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5 Elements To Include In A Comprehensive Cybersecurity Plan

Daniel Segun
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5 Elements To Include In A Comprehensive Cybersecurity Plan

Want to create a comprehensive cybersecurity plan? Read on!

Cybersecurity threats are increasing at an alarming rate. The worldwide cybercrime incidents exceeded 31,000 cases last year. Also, the global number of data breaches with confirmed data loss reached 3950 in 2019. 

Organizations must adopt robust cybersecurity measures to protect their business network from cyber-attacks and data breaches. A proper cybersecurity plan can help companies mitigate catastrophic damage caused by cybersecurity incidents.

A cybersecurity plan is a written document with comprehensive information about a company’s policies, processes, and measures to tackle potential IT security threats. Let’s look at the various elements of creating a solid cybersecurity plan.

Essential Components Of A Cybersecurity Plan

1. Identification of Key Assets

5 Elements To Include In A Comprehensive Cybersecurity Plan

Businesses can’t protect their network from cybersecurity incidents until they know what needs to be secured. Therefore, organizations must start by identifying the IT assets requiring protection.

These IT assets typically include servers, devices, and storage repositories. Once businesses have the necessary information about their essential IT assets, they should know where and how to store this critical data and protect its integrity.

For instance, they should know whether their client details and intellectual property information have been stored on-site, migrated to the cloud, or saved in the organization’s CRM software. 

2. Detection of Network Vulnerabilities of a Business 

Identifying vulnerabilities in a business’s network is essential to avoid exploitation. These vulnerabilities usually include outdated or unpatched software, misconfigured operating systems, privileged employee access, and more.

Timely detection will help organizations get their cybersecurity measures in order and avoid the chances of encountering a breach. Businesses can ensure that their various network vulnerabilities are fixed properly through: 

  • Regular software updates
  • Incorporation of Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) 
  • Setting up of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
  • Implementation of anti-virus, firewall, Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS), and spam filters

3. Conducting Regular Risk Assessment

Conducting Regular Risk Assessment

Risk assessment should be a critical part of an organization’s cybersecurity plan. It helps companies make informed decisions to reduce the occurrence of a cyber threat. Here’s how risk assessment works:

  • IT assets and threats are prioritized based on a business’s security concerns. Companies can know which assets are critical and which threats can be more harmful than others. 
  • Current organizational security is analyzed to determine if it is competent enough to mitigate potential threats and vulnerabilities. 
  • Probable losses and the recovery costs of potential cyber-attacks or data breaches are forecasted. 
  • Countermeasures for reducing cybersecurity risks are adopted. For instance, businesses can incorporate Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) tools to identify unauthorized access to a network and mitigate a potential malware attack.
  • The risk assessment process is analyzed regularly to ensure that security measures are relevant, up-to-date, and effective. 

READ ALSO: How To Prepare For A Cyber Assessment

4. Formulating an Incident Response (IR) Plan

Organizations should have a thorough knowledge of the effects of a cybersecurity incident and how to minimize the damage. An IR plan can help businesses prepare to deal with cybersecurity attacks and data breaches. It facilitates a systematic analysis and investigation to remediate a threat.

The IR plan should contain the following documented policies and procedures on incident management.

  • Highlighting the aim gives employees and stakeholders a detailed overview of what an IR plan is meant for. For instance, a financial firm’s IR plan should aim to prevent and mitigate the loss of its customers’ financial data. 
  • The plan should mention the established roles of the incident response team. For instance, while the team leader should be responsible for communicating the security incident to the business’s staff, the lead investigator should analyze the occurrences during a security incident. It is also essential to document these roles and communicate the respontheirilities. It will keep the incident response team well-coordinated. It will also let them know what to do when a cybersecurity threat arises. 
  • The plan should rank the potential cyber threats based on their severity. It will help the incident response team decide the level of response required for each cyber incident.
  • Further, the IR plan should contain procedures for detecting, analyzing, and mitigating a cybersecurity threat. For instance, the IR plan can incorporate end-point encryption to counter the attack in case of a potential ransomware attack. 
  • The IR plan should also include recovery techniques. For instance, if a ransomware attack penetrates a business’s network, the IR team can implement data backup and disaster recovery methods to recover critical business data and avoid downtime.
  • Finally, the IR plan should include processes for determining how the breach occurred and how similar incidents can be prevented. 

5. Parameters for Facilitating a Cybersecurity Training Program

Negligent and rogue employees can be a business’s most significant IT vulnerabilities. A cybersecurity plan should include parameters for facilitating training that enables employees to recognize common cyber threats. The training should cover the following objectives:

  • Educating employees on the importance of password security
  • Identification of suspicious emails, links, and attachments from unfamiliar people and organizations
  • Practicing safe handling and storing of sensitive business data such as trade secrets and financial reports
  • Underlining the risks associated with sharing Personal Identifiable Information (PII) on social platforms
  • Identification of suspicious behavior of colleagues and reporting it to the concerned authority
  • Communicating the importance of implementing proper device security policies for protecting their personal as well as company-owned devices 

Businesses need to understand the elements of a cybersecurity plan and integrate them seamlessly within their business network.

Companies can leverage professional cybersecurity services offered by IT support providers with the skills, resources, experience, and knowledge to implement all the elements of a cybersecurity plan effectively. 

Comprehensive Cybersecurity Plan: Frequently Asked Questions

A well-defined cybersecurity plan is like a suit of armor in the digital age, protecting your data and systems from ever-present threats. Here are some FAQs to guide you through the process of creating a comprehensive plan:

What does a comprehensive cybersecurity plan include?

A strong cybersecurity plan should address various aspects of digital security:

  • Risk Assessment: Identify and evaluate your vulnerabilities to cyberattacks. This includes your hardware, software, network infrastructure, and the type of data you store.
  • Security Policies and Procedures: Establish clear guidelines for password management, data handling, acceptable use of devices, and security incident response protocols.
  • Employee Training and Awareness: Educate staff on cybersecurity best practices, including recognizing phishing attempts, protecting sensitive information, and reporting suspicious activity.
  • Technical Safeguards: Implement security measures like firewalls, intrusion detection systems, data encryption, and regularly updated software to mitigate threats.
  • Incident Response Plan: Outline a clear procedure for identifying, containing, and recovering from a cyberattack to minimize damage and downtime.
  • Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery (BCDR): Develop a plan to ensure critical operations can resume in case of a cyberattack, natural disaster, or other disruptions.

How do I create a cybersecurity plan?

Here’s a roadmap to get you started:

  1. Assemble a Cybersecurity Team: Involve personnel from IT, management, and other relevant departments to create a well-rounded strategy.
  2. Conduct a Risk Assessment: Identify your vulnerabilities and prioritize threats based on likelihood and potential impact.
  3. Develop Security Policies: Establish clear guidelines and protocols for employees to follow.
  4. Implement Technical Safeguards: Invest in security software, firewalls, and encryption to fortify your defenses.
  5. Train Your Employees: Educate staff on cyber threats and best practices to make them active participants in security.
  6. Test and Refine: Regularly test your plan, identify gaps, and update your strategy to stay ahead of evolving threats.

Can I create a personal cybersecurity plan?

