A data breach is more than just a temporary mishap. It can change the course of your business or even your life. Individuals, government offices and businesses can experience a lot of complications from a security breach.
Whether you are online or offline, hackers can get their way into your sensitive information through the internet, a text message, Bluetooth or an application. Without attention to detail, even the smallest of vulnerability can be a cause of major data breach.
Here, we will enumerate the most common causes of a data breach and how you can improve your data security, to reduce the threats. Also, remember that you can always hire reputable cyber security solutions to entrust these tasks.
Weak Passwords
Weak or stolen passwords cause a vast majority of data theft. If cybercriminals get a hold of your login credentials, they can enter your network anytime and do whatever they want with your information. And because most people use the same passwords on all of their accounts, criminals can easily access websites, emails, bank accounts, and other online accounts. To avoid this, use strong passwords, which can be a combination of alphanumeric and special characters.
Malware
Malware is created to bypass software security measures, giving cybercriminals access to computer systems that’s not theirs. These malicious applications often lie dormant until all information from a system has been collected. After which, they will need to execute a damaging strike. When using the internet, be cautious of the websites you visit. Also, avoid opening questionable links sent via emails.
Improper Configurations
Mistakes are inevitable, and we are bound to experience error somewhere along the road. For this one, it is wise to hire the correct professionals to provide you with the right cyber security solutions. The professional will help prevent user errors, and mistakes are kept to a minimum and only on areas where there is less critical information.
Too Many Permissions
A complex permission system is a gift to cybercriminals. Businesses that do not keep permissions tight and allow access to too many people in the organization are likely to give wrong permissions to the wrong individuals. The best and most obvious solution: keep it simple.
Loss of Device
Loss of device or physical theft is the second most common cause of data breach. An unencrypted external hard drive or laptop will surely be a source of confidential information. The solution is to lock your laptops, mobile phones and external hard drives with strong passwords. And always keep an eye on your belongings.
Applications
Many are guilty of using pirated applications and software. However, using pirated software can put a huge threat to your data safety. To keep your devices safe from data theft, always use licensed and updated software.
Internal Breaches
Perhaps, there’s a disgruntled employee, or maybe someone in the office believes they know better, who you have given access to confidential data, what’s stopping them from stealing, altering or destroying it? The best you can do is to know who you are dealing with. Act fast. If you just terminated an employee, make sure to remove his or her access to your system.
When planning how to prevent a possible data breach, consider everyone who interacts with the system. Even a child with a tablet on your home network is a potential vulnerability. So, whether you’re an individual or an enterprise, make sure to have the right security solution in place.
