Cybercrime and 2018 Digital Security
- January 23, 2020
Digital Security
Cybercrime is on the rise like never before. Thanks to our ever-increasing demand and reliance on the internet, smart devices, social media and e-commerce, cybercriminals are coming out in their droves trying to steal information for financial gain.
As an individual, you are a high-risk target because they view you as easy pickings. Phishing emails are the primary way in which most cybercrimes start, and it is so important that you keep yourself updated and aware of the most common phishing email scams. If you get an email, question everything about it and its contents.
Malware is another very common threat. Arguably, the best way to negate the potential harm is to use a VPN, which adds a brand new level of security to your standard antivirus + firewall combo. Additionally, opening only emails from known sources helps a whole lot.[irp]
It is not just individuals, though. Companies are the highest and most lucrative target for cybercriminals. Why? Because large companies hold tons of data on their users. Are you seeing a theme here? Cybercriminals are interested in one thing and one thing only – data.
Data is such a valuable commodity and, with it, cybercriminals can commit all sorts of horrible crimes such as financial fraud, identity theft and even hold companies to ransom.
There are lots of ways which you can protect yourself and your business against cybercrime, though.
In the UK, the average security breach costs businesses around £36,500. Therefore, it should come as no surprise at all that the cybersecurity industry is worth an eye-watering $120 billion. Many companies are investing lots of money in the right preventative measures, stopping these cybercrimes from occurring.
You can prevent cybercrime too, by being wise with your passwords and how you behave on the internet. In addition to expensive software and services, more simple things such as encrypting wireless networks, changing your password regularly and keeping your operating system up to date can all prevent cybercrime.[irp]
Want to learn more? Check out our infographic below.
