Top Cyber Attacks in South Africa Businesses and What you Can Do to Protect Yourself

Top Cyber Attacks in South Africa Businesses and What you Can Do to Protect Yourself
Top Cyber Attacks in South Africa Businesses and What you Can Do to Protect Yourself

Threat actors have been focusing on companies of all sizes in South Africa as they know that few are doing anything to try to fend off cyber attacks, and this makes them easy targets. Organisations are slow to implement cyber security actions, instead, rolling the dice to bet that they will not fall prey to the ever growing list of businesses that have suffered. The cost of cyber attacks is growing in South Africa, and recognising the types of attacks combined with putting security precautions in place is now considered to be part of the cost of doing business in today’s digital world.

Most Popular Cyber Attacks

Malware is one of the easiest ways that cybercriminals can cause damage. Malware is any form of software virus that is considered to be malicious, including trojans, adware, ransomware, worms, and spyware. Malware can be disguised as valid software or can be part of an email attachment. The goal of malware is to have access to a company’s network and steal proprietary data. Ransomware blocks network access and requires payment to open it. Spyware just steals the data without anyone being aware of it. Adware differs slightly in that it is displayed as advertising on the screen of a user. The best methods to protect your business is to first be aware and knowledgeable. Make sure that your antivirus software is up to date and use firewalls to protect your network. Work with your IT Department to have automated updates for OS and browsers.

Phishing is a form of misidentification where the cybercriminal attempts to impersonate a company or individual that you might be familiar with so that they can gain access as a trusted person. Phishing comes in the form of fake emails or instant messaging. Once the email is opened or the IM is responded to, the cybercriminal can have access to private information or even install malware on the computer and the network. Being diligent or suspicious of emails and IMs is a requirement. In many cases there are obvious signals such as spelling or grammatical errors. Make sure that your passwords are updated on a regular basis and use an anti-phishing toolbar.

Password Attack is commonly used by cybercriminals to crack your password. There are a variety of password cracking tools that are available and almost completely automated. The easiest way to circumvent these hackers is to use strong passwords that include alpha, numeric, and special characters. Keep your password updated and never let any of the password hints exist in the open.

Insider Threat is exactly as it sounds. In some cases this is a deliberate vindictive action by someone on the inside, but in most cases it is often accidental. It involves someone within the company causing immense damage by adding malicious software to their technologies and/or company network. Prevention of insider threats involves diligence in organisational security, password protection, deletion of accounts for staff that have left, limited access to full networks, and discussing the company security requirements with employees.

Businesses rely on digital communications and their networks to accomplish daily functions. A professional cybersecurity company can assist in maintaining a security environment.

“Cybercriminals have become very sophisticated in their attacks. All businesses, small or large, are susceptible to threat actors. DaVinci Cybersecurity analyses potential dangers in an environment and makes recommendations to keep your company safe.”

Sharon Knowles, CEO DaVinci Cybersecurity