Absolutely! Here are some key elements of a personal cybersecurity plan:

  • Strong, Unique Passwords & 2FA: Use complex passwords for each account and enable two-factor authentication wherever possible.
  • Software Updates: Keep your operating system, web browser, and other software applications updated to patch vulnerabilities.
  • Beware of Phishing: Don’t click on suspicious links or attachments in emails or messages. Verify senders and be cautious of unsolicited offers.
  • Secure Your Wi-Fi: Avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities and secure your home Wi-Fi network with a strong password.
  • Data Backups: Regularly back up your important data to a separate storage device in case of a cyberattack or device failure.

Creating a comprehensive plan can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to a cyberattack, whether you’re an individual or an organization. Remember, cybersecurity is an ongoing process, so stay informed, adapt your plan as needed, and keep your digital defenses strong.

Wrap Up

Businesses need to be proactive in handling cyber-attacks and data breaches. From implementing robust countermeasures and security policies to providing cybersecurity training to staff, a good cybersecurity plan can help businesses successfully prevent and mitigate cybersecurity incidents.

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Is Voltage Stabilizer Required For Inverter AC?

Amaya Paucek | ✔️Fact-checked by: Christian Schmitz
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Is Voltage Stabilizer Required For Inverter AC?

In the inverter AC, a voltage stabilizer is required since it manages fluctuations in power and avoids irreparable harm. Perhaps a specific stabilizer has a fluctuating mechanism, i.e., an S-UTR compressor that manages fluctuations. However, although the variations surpass their range, they cannot regulate them.

To avoid such conflict, check some of the thProbuyer’s recommended stabilizers for home use, which are of standard quality and highly reliable.

We spoke to a representative from 2nd City Gas Plumbing & Heating, and they said” “Voltage stabilizers are devices that regulate the amount of voltage your appliance receives. When the voltage in your area fluctuates, a stabilizer ensures that your appliance receives a constant power flow. The voltage stabilizer ensures that all your gadgets and appliances perform properly without unwanted damage”.”

Benefits Of Voltage Stabilizer For AC

A stabilizer is needed for any appliance that is vulnerable to power fluctuations. The air conditioning inverters are not resistant to fluctuations in strength. More than capable of killing them, a voltage spike is needed. That is essential to reading the instruction manual and adequately using the AC. If you own a Toshiba AC, you can find a Toshiba air conditioner manual online if you lost yours.

Stabilizers can prevent this from occurring. Some individuals have argued that stabilizers are not required for inverter air conditioners. They believe that modern air conditioners have mechanisms that protect them from fluctuations in voltage.

Nonetheless, this is only partially accurate. These built-in mechanisms can protect only from variations within a specific range. Without additional protections, such as a voltage stabilizer, you can lose your air conditioner if the fluctuation exceeds the allowable range.

READ ALSO: Best Antivirus For 2022

Some argue that the above problem must not be addressed in areas that do not suffer dramatic fluctuations. The inbuilt safeguards of the air conditioner can seem to keep them safe. However, the variations within your region cannot be regulated or expected. If a loss wildly fluctuates the stress, you might lose your air conditioner before you realize your mistake.

That is why fluctuations are uncommon in your area; you are still advised to use a stabilizer only to avoid an unexpected event. Also, it protects your valuables from sudden and unforeseen voltage spikes or drops.

How Does A Voltage Stabilizer Work?

A voltage stabilizer operates by boosting and bucking.

The stabilizer will reduce the voltage when the voltage coming into your home reaches the amount defined by the appliance manufacturer, keeping it within the acceptable range.

This prevents the appliance from being fried by voltage spikes. The stabilizer will raise it if the voltage in your home drops below the necessary level. This will prevent the power supply gap from dramatically restricting your appliance’s output.

What Is An Inverter AC?

These are very different from a non-inverter AC, as a traditional air conditioner absorbs the air within a room and uses an evaporator to cool it before forcing it back out. However, the functions of a standard AC rely heavily on the compressor.

But There’s not always a compressor on. In the beginning, when the AC has just been turned on, the device will activate. The thermostat will warn the compressor until the specified temperature is reached, allowing it to shut off.

After this process, the sound you hear from your AC comes from the fan that remains on. Only if the temperature rises above the specified amount will the compressor activate.

Also, Inverter ACs use just as much energy as a part needs to cool down. That is to say, they are adjusting their operations to suit the eacroom’s demands.

Can We Connect the AC Without A Stabilizer?

You can attach it without a stabilizer if your AC has an S-UTR compressor. Its internal mechanisms can keep the power supply of the air conditioner secure.

What if there is no S-UTR compressor in the device? Several manufacturers say their ACs have integrated stabilizers, so there’s no need for an external stabilizer.

However, in their manuals, these same manufacturers still caution against the protection of air conditioning in the case of a severe power fluctuation caused by their built-in stabilizer.

So, without a stabilizer, you can attach an AC. But it would be much better to get an external stabilizer.

READ ALSO: Best VPN For 2022

How Much KVA Voltage Stabilizers Are Required?

For example, if you want a 1000-watt appliance covered by your stabilizer, you need a stabilizer with a rating of 1.2kVA (1,200 VA). Also, according to your equipment requirement, you require a stabilizer of the correct size.

Is Inverter Technology Energy-Efficient?

In an AC non-inverter, before shutting off, the compressor only turns on long enough to lower the temperature to the amount necessary. As such, inverter ACs utilize paramount power compared to non-inverter counterparts.

However, the opposite is accurate as the AC inverter compressor remains on. However, the inverter technology controls the quantity of compressor use. But in non-inverter ACs, it doesn’t, as their compressors perform at total capacity at all times, thus reducing your home’s consumption in the long run.

Conclusion

Technically speaking, you can do without a stabilizer, mainly if your AC inverter is a modern model.

However, you cannot guarantee the protection of your air conditioner unless it includes an S-UTR compressor and an integrated stabilizer. That is why homeowners are advised to use a stabilizer to take the careful lane.

Interesting Reads

Corroborate Understanding Of Cybersecurity With Translation

Amaya Paucek
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Corroborate Understanding Of Cybersecurity With Translation

Can cyber attacks affect online document translation? Read on as we show you how cybersecurity corroborates with translation.

The field of internet and technology is continuously evolving. While this internet has opened doors for many new and existing businesses to grow and flourish, it also holds a dark side that is often overlooked. Due to businesses’ high reliance on technology, digital data creation has emerged, giving rise to millions of terabytes of data being shared on the internet.

However, the data that is shared online needs to be ‘secured’ as well,’ as leakage of this data means huge losses for companies—this ‘security’ emerges from a term commonly known as cybersecurity. Cybersecurity ensures integrity, confidentiality, and availability of information shared on the internet.

Also known as information security, it comprises tools such as risk management, training, and technologies to protect networks, devices, and data from unauthorized access and usage.

Data protection is so essential that companies that have failed to secure their data may find themselves in huge losses. According to an estimate, a data breach can cost an organization approximately $3.6 million on average. This means corporations lose about $300 billion to $1 trillion annually due to these cyberattacks. 

Fortunately, some ways have surfaced, ensuring that data is secured and data security knowledge is available to all. Translation aids in making this knowledge accessible to all, especially to those most vulnerable. You can learn how to translate on Google using this guide.

