There are various security threats that can impact a typical company or personal computer system. It is essential to understand them to determine which ones pose the most risk.
Common Security Threats
Some common security threats that can impact computer systems and networks:
- Malware: Malware is malicious software designed to damage or gain unauthorized access to a computer system. It can be introduced to a company’s network through email attachments, downloads, or compromised websites.
- Phishing attacks: Phishing attacks are attempts to steal sensitive information, such as login credentials and credit card numbers, by posing as a trustworthy entity through email or other messaging platforms.
- Insider threats: Insider threats are caused by employees or contractors who have authorized access to the company’s network but may intentionally or unintentionally misuse it for personal gain or damage.
- Denial of Service (DoS) attacks: DoS attacks are intended to make a website or service unavailable to users by overwhelming it with traffic or flooding it with requests.
- Social engineering attacks: Social engineering attacks exploit human behavior and emotions to gain access to sensitive information or systems. Examples include pretexting, baiting, and quid pro quo tactics.
To determine which threats pose the most risk, a company can perform a risk assessment that takes into account their specific situation, assets, and vulnerabilities. The company can prioritize threats based on their likelihood of occurring and the potential impact they could have on the company’s operations, reputation, and financial stability. Once the threats are identified, appropriate security measures can be implemented to mitigate them.
Security Solution
There are numerous off the shelf products to help you mitigate many of these threats. One services I use is McAfee LiveSafe and VPN. With this protection, I can run a scan for threats, use real-time scanning or scheduled scans. This protection offers a personal data clean up tool, firewall and app boost feature. The VPN can be turned off and on if a site your accessing will not allow access with a VPN.
Check out my post on Cybersecurity Gaps as possible areas for improvements.
Need Advice?
Mike Greco has extensive experience implementing small business security solutions with off the shelf solutions.
Contact Mike to discuss ways to improve your personal or business computer system security.
Mike Greco is a finance expert and business consultant based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Mike holds an MBA from Chaminade University of Honolulu. He has a wealth of experience in the military, construction, and banking industries. He is passionate about helping people and businesses succeed and shares his knowledge through his blog. Mike enjoys spending time with his wife, Elsie, and their mini poodle, Humberto.
