A lot has been written about malware attacks on businesses. From ransomware – used to encrypt data and ask for a ransom, to spyware – meant to spy on user activities, various types of malware have been used by hackers. In most cases, malware attacks are detected much later, and the damage is already done. Something like ransomware can be aggressive and tricky, because there is no guarantee that paying the ransom will help. Hackers often also use malware that continue to infect other subnetworks and computers, while users are completely unaware of the damage.
There are certain steps that businesses can take for preventing malware attack. Right from using software like Genetec for IP cameras, to using firewalls, some steps are pretty basic. In this post, we are sharing what your company can do to avoid malware attacks.
- Know your threats
As we mentioned, malware attacks are of various types. Each malware has its own way of attacking systems and networks. Some are designed to exploit system vulnerabilities, while others trick users into granting admin access. The first step is to know the common malware threats and how these can impact your company. No two companies are same, and therefore, cyber threats may differ too. Knowing your threats helps in taking preventive steps.
- Train employees
Employees, unfortunately, are the weakest link in ensuring cybersecurity. They often end up installing malware unintentionally, because they just don’t know how to recognize a suspicious file. Make sure that your employees are trained and aware of your business threats. Train them on aspects like safe browsing, how to report an incident, and when to consider a file to be malware.
- Use antimalware software
There are various kinds of software programs available for countering malware. You can use antimalware, anti-adware, antispyware, and antivirus programs. These programs will not only help in detecting malware, but also create reports, which can be used to take necessary actions. Just don’t buy cheap or free programs – go for premium versions.
Final word
Malware attacks are avoidable, as long as you have a proactive approach to security. It is critical for businesses to have an incident response plan, so that appropriate measures can be taken in time, to avoid further damage. Depending on the extent of malware infection, you may have to inform authorities and agencies, especially if customer data has been compromised. Consider hiring security experts on payroll, if needed, for better cybersecurity.