Corroborating Your Cybersecurity Knowledge Through Translation

Corroborating Your Cybersecurity Knowledge Through Translation

Here’s a strategHere’solidify your understanding of cybersecurity by translating key concepts into different languages:

  1. Choose Core Cybersecurity Terms: Start with a list of fundamental cybersecurity terms like “encryption,” “phishing,” “firewall,” “vulnerability,” “authentication,” and “multi-factor authentication (MFA).”

  2. Understanding Through Translation: Once you have the translations, explain the concept behind each term in your own words without referring back to the English definition. This forces you to grasp and rephrase the core meaning using your understanding.

  3. Reverse Translation (Optional): After formulating your explanation, try translating it into English. This step helps identify any misunderstandings you might have and refines your comprehension.

  4. Expand Your Knowledge: Look for cybersecurity resources in your chosen target language. This could be news articles, blog posts, or even short videos. Understanding these resources will further solidify your knowledge and expose you to different perspectives on cybersecurity.

By using translation as a learning tool, you can effectively solidify your grasp of cybersecurity concepts and broaden your knowledge base uniquely and engagingly.

Here are a few types of cybersecurity threats, examples of cyberattacks, and how translation can aid cybersecurity efforts. 

Cyber Threats—the types

A challenging task in dealing with vast amounts is ensuring its confidentiality and security. However, cyber threats can wreak havoc with this data protection, making it mandatory to employ cybersecurity measures to keep data secure. Cyber threats can take many forms, of which the most common ones are:

  • Malware: a form of malicious software, malware damages the working of computers. Trojan horses, key loggers, and spyware are common types of malware.
  • Phishing Attacks: phishing is one of the most common cyber threats. Phishing is a form of fraud where fake and fraudulent emails are sent that resemble emails from reputable sources. This is why these emails aim to steal personal data such as credit card and login information. 
  • Ransomware: This is malware that encrypts data unless a ‘ransom’ is paid ‘ for it.’ Countless companies worldwide have been affected by ransomware viruses through these times. 
  • Social Engineering: relying on human interaction, social engineering tricks users into breaking security protocols and guidelines while obtaining sensitive information that is usually secured. 

READ ALSO: Why Your Business Needs To Invest In Cybersecurity Solutions

Cyber Threats—the types

Some Examples of Cyber Threats

There have been countless examples of cyberattacks throughout history since the internet evolved. While most of these cyberattacks have been dealt with, they are an example of how severe impacts these cyber threats can impose.

Additionally, these cyberattacks have weakened companies’ internal data management systems, resulting in huge losses that are still unrecoverable.

Here are a few examples of countries that have been most affected by cyberattacks over the years:

1. The Case of Denmark

Initially starting in 2015, cyberattacks in Denmark gained momentum in 2017. The servers, as well as email accounts of staff members of Danish Ministries, were attacked many times.

Some examples of these attacks are the “Petya” ransomwa”e tha” affected Denmark’s largesDenmark’scs and transport giant and Denial of Service attacks (DDoS) from Turkish hacking groups in 2017.

2. Cyber Attacks on Russia

Believed to be the source of many cyber crimes, Russia has been vulnerable to cyberattacks for a long time.

The Petya ransomware that affected Denmark companies also attacked large Russian organizations such as Rosneft, the biggest producer of oil in the country.

Other than that, a ransomware ‘WannaCry’ affec’ed a lar’e number of computer systems in Russia, threatening the office of the Russian Interior Ministry.

3. Cyber Crimes in Japan

When it comes to cyberattacks, Japan has been quite vulnerable to such attacks. WannaCry, ransomware affected more than 500 computers in Japan and forced Honda Motors Company to suspend operations.

Cyberattacks on Japan caused a leak of approximately 12.6 million corporate information.

Cybersecurity With Translation—How are they Related?

Cybersecurity With Translation—How are they Related?

The technology field has terms and jargon that are not understandable to everyone. Only those people who are computer experts can understand the terminologies related to computers.

This is why most businesses are affected by cyber threats—their employees know little about these data attacks. 

READ ALSO: Is Google Translate Secure? [We Have The Answer]

However, translation plays an important role in equipping these staff members with the knowledge and guidelines of cybersecurity. If made available across companies, the translated guideline documents and texts can pave the way for protection against data threats and cyberattacks.

This is why the IT departments of organizations should have their procedures and guidelines translated by professional translation agencies in more than one language so that they are accessible and understandable to all.

Moreover, a senior official may not notice that data has leaked due to little knowledge of cyberattacks or facing threats. In that case, a translated manual enlisting all the guidelines to detect data breaches will be extremely useful in avoiding these threats, resulting in minimizing losses. 

The Last Word

As technology continues to evolve and grow, threats to secure and confidential data are to be expected. However, companies can take practical steps to deal with these threats while reducing the chances of losses by ensuring their employees are aware of these cyberattacks.

This can be ensured by translating the guidelines, procedures, and instructions on how to avoid and deal with cyberattacks. While a professional translation agency will be the best partner in securing confidential information, the right proactive approach can be a massive step in guaranteeing that the company does not face any cyber threats and losses. 

What are your thoughts regarding cybersecurity with translation?

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Tips & Reasons Why You Should Compress Your PDF Through GogoPDF

Chandra Palan
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Tips & Reasons Why You Should Compress Your PDF Through GogoPDF

Are you looking for a tool to compress your massive PDF file to a smaller one? If so, you have come to the right place. The service provider for a PDF compressor tool recommended to you is the Gogo PDFs Compress PDF tool. It gets the job done efficiently within seconds! If you want to know more about this tool, keep on scrolling. 

Why compress PDF files?

Before we discuss why you should compress PDF online with GogoPDF, let us examine why you need to compress your files. Everyone doesn’t need to shorten their files, which only applies to people who wish to do this process.

The primary purpose of compressing your PDF files is to reduce the size of your large files to a smaller version so you can send them more efficiently through email or the messaging features of your social media accounts. Large files are challenging and impossible to send via email or social media.

You could also do this process if you wish to save more space on your device, especially if you keep many large PDF files. As a heads up, you may not be able to convert them back to the original state once you have compressed the PDF files, so make sure you are okay with this or have saved a backup file somewhere.

Why compress with GogoPDF?

Tips & Reasons Why You Should Compress Your PDF Through GogoPDF

Now, let’s discuss why we recommend GogoPDF so much. In this era of technology, we can quickly look them up through a search engine like Google to look for something. Type in “compress PDF tool” or anything like that, and hundreds of thousands of results will appear on your screen.

Carelessly picking random compressor tools is not wise and safe, as they could harm you. Some applications or websites will entice you with their “free to use” tools when inaccessible and force you to subscribe to their services and pay a fortune.

Although GogoPDF is free to use these tools, they have ensured that their system is accessible to everyone and will not require people to spend a single penny on their services. You will not be required to register an account to access it. Their registration and subscription services are not yet available but will be offered to everyone willing to try.

Privacy Policy

It would be best to consider the website’s security and the security of your data or personal information. Some websites will appear “secure” but will steal your information once you access their tools. 

Even if the website does not secretly steal your data, its security might be an issue, too, since some websites do not have a system to prevent hackers from stealing their client’s data and information.

With GogoPDF, they have ensured that their system is safe and secure for everyone as their client, and their security is their priority. After you finish compressing your PDF file or processing a document using their system, GogoPDF will automatically delete your file from their system after an hour.

