Security Threats for Businesses 1 of 5

Installation of Malicious Software

Hackers are very smart and they know exactly how to trick someone into clicking on a link and this is very dangerous because as soon as that link is activated malware is downloaded onto your computer. Malware will infect your network and allow the attacker to steal any data they want. Another form that hackers will use is that they will send an email with an attachment that is infected with malware. In these cases the following steps can be taken so that you can avoid a dangerous situation like malware.

• Downloading files from a suspicious source can be very dangerous. Be sure to verify that the website is trusted especially if it is prompting you to download something. One of the easiest ways you can check for proof that the sender is reputable is double checking the URL of the website. Typically a hacker will change the URL ever so slightly that many times it goes unnoticed. For example the correct spelling may contain the letter O but a hacker will change it to the number 0. It’s so similar that when you are skimming through it can be overlooked. Do not download anything from that source until it’s deemed reliable. 
• Check the name of the file that you are about to download. Malware is usually given a file name again very similar to files that will seem to be real. Try to detect any misspelling, maybe unusual wording has been used, or the addition of an “s” on the end of a common name. If you know who the sender is supposed to be, avoid downloading the file until it’s verified that it was authentically sent from them. 
• The use of an antivirus program is very helpful in these situations. Scan the file before you install it onto your computer. The antivirus software will detect any malicious activity that may be encrypted in the file. 
• Sites that have torrents, adult content, or those that stream pirated videos will often be popular carriers of malware. Avoiding visiting these types of websites will keep your network safer. 

Cybersecurity is a very important part of all businesses and it is a constant battle to fight. Here at Sabat Age Consulting we are happy to take this task off your list of things to do. Don’t forget to check back for the next part in this cybersecurity series. We have four more tips to share!