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As Black Friday and the December holidays approach, cyber attackers are already preparing to take advantage of unsuspecting consumers through their online payments and identity theft. Typically, this is a time when consumers, companies, and employees let down their guard.

One of the reasons that the December holiday season sees an increase in cybercrimes such as phishing and ransomware attacks, is that fewer IT staff are on duty to monitor and respond to attacks in time.

Courier companies such as DHL, UPS and FedEx are ideal targets as online shopping for gifts increases. These platforms are often impersonated in phishing emails containing malicious links, which plant malware on computers, corporate networks or fraudulently obtain login and credit card information.

Human nature also has a role to play in that people tend to get tired of responding to Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) and eventually acknowledge the authentication requests almost automatically without really checking the credentials. MFA is an authentication method that requires the user to provide two or more verification forms to access their digital account, app or credentials. Hackers send through endless streams of requests for access and are often successful with less observant individuals, who usually find out too late that their accounts have been compromised due to inadequate attention and focus. The resulting fallout can be costly and stressful for the affected person or company.

What Types of Vulnerabilities can Cyber Criminals Exploit?

There are multiple vulnerabilities on a computer and in a network that cybercriminals can use to gain access.

Weak firewalls that allow hackers easy access to networks.
Connected devices are more prone to hacking attempts
Weak or reused passwords can lead to data breaches
Unsecured operating systems are targets for viruses and malware
Adware and spyware from unethical internet sites
Insufficient security controls
Outdates software

How to Reduce the Threat of Cyber Attacks

As the festive season approaches, there are several important actions that companies and individuals should take to mitigate their exposure to cyber risks.

Conducting employee awareness training
Reviewing and updating IT incident response plans.
Applying the latest vulnerability patches.
Identifying and mitigating potential vulnerabilities.

IT Audit for a Cyber Security Vulnerability Assessment

However, these actions may only be sufficient if there are enough staff to monitor the IT processes during the holidays. This is where contracting a professional, reliable and experienced IT support company is crucial. Westech, an IT company in South Africa, has been in operation since 1994, and amongst many of its IT service and support offerings, analyses, monitors and secures IT infrastructure against potential threats in real-time, 24/7. Once alerted to a potential breach, Westech’s skilled IT technicians quickly respond to neutralise the threat and eliminate the vulnerability.

Besides responding to threats, Westech also provides vulnerability assessments through thorough IT audits to ensure that your IT systems and networks remain protected and beyond the reach of cyber-attacks.

Backup Your Data NOW!

In addition to the above, Westech also recommends that you perform an additional backup of your data before December, and that this backup be stored physically offsite to ensure extra data security. Should you need assistance, Westech can help create a strong data protection strategy for your company.

For peace of mind regarding your IT infrastructure protection these holidays, or for further information, contact your Westech IT Technician, or email us on enquiries@westech.co.za.