This method helps clients who forget things, like deleting the file from their server. If you wish to learn more about their privacy policy, you can check their website. 

How to use their compressed PDF tool

How to use their compressed PDF tool

Before you think of anything, compressing PDF files is not some “professional work,” so you don’t have to worry about going through a challenging and complicated process. You will only need a few moments and a few clicks or taps.

First, go to their website, look for the “Compress” or “Compress PDF” tool, and click it. You will be redirected to their website’s device, and you will immediately see this compressed PDF tool and the instructions below it.

They have simplified and made it easy to comprehend so their clients can easily follow the four easy steps. The first step in compressing your PDF file is to locate or navigate the file you wish to compress.

You may pick to drag them from your folder, click “Select Files” and look for the file on your computer or device, or take the file from your Google Drive cloud storage or your Dropbox account.

After choosing your file, you only need to click the button, sit back, relax, and wait for the magic to happen. In just seconds, GogoPDF will start processing and compressing your file. After completing it, you may save the compressed file to your computer or share it as a URL.

Quality

When compressing PDF files, the problem you could face is that your file’s quality might be compromised, mainly if it contains media or images. You might have to go through complicated steps to ensure your PDF quality is retained or high.

An example of what you will need to do is separate your media, and you will need to learn how to compress images as well; we are sure that everyone wants to go through a less complicated process. With GogoPDF, this problem will not occur to you as they have ensured that your compressed PDF will have a high-quality output.

Free vs. Paid

Most people debate which option they should choose; in reality, it doesn’t matter which choice you make. Whether it is paid or free, it will matter if their website will respect your privacy and will meet your desires. Paid subscriptions, though, may give you way better assistance on your transactions. 

Other Features

GogoPDF is not only all about compressing PDF files since it offers a lot more services, such as converting files, like Word documents or Excel Spreadsheets, from or to a PDF file format, splitting and merging PDF files, protecting PDFs, and so much more. Head to their website to know more.

Takeaway

GogoPDF thinks of what they can gain from their clients and what services and assistance they can offer them. We hope we have helped you figure out what it means to compress PDF files and convert them.

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10 Most Common Cyber Threats [MUST READ]

Daniel Segun | ✔️Fact-checked by: Angela Daniel
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10 Most Common Cyber Threats [MUST READ]

This post will show you the 10 most common cyber threats.

The usage of the internet has become a widespread phenomenon in recent times. Though the benefits of the internet are countless, it has also brought along many problems with itself. Among many other issues with internet usage, the most common problem is the constant cyber threats that individuals and businesses face.

A well-designed cyber-attack can crumble the entire infrastructure of a business. It can badly impact the business’s reputation and operations.

These threats affect businesses and individuals and can ruin your computer system. This is why it is essential for anyone who uses the internet to have knowledge of common cyber threats and how to avoid them.

Here are the ten most common cyber threats that are prevalent today.

10 Most Common Cyber Threats

  1. Malware

Malware stands for “malicious software”. It is one of the most common attacks affecting users. A malware attack occurs when cyber attackers create harmful software to infect its target systems.

When the user visits a particular website, opens a malware-infected file, or clicks a link, the malware gets installed into their system. It can then be used for hacking into a database, causing a privacy breach, or gathering critical business information.

Malware can be of different types, and the most common are viruses, ransomware, spyware, worms, and Trojan horses. The key to protecting yourself against malware is never downloading suspicious files and regularly installing an anti-malware program into your system.

Phishing Attacks

  1. Phishing Attacks

Phishing attacks are the second most common type of cyber-attacks. Also known as a phishing scam, it works by putting bait for the user and infecting their system. A scammer sends a link, usually via email, and tricks the user into clicking the link. Once the user clicks on a phishing link, their system gets compromised.

Spear phishing is a specific phishing scam where the user studies their victim before targeting them and sends them personalized messages that seem to be from relevant and trusted sources. It is for this reason that spear-phishing attacks are usually very successful.

The best way to avoid phishing attacks is to educate your employees about different phishing techniques and how to recognize them. They should know the best practices of staying vigilant before opening an email. Always hover over the link to check the URL before trying to open it.

READ ALSO: 6 Most Common Web Security Vulnerabilities (And How To Tackle Them)

  1. Eavesdropping Attack

Eavesdropping attacks are exactly what they sound like. In an eavesdropping attack, the attacker spies on the system’s traffic to get access to sensitive information like passwords and credit card numbers. There are two types of eavesdropping attacks.

In Passive eavesdropping, the hacker gets useful information by acquiring data from a system’s network. In active eavesdropping, a hacker disguises themself as a relevant person and extracts essential information.

Data encryption is one of the most important ways to protect yourself from an eavesdropping attack.

  1. SQL Injections

SQL injections are carried out on systems that use SQL databases. An SQL database is typically coding statements implemented to HTML form through a webpage.

An SQL injection works by inserting commands inside the code and modifying it to run various operations that may not necessarily be in the business’s best interest.

By getting complete control, the hacker can dictate how the system will operate according to them. Hence, a successful SQL injection can result in devastating results for a business.

Use strong codes and strengthen your database’s permission model to protect your system from SQL injection attacks.

READ ALSO: Cyber Threats: How to Secure your Computer against Cyber Threats

  1. Denial of Service (DoS) and Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) Attacks

These attacks aim to flood the network with irregular traffic to the extent that it stops providing any service.

It does not end here; instead, when the victim is looking for a way to come out of the issue, the cyber attacker takes control of other systems to get access to confidential data or the company’s financial accounts.

Even if gaining information access is not the attacker’s motive, a DoS attack can severely blow an organization’s reputation and cause severe financial losses when its service goes down. To prevent this threat, it’s imperative to deploy an effective DDoS monitoring tool.

  1. Brute-Force Attack

As the name suggests, in a brute-force attack, cybercriminals access a user’s system by force.

They use different password combinations to gain a system’s access. Password combinations are derived by using the victim’s date of birth, hobbies, job, workplace, or any other words they can use as their password.

Organizations must implement a lockout policy to prevent a brute-force attack. This means that after several unsuccessful user attempts, the system locks the account temporarily and only reopens after a specific time when accessed by the actual owner.

  1. Artificial Intelligence Attack

Artificial Intelligence Attack

The increased usage of artificial intelligence technology in digital marketing also has a downside.

This type of cyber-attack uses sophisticated machinery to gain access to a system and exploit vulnerabilities in the system.

READ ALSO: 10 Most Secure Operating Systems (#9 Is Our Favourite)

  1. Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) Attacks

A Man-in-the-Middle attack occurs when an attacker quietly places themselves between a server and a client.

MitM attacks can take place in many ways, the most common of which are IP Spoofing, Hijacking, and Replay. The hacker or the middleman intercepts the connection between two parties and communicates with them from both ends, making them believe that they are communicating.

While pretending to be a trusted source, hackers can extract confidential information from the other party or communicate misinformation.

  1. Cross-Site Scripting

A cross-site scripting or XXS attack works similar to SQL injections but instead of extracting data from the database, they infect the person visiting the domain.

These attacks aim to extract customer’s information, such as bank or credit card details, and cause damage to customer loyalty and business reputation in the long run.

