Cybersecurity Myths
Even with the growing awareness about cybersecurity, many myths about it are prevalent. These misconceptions can be a barrier to effective security.
The first step to ensure the security of your business is to separate the false information, myths, and rumors from the truth.
1. Cybercriminals only attack large businesses
Small and medium-sized businesses may often be under the false impression that their data isn’t valuable to hackers. However, small and medium-sized businesses are one of the top targets for hackers.
A recent study revealed that hackers targeted small businesses nearly half of the time. But only 14% of these businesses were prepared to defend themselves in such a situation.
Truth: No business – no matter how large or small, is ever immune to hacking attempts and malicious attacks.
Hackers don’t discriminate when it comes to their victims. So, don’t let the size of your business, determine how valuable your data is or how secure your assets are.
2. Anti-Virus Software is Enough
The anti-virus software is an essential part of your cybersecurity plan. However, it only secures one entry point into your system. Hackers have many ways to bypass anti-virus software and infiltrate networks with attacks such as targeted phishing attacks, and ransomware.
So, even with anti-malware software in place, hackers will have plenty of room to launch an attack.
Truth: Anti-virus software can only protect you from a unique set of recognized cyber threats, not from other emerging cyber threats.
As a business, you need to do much more to secure your data from hackers. Deploy an all-encompassing security solution like a Web Application Firewall that monitors threats continuously and provides end-to-end, 24*7 protection from cyber risks.
3. Cybersecurity is too expensive
Even as malicious cyberattacks continue to make headlines and cost businesses millions, companies still wonder if cybersecurity investments are worth it. Data security is frequently overlooked and is only an afterthought for many enterprises. The average cost of a data breach in 2021 is $4.24 million, the highest in the last 17 years. And this figure does not include the damage that comes with the crippling reputational losses and customer losses from a breach.
Truth: The cost of a good cybersecurity solution is nothing compared to the cost of a successful attack.
Invest in a modern security solution that can protect you from the latest threats. Moreover, there are many precautionary measures that you can take with absolutely no additional cost to your business, such as strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, access management, and employee training.
4. You don’t require Cybersecurity because you’ve never been attacked
If you’ve never experienced a cyberattack or data breach yourself, the chances are that you don’t know just how much damage they can cause. You may also assume that your current security posture is strong enough to keep the bad actors away since you’ve never been attacked.
However, cyber threats and hacking tools are continuously evolving to become more and more sophisticated and undetectable each day. And any sensitive data is a potential target for a breach.
Truth: You could easily be the next target.
Develop a sound security strategy that helps you identify existing weaknesses and mitigate attack attempts before any significant damage is caused.
5. You’ve Achieved Total Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity is a continuous process that needs to be upgraded with the changes in the threat landscape. Therefore, never stop working on securing your IT assets. Your organization will always be susceptible to existing and emerging threats.
Truth: There is no such thing as total or perfect cybersecurity against cyberattacks.
Review your security policies periodically, conduct security audits, monitor your critical assets continuously, and invest in the upcoming updates in security measures.
Cybersecurity Myths
