Cyber attacks: Stronger, faster and more sophisticated
A recent cybersecurity report has uncovered some worrying trends that every business should take seriously.
First, cyberattacks are not only increasing in number but also in speed. The time it takes for a cybercriminal to start moving through your network after the initial breach—known as breakout time—has dramatically decreased. On average, it now takes just 62 minutes, a significant drop from 84 minutes last year.
This is a troubling development.
The attacks are not just faster; they’re also more prevalent. The report has identified 34 new cybercriminal groups, raising the total to over 230 groups that are currently being tracked.
These cybercriminals are becoming more sophisticated by the day. The report highlights a new record, where an attacker managed to infiltrate a network in just two minutes and seven seconds. That’s less time than it takes to make a cup of coffee—leaving little to no time for a response.
But the most concerning trend is the increasing role of human error in these breaches.
Cybercriminals often use phishing tactics, sending emails designed to trick your employees into clicking on malicious links that lead to fake login pages. Once they enter their credentials, the attackers gain access to your system.
In other cases, attackers use social engineering, pretending to be someone trustworthy to manipulate your team into giving up sensitive information.
So, how can you safeguard your business from these evolving threats?
Raise Awareness Among Employees Make sure your team is up to date on the latest cyber threats and knows how to identify them. Regular training is essential to prevent costly mistakes.
Strengthen Password Protocols Encourage the use of complex, randomly generated passwords and secure them with password managers. Implement multi-factor authentication to add an extra layer of security.
Stay Updated Ensure all software and systems are regularly updated with the latest security patches. Cybercriminals often exploit outdated software, so staying current is critical.
Invest in Advanced Cybersecurity Tools Consider investing in robust cybersecurity software that can detect and neutralize threats in real time. We can assist you in selecting the right tools for your business.
Regular Data Backups Consistently back up your data and store it securely. In the event of an attack, having backups can significantly reduce downtime and data loss.
When it comes to protecting your business, proactive measures are key. If you need help enhancing your cybersecurity strategy, reach out to us today.