  1. Cryptojacking

Cryptocurrency is now an acceptable way of carrying out financial transactions for many. Cryptojacking, also known as malicious crypto mining, is an emerging threat in which a hacker uses a victim’s mobile device or computer’s resources to “mine” cryptocurrency without their knowledge or consent.

Instead of using dedicated servers for mining, they use other systems’ resources to mine currency, slowing down the victim’s device.

It’s not easy to determine whether your device is under a crypto-jacking attack. The best way to prevent it from happening is to block JavaScript in your browser when you don’t require its functionality. Likewise, you can use programs like Miner Block or No Coin to block any mining activity in common browsers.

READ ALSO: What Are Phishing Scams And How You Can Avoid Them?

Navigating the Digital Landscape: FAQs About Common Cyber Threats

The ever-evolving world of cybersecurity comes with a constant barrage of threats. Here are some FAQs to help you understand the most common dangers lurking online:

What are the most common cyber threats?

Several cyber threats plague individuals and organizations alike. Here are some of the most widespread:

  • Phishing: Deceptive emails or messages designed to trick you into revealing personal information, clicking on malicious links, or downloading malware.
  • Malware: Malicious software that can infect your device, steal data, disrupt operations, or hold your information hostage (ransomware).
  • Social Engineering: Manipulation tactics used to trick you into compromising security measures or granting access to systems or data.
  • Denial-of-Service (DoS) Attacks: Overwhelming a website or server with traffic to render it inaccessible to legitimate users.
  • Password Attacks: Techniques to guess or crack your passwords, allowing unauthorized access to accounts.
  • Man-in-the-Middle Attacks: Intercepting communication between your device and another source (e.g., Wi-Fi network) to steal data.
  • Zero-Day Attacks: Exploiting previously unknown vulnerabilities in software before a patch is available.

What is the #1 cybersecurity threat today?

Identifying a single “number one” threat is challenging as the landscape keeps shifting. Phishing and social engineering remain prevalent due to their effectiveness in exploiting human vulnerabilities. Ransomware attacks are also a primary concern, causing significant disruption and financial losses.

What can I do to protect myself?

Here are some essential cybersecurity practices to safeguard yourself:

  • Be cautious with emails and links: Don’t click on suspicious links or attachments; be wary of unsolicited emails, even if they appear to come from legitimate sources.
  • Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security.
  • Keep your software updated: Regularly update your operating system, web browser, and other applications to patch security vulnerabilities.
  • Be mindful of public Wi-Fi: Avoid accessing sensitive information on unsecured networks.
  • Back up your data: Regularly back up your important files to a separate storage device in case of a cyberattack or failure.
  • Be selective about what information you share online: Limit the personal information you share on social media and other public platforms.

Understanding these common threats and taking steps to protect yourself can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to a cyberattack.

Conclusion

In an online threat landscape that is progressively changing daily, it’s a full-time job to stay safe from the latest menaces.

It’s always a good choice for businesses to invest in a complete cybersecurity solution that can save them from potential attacks, protect against more significant financial losses, and ensure that your computer resources are yours alone.

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How To Calculate Your Short-Term Vacation Rental Cash Flow

Daniel Segun | ✔️Fact-checked by: Angela Daniel
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How To Calculate Your Short-Term Vacation Rental Cash Flow

Why should every short-term rental owner use a rental property profitability calculator? Learn more about how to gauge the profitability of your business

Investors are turning towards buy-and-hold strategies to offset current real estate high prices, and for good reason—this allows them to recoup as much lost money as possible (if not all) by renting out their properties.

The most popular investment option is offering short-term rentals.

The savviest real estate investors today are looking for just the right vacation rental properties. However, how can you tell if an investment is worth your time and money?

The answer is cash flow calculation.

For an investor in the short-term rental industry, a property investment calculator is an invaluable tool for assessing profitability performance.

READ ALSO: Phone Photography: Photography Tips On The Phone

Why Is It Important To Calculate Rental Cash Flow?

One of the best things you can enjoy from investing in short-term rentals is good cash flow.

A positive cash flow fosters wealth growth, giving you a chance to achieve the financial freedom you’ve been yearning for.

Understanding cash flow

When looking at any real estate investment opportunity, you must examine income and expenses to determine profitability and forecast performance. With these key elements, you will understand the cash flow a property will generate.

Cash flow is the profit you gain after collecting income, paying operating expenses, and putting aside money for future repairs. Cash flow is the main lever for increasing passive income for the buy-and-hold real estate investor.

Why should you always aim for a positive cash flow?

The aim of investing in short-term rentals is to earn more money than you are spending each month. Proper strategies and systems convert cash flow into a dependable passive income stream. Income comes in weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annually without working at a typical nine-to-five job.

What else can positive cash flow do for you?

  • It creates more reinvestment opportunities to grow your financial well-being. 
  • It helps create a larger savings reserve that protects you against unexpected life expenses, like medical bills and property maintenance.
  • It lets you spend more time with family and friends and focus on passion projects or personal growth.

How Much Cash Flow Should Your Vacation Rental Make?

How Much Cash Flow Should Your Vacation Rental Make

When buying a short-term vacation home purely as a cash-flow real estate investment, you should target an annual income of about 10 to 12 percent of the home’s price. You may not be within the same range if you intend to use it often for personal reasons. Clearly, the more you stay at the property, the less revenue it would make.

Renting out your second home as a short-term rental generates better cash flow than renting out a single room or sporadically.

However, several things can affect your cash-flow, such as:

Vacancy rate

Short-term rentals are subject to seasonal fluctuations.

Vacation rentals often accommodate travelers at a specific time of year—whether in summer, winter, or any season. Rentals on the beach are likely to be in high demand during peak seasons, ranging from spring to summer. Mountain cabins are highly sought after during colder seasons and are popular because of their proximity to ski resorts.

So, your short-term rental should be associated with a busy season. However, there are always low seasons. This is where you will find one of the trickiest financial aspects of running a vacation rental property: vacancies.

Expect your property to be vacant for a longer period during these seasons. And ignoring such inconsistencies can harm your cash flow. So, you need to develop strategies to still attract guests, such as offering lower prices or adding more inclusions to your services.

Peak season rates

After each low season, there is a peak season that allows you to tip the scale in your favor.

Peak seasons represent the pinnacle of demand for your short-term rental. When demand rises, you can increase your rental rates, too. This means you can charge a premium for services you offer at the right time of the year, especially if your neighborhood is in high demand.

A well-positioned short-term rental may charge as much as a month’s mortgage in a week. So, while you need to account for vacancies during cash flow calculation, you do not lose anything. Busy seasons help pick up the slack!

Fees and other expenses

Pay attention to what you expect to make on a prospective short-term rental deal. Plus, consider the expenses that go into owning that property.

Owning a vacation rental is basically synonymous with having fees and expenses. However, your chosen property can offset expenses with an impressive cash flow.

Some expenses that go into running a vacation rental property and affect the figures you get from a property investment calculator include property management fees, homeowners association (HOA) fees, and mortgage payments.

Comparable properties

Also known as competition, comparable properties are similar rentals close to yours. Regardless, they play a critical role in determining the cash flow performance of your real estate investment. They can gauge how much return on investment (ROI) to expect from your property.

Assessing similar properties also helps you determine how much rent you can charge. You risk losing guests if you charge more than a comparable rental nearby. However, you can always include helpful features, such as a network optimized for VoIP, to justify higher rates.

