Data breaches can be detrimental to a business. When private data is compromised, a company’s employees, customers, and profit margin are all at risk. Plus, there are countless types of data breaches, which makes it hard for companies to know how to protect themselves. In this article, we’ll go over 5 of the most common types of data breaches so you can know where to focus your efforts. We’ll also give you advice for keeping your data safe.
1- Ransomware
Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts your data. It is installed on your computer by a person or group who is looking to steal money. They use the encryption to make your computer unusable, agreeing to decrypt the system only after a ransom is paid.
2- Computer Viruses
Like ransomware, computer viruses are a type of malware that can make your computer unusable. Viruses are not only annoying to deal with. They can also cause serious security problems by stealing your personal information from the computer.
3- Phishing
Phishing is one of the most common ways to infect a computer with malware. A phishing scheme is when someone sends an email or other digital message, pretending to be from a legitimate company. The message contains a link, download, or other type of file. When opened, these “files” actually infect the computer and steal valuable information.
4- Stolen Info
Not all data breaches are high-tech. Sometimes, they are as simple as a person going through your computer or phone and writing down your personal information. Since we store so much of our lives digitally, this is now easier to do than ever before.
5- Password Guessing
This is another very simple (but very effective!) way to steal data. If you don’t use a secure password, it is easy for criminals to log into your accounts and see your personal information. Of course, this is an even bigger problem if you use the same password across all of your different platforms.
How to Keep Your Data Safe,
Data breaches can happen to anyone. Therefore, we recommend working with an IT professional to protect yourself. Start by booking a consultation, then work with your IT analysis to create a plan that specifically targets your company’s biggest threats. To book an IT consultation today, call Exordium Networks at (972) 573-1180.