Are Cyberattacks The New Normal In The US?
If you’ve read a few reports about cybersecurity trends, you might be wondering whether cyberattacks are the new normal in the U.S. It’s a question that many organizations are facing. In fact, a recent study shows that nearly half of small businesses have been attacked in the past year.
Cyberattacks, both intentional and accidental, can cause major damage to important IT assets. For example, a data breach can cost a company millions of dollars, and malicious software can lock out or restrict access to information.
Cyberattacks Cause Financial Loss
Cyberattacks can also disrupt operations, even if they do not result in financial loss. For example, the WannaCry attack crippled 200,000 computers in 150 countries. The Stuxnet cyberattack, which targeted Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, destroyed hundreds of centrifuges used for enrichment.
The rise of ransomware attacks has put US hospitals and schools in jeopardy. Many companies are struggling to keep up with the increased volume and sophistication of cyberattacks. These threats are not only financially destructive, but they can also affect the reputation of a business.
Cyber Alert And Advisory Framework
The Biden administration is aware of the problems associated with cyberattacks, and officials have warned against aggressive, sophisticated cyberattacks. But some cybersecurity experts say that it’s not enough to simply avoid cyberattacks. They argue that organizations need to take more proactive measures to protect themselves.
One key to staying ahead of cyberattacks is to establish a cyber alert and advisory framework. This provides timely warnings and recommendations. Companies can take action based on the framework. However, a lack of a broader understanding of the framework can cause them to miss a potentially serious threat.
Counter Automation Tools
Moreover, a growing number of organizations have not taken advantage of automation tools, which could help them reduce the amount of vigilance required to keep up with security issues. In addition, a new report found that 66% of small businesses experienced a cybersecurity attack in the last year.
With the rise of ransomware, cybersecurity experts are urging businesses to step up their game. Hackers have become more sophisticated, and they have developed new malware. Additionally, some attacks are using machine learning to adapt to a changing environment.
Novel Methods To Hack
To better understand how to respond to cyberattacks, companies should look at how they store, access, and protect data. Data needs to be protected physically, virtually, and on an ongoing basis. A company should also work with expert consultants to limit vigilance fatigue.
While the US government has taken a series of steps to prevent cyberattacks, it’s clear that hackers are still upping their game. In fact, more than a third of all cyberattacks in the past three years were carried out using methods that had not been seen before.
After Thought
Besides the threats to healthcare and education, the increase in remote working presents a new opportunity for hackers. As more workers are employed from home, hackers are capitalizing on these new vulnerabilities. Some video conferencing services have been affected by cyberattacks that exploit cybersecurity weaknesses in the remote working environment.
Please Read: Investment In Cybersecurity: Indicators And Priorities For CIOs
