How Cyber Criminals Exploit Cyber Security Weaknesses In A Business

Businesses are now reliant on digital technology to run their businesses. However, the reliance on technology can make them more vulnerable to cyber threats, this is because technology is continuously evolving.

Cyber criminals are proficient at identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities within a business, because of this, cyber-attacks happen.

This article will cover the exploitation tactics used by cyber criminals, and how businesses can mitigate the risks.

Cyber Security Vulnerabilities Defined

Security vulnerabilities are exploited by cyber criminals with the malicious aim of gaining unauthorised access and causing damage.  The vulnerabilities exploited range from misconfigurations to insecure networks and communication channels.

We will cover possible vulnerabilities below;

Misconfigurations:

Cyber Security Misconfigurations are security controls that have not been set up/configured correctly, or poorly documented.

Run a regular scan on all applications, doing so will reveal any security vulnerabilities. For a more thorough test, penetration testing can be carried out.  This simulates an attack with the purpose of determining if your system is secure and “hacker proof”.

This is something your IT Support company can help you with.

Unsecured API’s:

An API is an application programming interface which enables two applications to communicate with each other using a set of definitions and protocols.

APIs are critical for modern web services, but when they are not secured properly, they provide an easy entry point for cybercriminals.

Ensure API’s are regularly audited for vulnerabilities and have authentication in place.

Lack Of Strategy:

Many businesses especially smaller ones, don’t have a thorough cyber security strategy in place. Which makes them a target for cyber criminals.

Businesses of all sizes are extremely vulnerable to attacks if they do not have a cyber security strategy and the necessary infrastructure in place.

Insecure Networks & Communication Channels:

An unsecured network is like an open door for cybercriminals. Similarly, unsecured communication channels can lead to sensitive information being intercepted.

Businesses should secure their networks, encrypt their data and always have multi-factor authentication in place.

The Exploitation Tactics Used By Cyber Criminals

To protect against these vulnerabilities, businesses must adopt a proactive approach with their cyber security.

Solutions;

• Regular Updates And Patching: Keeping software and systems up-to-date to fix known vulnerabilities.
• Employee Training: Educating staff on recognising and avoiding potential cyber threats.
• Security Audits: Regularly reviewing and testing the security measures in place to identify and address any weaknesses.
  
  
  

How Businesses Can Mitigate The Risks

To protects against these vulnerabilities, businesses must adopt a proactive approach with their cyber security.

Solutions;

• Regular Updates And Patching: Keeping software and systems up-to-date to fix known vulnerabilities.
• Employee Training: Educating staff on recognising and avoiding potential cyber threats.
• Security Audits: Regularly reviewing and testing the security measures in place to identify and address any weaknesses.

Conclusion

Cybersecurity is not a one-time setup, but a continuous process of improvement and vigilance. By understanding the common vulnerabilities and taking proactive steps to address them, businesses can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to cybercriminals. The key is to stay informed, prepared, and resilient.

We hope this article has been useful for you.  If you have any questions at all, please don’t hesitate in asking us.  We have a team of experts here at Innovec who are always happy to assist and mitigate the risks to your business.

Call us today to schedule a chat at a time which suits you.