After all, why would you reduce your cash flow by charging cheaper?

READ ALSO: Property Maintenance Essentials: Keeping Your Rental in Top Shape

How To Calculate Vacation Rental Cash Flow

How to Calculate Vacation Rental Cash Flow

The basic formula is:

Total Income minus Total Expenses = Cash Flow

The calculation is deceptively simple, but much more is required to predict the income and expenses going into short-term rental properties.

Step 1: Calculate gross income.

This step involves getting the income that the property generates annually.

Gross Potential Rent plus Other Income Sources minus Vacancy Rate = Gross Income

The gross potential rent is your nightly rate multiplied by the average nights you think the property will be occupied monthly.

Other income sources include pet fees, parking, and utility reimbursements.

The vacancy rate is when there are no guests because of a low season or a renovation project.

Step 2: Calculate gross expenses.

All rental properties come with several recurring expenses. While such costs are different for each property, the most common are:

  • Insurance
  • HOA and Property Owners Association (POA) fees
  • Repairs and maintenance
  • Seasonal expenses, such as updates to the central air-conditioning unit and snow removal
  • Marketing expenses
  • Utility expenses, such as sewer maintenance, gas, water, electricity, and waste management
  • Business licenses
  • Other expenses for the daily running of the business

Step 3: Get the net operating income (NOI).

Estimate your short-term property’s profitability using the simple formula below.

Gross Income minus Gross Expenses = NOI

NOI tells you how much income is left over after paying for everyday short-term rental expenses. Calculating how much is available to pay equity partners and lenders is critical.

However, a critical component is still missing!

The missing factor is capital expenditures (CapEx). These are expenses that occur less frequently, including the replacement of significant property components like the roof. While calculating your cash flow, account for the money you will put into purchasing big-ticket items, like HVAC and a home alarm system.

The best short-term rental investor assigns about five percent of their income to cover unexpected small and large costs. The amount also ensures you are ready for emergency major repair jobs. Be sure to set the percentage depending on the current condition of your property.

NOI minus CapEx Funds = Adjusted NOI

Step 4: Calculate cash flow before taxes.

Subtract the amount you will spend on your mortgage payment, interest, and principal from the adjusted NOI. Add to the resulting amount the loans you may have taken to cover capital improvements to your property. Remember to include any interests from investments or loans made on behalf of the property.

Adjusted NOI minus Debt Servicing plus Loan Proceeds plus Interest Earned on Loans = Cash Flow Before Taxes (CFBT)

Step 5: Compute the after-tax cash flow.

CFBT is a taxable income. Multiply it by your marginal tax bracket to determine if there is an additional tax or if you would be saving money on taxes.

CFBT multiplied by Tax Bracket Percentage = After-Tax Cash Flow

If the calculations seem mind-boggling, a rental profitability calculator can help.

READ ALSO: How To Rent A Cheap Car In Various Countries

Using A Rental Property Return Calculator

Property investment calculators, such as the rental property calculator at theshorttermshop.com, are useful tools for both beginners and professional real estate investors. They make it easy for you to analyze the numbers you input to test the profitability of your short-term rental.

To use a rental property return calculator, you only input basic information, such as your average daily rate, monthly operating expenses, and financing costs.

The calculator then generates critical metrics to help you determine whether your short-term rental is performing well. Metrics available on a free rental property calculator typically include:

  • Cap rate
  • Cash on cash return
  • Net annual cash flow

A rental property profitability calculator is a must-have tool if you are interested in real estate investments. Whether you are starting your short-term rental journey or are a seasoned investor, using this calculator is always an intelligent decision.

To Sum Up

Learning how to calculate cash flow and use a property investment calculator is critical to avoid costly errors. Before you increase rent and get ahead of the competition, you must know your cash flow. This way, you can take the proper steps toward financial success.

Adopting tech in your business is hard, so you will need a lot of advice along the way. SecureBlitz curates the latest tips, news, and information on technology, making it an excellent source of opinions that you can use for business.

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5 Ways To Identify Phishing Or Fake Websites

Chandra Palan
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5 Ways To Identify Phishing Or Fake Websites

This post will show you 5 ways to identify phishing or fake websites.

One of the most significant transformations that the business world has witnessed (especially during the COVID-19 era) is the liberal advancements in eCommerce. An overwhelming population worldwide is now acquainted with eCommerce features, and most people have resolved to conduct their transactions online.

According to Statista, it is estimated that there will be over 300 million online shoppers in the US alone by 2023. Advancements have aided the increased overreliance on eCommerce in web and internet technology. 

Several risks come with increased overreliance on eCommerce and a rapid increase in websites. One of the threats that are destroying the internet world is fake websites (sometimes referred to as phishing websites).

Phishing websites have become increasingly prevalent. They generate billions of dollars in fraudulent revenues for their owners at the expense of unwary victims.

The websites capitalize on proper website designs and appearances, making it almost impossible for users to identify them as fake websites. 

5 Ways To Identify Phishing Or Fake Websites

Website designers and IT experts have taken a few steps to try to prosecute the menaces brought about by fake websites. They have come up with automated detection systems that detect illegitimate websites.

However, most of these automated detection systems have proved ineffective as they are susceptible to several obfuscation techniques that fraudsters employ.

As a result, these systems’ fake website detection capabilities and performances are highly inefficient. Detecting fake websites, therefore, remains an achievable endeavor for Hornet’s hornet.

In this article, I propose some of the five most effective methods that you can use to detect fake websites.

READ ALSO: What Is A Fake Antivirus? Overview And How To Spot Them

5 Ways To Identify Phishing Or Fake Websites

1. Review the URL

The first vital issue you should look for in your quest to detect legitimate websites is the website’s website. There are several address bar-based features that you should be looking out for.

To begin with, here is the URL of the website. Legitimate website owners will dearly value the security of their clients and implement measures to ensure this is achieved. The SSL certificate ensures that their clients’ connections and servers remain encrypted and out of reach by cyber criminals.

Review the URL

 On the other hand, fake websites will not mind their data security and will see no need to install an SSL certificate. The question, therefore, is: how do you know whether or not a website has the certificate? The answer to that lies in the URL of the website in question.

If the website’s awebsite’sgins with HTTPS, you can be sure that the website is encrypted. If, on the other hand, the URL of the website starts with HTTP, then you have to be wary. You should note that not all HTTP websites are fake, but most are. 74% of phishing websites use the HTTPS protocol this is according to Research from the Anti-Phishing Working Group (APWG)

Still, on the address bar, you should also check on the availability of a padlock symbol. A secure website will display a small padlock next to the web address. The feature also allows you to find out more details about the website.

You can click on the padlock symbol to learn more about the website. The availability of HTTPS does not guarantee that the website is secure and accurate, but it is a great starting point for detecting a website’s website’s

2. Check the Reviews

Product reviews and product ratings have proved to be valuable tools that support consumer buying decisions.

The reviews and ratings are also of great essence to the eCommerce stores as they help them build a reputable and trustworthy brand on the online market. Most reliable and legitimate websites will offer textual reviews of quantitative ratings or a blend of the two. 

Check the Reviews

Website reviews are essential information sources for anyone who wants to establish the legitimacy of a website. The reviews are generated by previous clients who have interacted with the websites and know more about the website.

