Network security is an essential part of any business, particularly professional services that handle sensitive customer data. Cyber security threats can range from malicious hackers to stolen data, making it critical to understand the risks associated with network security.
By taking the time to understand these risks and the measures needed to protect against them, professional services can provide a safe and secure environment for their clients.
What is network security?
Network security is the process of securing computers and other devices on a network against malicious attacks and threats. It includes various measures to protect your internet-connected devices, such as software, hardware, and firewall settings.
Network security protects you and your organisation by monitoring, assessing, and controlling who can access your devices and data, as well as what they can do while they’re there. It also helps to identify and block any suspicious activity, such as cyber-attacks.
Phishing and social engineering
Phishing and social engineering attacks are two of the most common threats to businesses and individuals alike. A phishing attack uses deception to trick a person into giving away sensitive information, like a password or login details, while social engineering relies on the victim being tricked into letting the attacker into the network.
In a professional services setting, phishing and social engineering attacks are often directed at gaining access to confidential data. This information could then be used to access client accounts, steal money, or commit identity theft.
Defend against these threats by:
- Educating staff on how to identify these attacks.
- Using two-factor authentication.
- Using a virtual private network (VPN) to protect against network intrusions.
- Using data loss prevention (DLP) software.
Malware
Malware is malicious software designed to disrupt computer operations, gather information, or gain access to private computer systems. It comes in many forms and can be delivered through a variety of methods, including email, infected websites, or removable media like USB drives.
Malware has become increasingly common in recent years, as hackers have become more sophisticated and businesses have become less diligent when it comes to network security.
Protect against malware by:
- Using antivirus software.
- Limiting employee access to sensitive data.
- Limiting the use of removable media.
- Limiting or disabling the ability for employees to download files from unknown websites.
Ransomware
Ransomware is malicious software that prevents or restricts access to files on an infected computer system until the victim pays a ransom. Once installed on a device, it can prevent users from accessing their files, as well as gain access to sensitive data like passwords or financial information.
Ransomware can be devastating for businesses, as it can disrupt operations and prevent employees from accessing important data.
Protect against ransomware by:
- Regularly backing up valuable data.
- Limiting employee access to sensitive data.
- Using software to monitor for unusual activity.
Distributed denial-of-service attacks
A distributed denial of service (DDOS) attack occurs when an attacker uses a network of computers to flood a website or server with traffic in an attempt to overload the network and make the website or server unavailable.
Professional services, particularly law firms, are a common target for DDOS attacks due to the large number of potential victims. This makes it a cheap and efficient way for cybercriminals to disrupt operations while covering their tracks.
If you outsource your IT services and cybersecurity to an managed service provider (MSP), they should also be able to recommend the best protection against DDOS attacks.
Protect your network with the experts
Network security is a critical part of any business, particularly professional services that handle sensitive client data.
The cyber security specialists at Itopia can advise you on the best security software, practices, and policies for your specific business needs. Talk to them today and ensure your network is protected against all threats.
Adam leads the Itopia team in Brisbane, helping professional-services firms get secure, productive and confident with their technology, in plain English.