- Cybercrime is growing more sophisticated and will cost the world $6 trillion annually by 2021.
- Businesses may face $10 trillion in annual cybercrime costs.
- Strong passwords, updating software, and two-factor authentication can prevent cyber attacks.
- Regular data backups and employee training on cybersecurity also help prevent cybercrime.
- Mac, Linux, and Windows are some viable options for safeguarding against cybercrime.
Today, cybercrime has become increasingly sophisticated and frequent. Banking fraud, ransomware attacks, and data theft are some of the common cyber crimes people face in their daily lives. According to the Cybersecurity Ventures Report, cybercrime will cost the world trillions of dollars in the coming years.
The Cost of Cybercrime
Cybercrime is on the rise, and alongside are its costs. It’s estimated that cybercrime will cost businesses around $10 trillion annually in the coming years. Here’s a review of some strategies for preventing cybercrime:
Use Strong Passwords
One of the most crucial aspects of cybersecurity is having a strong password. A weak password is an invitation for hackers to access personal information. A strong password should have at least 12 characters, including uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Many password managers, such as LastPass and 1Password, are available to help you manage your passwords and automatically generate strong passwords.
Keep Software Up to Date
Software updates bring improvements, bug fixes, and enhancements to the programs we use every day. However, many people ignore or delay the software update reminders due to inconvenience. Cybercriminals often use known vulnerabilities in outdated software to hack your computer. So, it’s essential to ensure that your software is regularly updated.
Turn on Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication is an essential security measure. It works by requiring additional code or biometric information, such as a fingerprint or facial recognition, and your password. By using two-factor authentication, a hacker would need access to your phone or biometric information to get into your accounts, making it much harder for them to break into your accounts.
Train Employees on Cybersecurity Best Practices
Cybersecurity is an individual responsibility and a collective effort across an organization. Training employees on cybersecurity and best practices can help prevent cyber-attacks and reinforce the culture of security within your business. Training sessions should include password management, phishing attacks, and protecting company data.
Regularly Back up Your Data
Creating regular data backups is essential in case of a ransomware attack or data loss. Attackers sometimes target backup data, so store your backups in a secure location. Many tools are available, such as cloud-based backup solutions like Google Drive or Dropbox. You can also use external hard drives or USB sticks to store a hard copy of important data.
Cloud Security
If you’re using the cloud, it’s essential to ensure your cloud data is secure. Implement security best practices such as two-factor authentication, strong password policies, and regular backups. Additionally, use encryption software to protect your data from unauthorized access.
The Best OS Against Cybercrime
Lastly, here’s a look into the best OS against cybercrime. These OS can make a difference in protecting your terminals against cybercrime.
Mac
One of the most common OS in the U.S. right now is Mac. This OS is known for its robust security features and sophisticated sandboxing technology. It also regularly receives updates to help protect you from the latest cyber threats. The best part is that it’s also friendly for remote access.
Remote access is a crucial part of many businesses’ operations, and Mac remote access is crucial if you want IT professionals to keep your terminals safe. They can access Macs remotely to keep them up-to-date and secure.
Blackburn
Blackburn is known for its reliable security features and open-source applications. It’s also a great OS for developers who want to create secure programs without worrying about malicious attacks.
Linux
Linux is an open-source platform and a great option for businesses that want reliable security with the flexibility of customizing their systems. It also has a wide range of distributions, including Ubuntu, Mint, and Red Hat. Linux is a preferred choice amongst IT professionals due to its stability and flexibility.
Windows
Finally, Windows is a well-known OS used by millions of people around the world. It features some basic security features, but Microsoft also provides regular updates and patches to ensure your system is secure against cyber threats. Windows also has powerful built-in tools for protecting your data from external threats.
Cybercrime is a real and growing threat to businesses, so it’s essential to stay one step ahead of attackers by implementing proper cybersecurity measures. Strong passwords, software updates, two-factor authentication, employee training on cybersecurity best practices, regular data backups, and using the right OS are all crucial steps in preventing cyber attacks.