Previous clients who have had a wonderful experience with the website will state that in the reviews. Clients who have had a bad experience while interacting with the website will also state that in the reviews. Such a case should be a warning signal that the website could be fake and not what it says.  You had better stay safe by not interacting with the website if you encounter such reviews. 

It is also worth mentioning that some website owners will manipulate the reviews and customer feedback section so that their website looks legit.

If you are not 100% confident with the reviews, you do no need to share your confidential information with the website. It would help if you also were wary about websites that do not have reviews. There might be a reason as to why the website is hiding the reviews. 

Finally, several popular review websites exist that you can visit to find out about the user experiences, scam warnings, and customer service quality. The websites include:

  • Tripadvisor
  • Trustpilot
  • Review center

READ ALSO: How To Secure Your Magento Website

3. Check Content-Type

Check Content-Type

Paying keen attention to how the website content is written could help you detect fake websites. Every computer has a simple dictionary that will help the content creator develop grammatically correct and spelling free content.

Additionally, every web browser is built with a spell checker tool; this leaves a website owner without an excuse for creating poorly written content. The presence of errors in content should raise eyebrows. It could be that the content was hastily written with the sole intent of stealing money from unsuspecting website visitors. 

If a website has grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and broken English, there is a high chance that the website could be fake. No reputable website will ever post poorly written content.

A legitimate website will invest heavily in content creation. I advise you not to share your information with a website that has poorly written content. It could be a fake one. 

4. Use Online Phishing Scanners

Use Online Phishing Scanners

There are various phishing detection tools that you can use to detect fake websites. The tools will allow you to scan a website and determine if the website and its content are genuine.

No single tool has been able to give a definitive answer. Therefore, using multiple tools to build a picture is essential. The tools are explained below.

  • The AVG Threat Labs– The tool allows you to type in the URL of the website you want to visit. You will then get an instant appraisal of the website’s security. The tool will detect any malware and viruses and report them to you. The presence of malware and viruses is enough to signal that the website could be fake or compromised, so you should stay away from it. 
  • IsItHacked– This tool will scan a website to detect any possibility that the website might be a phishing threat. It checks the link cloaking, codes, and dubious link formatting. It is, hence, a great tool that you can use to detect fake websites.
  • MXToolbox– This tool checks various blacklists to identify if a website is in any of them. If the website you are about to visit appears here, there is a high chance that the website has been reported as a phishing or scam website. The best thing to do is to avoid visiting the website. 
  • PhishTank- This website contains all the crowdsourced files from the compromised websites on the internet. It also includes a list of websites set up to scam and steal information from unsuspecting victims. Once you have submitted a website you wish to verify, you can track the website through a PhishTank account. 

5. Check the Terms and Conditions of the Website

Check the Terms and Condition of the Website

Most genuine websites will have real terms and conditions. For instance, a legitimate eCommerce website will have a generous refund policy. If a website offers products, yet you cannot find its terms and conditions section, it is possible that the website cannot be trusted.

If the eCommerce store explicitly excludes any possibility of a product refund, then you better not engage with such a website. You should also check the warranties for the commodities sold by the merchant. If no warranties are provided, then there is a chance that the website is selling counterfeit products. 

Conclusion

The number of fake and phishing websites has skyrocketed, especially recently. The overreliance on the internet to conduct life’s actilactivities significant population worldwide has contributed a big deal to this rot.

Scammers are taking advantage of the increased number of internet users and creating a fake website to scam unsuspecting users. Internet users and website visitors have to be extra vigilant now.

They should know how to detect counterfeit websites and stay safe from phishing attack. This article explains five essential tips for website visitors to identify fake or phishing websites. The knowledge will help you stay safe from phishing scams.

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Top 5 DDoS Attack Challenges For Telecom Companies

Gina Lynch
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Top 5 DDoS Attack Challenges For Telecom Companies

This post will expose the top 5 DDoS attack challenges for Telecom companies.

Today’s world runs on the Internet. From traffic control systems to shopping, banking, transaction processing, and communication — without the worldwide web, many activities we take for granted would be impossible, and many vital services would fail.

Similarly to a cellular network or radio, the Internet is a communication protocol used by global communication companies to serve corporate and private consumers. Without them, the internet would stop working. These companies are prime targets for attacks these days.  

The DDoS Threat

The DDoS Threat

DDoS or Distributed Denial of Service, is a cyber-attack where the ill-wisher overloads the network with bot traffic and renders online resources unavailable to visitors. When a DDoS attack targets a singular website or online service, that resource becomes disabled and appears to visitors as a never-loading webpage.

However, if an attack instead targets a network provider and overloads its defense mechanism, all services that rely on that network become simultaneously unavailable.

Today, the number of attacks is on the rise. In 2020, cybersecurity experts recorded over 10 million DDoS attacks. A 15% increase from the already mind-boggling 8.5 million recorded in 2019. Experts say that in 2021, this number will increase further.

The need for DDoS protection is dire, and not only because of increasing attack volume. In 2019, one cybersecurity research surveyed over 320 telecom companies to assess the readiness of the communication industry to defend against DDoS.

The research revealed that while 85% of respondents recorded a steady or increasing rate of attacks, only 34% evaluated their defenses as adequately or comprehensively effective. Not a good outlook.

READ ALSO: Top 5 Cybersecurity Threats That eCommerce Websites Should Watch Out For

The Challenges

Constantly evolving DDoS attacks are outpacing the defense sector, and many companies have yet to take the threat seriously and invest in robust DDoS protection.

Here are the main DDoS attack challenges that communication — and other — companies face in the battle against DDoS. 

1. Diversity and complexity of attacks

Cybersecurity researchers classify up to 35 different types of DDoS attacks. ICMP (Ping) Flood, SYN Flood, HTTP Flood, Slowloris, and Zero-day DDoS Attacks are just a few examples from a long list. Each requires a tailored defense.

2. The need for manual prevention

Not all attacks can be mitigated on autopilot. Sometimes, trained professionals are required to intervene. However, many companies today lack the necessary in-house expertise. For example, 60% of companies in Britain surveyed by the CSO reported understuffed cyber-security departments.

3. Lack of actionable intelligence

The intelligence, research, and analytics in cybersecurity is a sector that is yet to mature fully. As of today, experts note that intelligence, particularly on DDoS attacks, is scattered and disconnected from practical prevention solutions.

Worse yet, much false or contradicting information floats around on the internet, further complicating prevention.

4. Cost prohibitive defenses

While most effective when given lots of free bandwidth, on-site DDoS mitigation solutions prove to be too costly for many companies due to the sheer server computing power required.

As a result, companies that don’t invest in on-site protection nor seek out a robust cloud-based alternative remain under-prepared to mitigate larger attacks. 

5. Lack of granular control for agile responses

The combination of the above challenges leads to the lack of readiness to quickly adapt and respond to constantly evolving and changing DDoS attacks.

READ ALSO: Best VPN for Gaming You Should Consider

How To Get Effective Protection Against Anonymous DDoS Attack

Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attacks, particularly those launched by anonymous groups, can cripple your online presence and inflict significant damage. Here’s a comprehensive guide on safeguarding your system against such attacks:

Understanding the Threat

Anonymous DDoS attacks often involve overwhelming your system with massive amounts of traffic from various sources, making it unavailable to legitimate users. These attacks can target websites, online services, or even entire networks.

