn to detect these cyber-attacks since it takes a single member to click on the wrong email attachment or link.

Educate Users on Devices

An organisation should ensure that all the members understand the best practices for protecting the organisational data.

Implement Password Management and Multi-Factor Authentication

Establishing password management and multi-factor authentication policies are essential when securing your gadgets. It is vital to change default passwords since they are a vulnerability exploited by attackers. MFA is important since it prompts users to confirm their credentials for every device used.

Adopt hardware and software best practises

This can encompass selecting systems with built-in defence functions or often updating your hardware and software. Product updates offer serious fixes for new vulnerabilities.

Select the Right Technology

Selecting the right technology is essential in providing a strong cyber security strategy. Your organisation generates a premium cyber security strategy by carrying out an operation with clear communication and transparency around vulnerabilities.