Publicity and communication about IT security has heightened significantly over recent years. As a result, businesses and individuals are generally more aware of the risks and of ways to mitigate them.
However, recently-released data shows that cyber criminals’ activity is ever-increasing. Reports indicate that
- Over the last year, there were 20 ransomware attempts per second worldwide
- 80% of these were targeted at SMEs
- 39% of UK businesses reported suffering a cyber attack in 2022, costing the business several thousand pounds on average
- The most common cyber threat facing businesses and individuals is phishing
Cybercriminals often attempt to steal usernames, passwords, credit card details, bank account information, or other credentials. They use stolen information for malicious purposes, such as hacking, identity theft, or stealing money directly from bank accounts and credit cards. The information can also be sold in the cybercriminal world.
Phishing attacks attempt to steal sensitive information through emails, websites, text messages, or other forms of electronic communication. They try to look like official communications from legitimate companies or individuals, and often state that the transaction is urgent, important or confidential.
Phishing relies on human oversight or lapse in decision-making and the best protection is to ensure that your people are educated on what to look out for, and receive regular reminders.
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