Defense Strategies

  • Strengthen Your Infrastructure: Invest in a robust and scalable server infrastructure that can handle high traffic volumes. Consider cloud-based solutions offering built-in DDoS mitigation features.
  • Security Services: Partner with a reputable security service provider with expertise in DDoS mitigation. These providers offer real-time traffic monitoring, filtering, and rerouting capabilities to neutralize DDoS attacks.
  • Traffic Filtering: Implement robust traffic filtering mechanisms to identify and block suspicious incoming traffic patterns.
  • Rate Limiting: Set limits on the number of requests a single IP address can send within a specific timeframe. This can help prevent a single source from overwhelming your system.
  • Web Application Firewalls (WAFs): Deploy a WAF to filter incoming traffic and block malicious requests targeting vulnerabilities in your web applications.
  • Backups and Redundancy: Maintain regular backups of your data and implement redundancy measures for critical systems. This ensures minimal disruption in case of an attack. Use an AntivirusWithVPN solution.

Additional Considerations:

  • Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated on the latest DDoS attack trends and mitigation strategies.
  • Incident Response Plan: Develop a comprehensive incident response plan outlining steps to take if a DDoS attack occurs. This plan should include communication protocols, team roles, and recovery procedures.
  • Vulnerability Management: Regularly scan your systems for vulnerabilities and patch them promptly. Unpatched vulnerabilities can serve as entry points for DDoS attacks.
  • Law Enforcement: If you suspect a targeted DDoS attack, consider reporting it to law enforcement agencies for investigation.

Conclusion: Beyond Anonymous Attacks

While these strategies address anonymous DDoS attacks specifically, they also provide a strong foundation for overall security against various cyber threats.

Adopting a multi-layered approach can significantly enhance your system’s resilience against a wide range of malicious activities.

Note: This was initially published in March 2021, but has been updated for freshness and accuracy.

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How Online Gambling Sites Use Technology To Ensure Player Security

Marie Beaujolie | ✔️Fact-checked by: Daniel Segun
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How Online Gambling Sites Use Technology To Ensure Player Security

This post will show how online gambling sites use technology to ensure player security.

More than 2,800 online casinos are operating across the world. This makes the industry extremely competitive. It also means that it’s a prime target for cyber-attacks. This is a major concern for players, so casinos that want to lead the way must pay close attention to the security of their operations.

As confirmed in an in-house data analysis made by cybersecurity experts, players look for security when choosing a casino.

With this in mind, let’s take a closer look at how serious the security threat is and how online casino brands are using technology to reduce the risks. 

READ ALSO: Web Security Guide: Keeping Your Website Safe

How Big Is The Security Risk To Online Casinos?

How Big Is The Security Risk To Online Casinos?

As many as 30,000 websites are hacked every day, across the globe. So, it’s clear that cyber-security is a major issue across all industries. This is no different for online casinos, especially given the growing number of these sites online.

This was highlighted earlier this year when ZDNet reported the news of Chinese hackers targeting betting sites in Southeast Asia.

The group began its activities in the summer of 2019 and interfered with the security of several websites in the industry.

In addition to the activities in Southeast Asia, there were rumors that the hackers were also active in Europe and the Middle East. This is just one example of how big the threat is. For this reason, online casinos are embracing technology to remain secure.

READ ALSO: Top 5 Cybersecurity Breaches In Online Gambling Industry

The Technology Used To Keep Online Casinos Secure

Given the threat from cyber-criminals, it’s not surprising that online casinos are using technology to help them keep their websites secure. Let’s look at how three types of technology are being used.

1. Blockchain technology

Casinos were originally slow to use blockchain technology in their operations. However, since the retail industry started to embrace technology, online gambling sites have begun to follow suit.

Once the blockchain has been created, it cannot be changed using a string of numbers. This helps to protect it against hackers. Overall, blockchain’s decentralized and transparent nature makes it more difficult for a casino’s security to be compromised.

2. Cloudflare

The content delivery network (CDN) Cloudflare does not wish to disclose which online casino companies are using their platform, but we know, based on a /cdn-cgi/trace/, that online casinos commonly use Cloudflare. One of the main reasons for this is the security and performance services it provides.

This includes protection from distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks and the provision of a web application firewall (WAF). The security provision also includes IP Access Rules and Zone Lockdown. Having all these measures available in one place is a valuable benefit to online gambling sites that want to protect player security.

ALSO READ: 6 Best Website Security Platforms [Hacker-Proof LIST]

The Technology Used To Keep Online Casinos Secure

3. 128 and 256-bit encryption

These encryption methods turn players’ personal and financial information into strings of unbreakable code. This provides an extra level of security and is the same encryption that financial institutions use. Casino sites with encryption have https at the start of their website name.

READ ALSO: Do Casinos Need Cyber Security?

Keeping it Safe While You Play: Online Gambling Security FAQs

Online gambling can be exciting, but security is paramount. Here are some FAQs to shed light on how technology safeguards players in the online gambling world:

How secure are online casino games?

Keeping it Safe While You Play: Online Gambling Security FAQs

Reputable online gambling sites use various technologies to ensure game fairness and security:

  • Random Number Generators (RNGs): These are algorithms that produce unpredictable results, mimicking the randomness of physical games (dice rolls, card shuffles). Independent auditors regularly test RNGs to ensure fairness.
  • Encryption: Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) encryption scrambles data transmitted between your device and the casino server. This protects your sensitive information like login credentials and financial transactions.

How do online casinos prevent cheating?

Online casinos employ several measures to deter cheating:

  • Account verification: Most sites require ID verification to help prevent underage gambling and money laundering.
  • Game monitoring: Sophisticated software can detect suspicious betting patterns that might indicate cheating.
  • Security protocols: Firewalls and intrusion detection systems safeguard the casino’s servers from unauthorized access.

READ ALSO: Cybersecurity Tips For Gambling

How do I know if an online gambling site is secure?

Look for these signs of a secure online gambling site:

  • Licensing: The casino should be licensed by a reputable gambling authority.
  • HTTPS: The website URL should begin with “HTTPS” indicating a secure connection with encryption.
  • Third-party audits: Look for information about independent audits of the casino’s RNGs and payout percentages.
  • Positive player reviews: Research online reviews from other players to gauge the casino’s reputation.

What are the most secure payment methods when gambling online?

Here are some generally secure payment options for online gambling:

  • E-wallets: Services like PayPal or Skrill offer an extra layer of security as you don’t share your financial information directly with the casino.
  • Credit cards: Many reputable online casinos use secure payment gateways that encrypt your credit card details. However, be mindful of potential credit card fraud and use cards with good security features.

READ ALSO: Top 5 Ways Online Casinos Secure Their Customer Information

How are online payments secure?

Many online gambling sites utilize secure payment processors that adhere to industry standards like PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard). This helps protect your financial information during transactions.

A Final Word

As the online casino industry continues to grow, so will the number of cyber-criminals who want to attack related sites.

READ ALSO: Web Security Guide

This means that casinos will continue to be vigilant and use the latest technology to protect themselves and their players against the threat. Check out the 4 Benefits Of Mobile Casinos.

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