Tips for preventing cyberattacks

There is no precise and up-to-date number of the amount of companies that have suffered cyberattacks, as there is no single source of data that records all cyber security incidents. Additionally, many attacks may go unnoticed or not be publicly reported.

Cyber attacks, a threat

However, it is evident that cyberattacks are becoming an increasingly common and frequent threat worldwide, affecting companies of all sizes and sectors. According to the 2020 Symantec Internet Security Threat Report, 43% of global phishing attacks were directed at small businesses. Additionally, according to the Hiscox Cyber Readiness Report 2020, 47% of small businesses surveyed in the US, UK, and Europe had experienced at least one cyberattack in the past year.

 One in four small and medium-sized enterprises plans to increase their investment in cybersecurity in the coming years.

A cyberattack is a malicious attempt to access, damage, steal or destroy information or computer systems through networks or devices connected to the Internet. Cyberattacks can be carried out by individuals or groups with different objectives, such as obtaining confidential information, extorting money, disrupting system operations, spreading computer viruses, among others.

Cyberattacks can cause significant financial, reputational, and data losses for affected companies and individuals. It is important to take preventive measures to protect against cyberattacks, such as using antivirus software, keeping systems up to date, and using secure and different passwords for each account.

Strategy, the best defense

If a company suffers a cyberattack, it is important to take immediate measures to minimize damage and prevent future attacks.

• Isolate the affected system, gather information: When a cyberattack occurs, it is essential to take quick action to reduce damage and prevent future attacks. Isolating the affected system and gathering relevant information about the attack are two of the most important actions to take. Isolation involves disconnecting the system from the network and the internet to prevent the spread of the attack. Gathering relevant information helps identify potential entry vectors and system vulnerabilities that allowed the attack. It is important to document everything observed and found during the attack for subsequent analysis. These two actions are critical to minimizing damage and preventing future attacks.

• Notify relevant authorities: After a cyberattack, it is important to notify relevant authorities, such as the police or cyber security agencies, especially if data theft is suspected or if the attack has had a significant impact on the organization or third parties. Authorities can investigate the attack, track down the perpetrators, and provide advice on how to improve cyber security. In certain cases, notification to authorities may also be required by law, such as in the case of a personal data breach.

• Restore systems refers to the action of recovering and restoring computer and information technology systems that have been affected by a cyberattack or other technical problem. This may involve removing malicious software, correcting errors in code, reinstalling the operating system, recovering lost data, and implementing additional security measures to prevent future attacks. Restoring systems is a critical process to minimize downtime and ensure business continuity after a cyber security incident.

• Review existing security measures refers to the action of evaluating and updating the security measures that an organization has implemented to protect its computer and information technology systems against cyber security threats. This may involve reviewing security policies and procedures, conducting risk and vulnerability assessments, implementing additional security measures, training personnel on cyber security practices, and updating security software and hardware. Regular review of existing security measures is essential to ensure that an organization is protected against constantly evolving cyber security threats.

• Notifying affected parties if necessary are some of the recommended actions to combat and minimize risks after a cyberattack.

Conclusion

las empresas deben tomar medidas preventivas para protegerse contra los ciberataques y estar preparadas para actuar rápidamente si sufren un ataque. Los ciberataques son una amenaza cada vez más frecuente y generalizada, por lo que es crucial tomar medidas para protegerse contra ellos.

Although there is no comprehensive record of cyberattacks on companies, it is known that they are becoming increasingly common and affect companies of all sizes and sectors. Cyberattacks can cause financial, reputational, and data losses. It is important to take preventive measures and act quickly in case of an attack, such as isolating the affected system, collecting relevant information, notifying relevant authorities, restoring systems, and reviewing existing security measures. In addition, it is recommended to notify affected individuals if necessary.

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