Technology

Covid-19 and its Impact on Cybersecurity

February 25, 2021

Covid-19 has created a significant shift worldwide, Causing major restrictions, lockdowns, and curfews changing the way we were used to living. Pandemic such as this can be summed up to the advancement of technology which has made businesses move online in weeks creating demand for virtual processes. It is important to note; anytime a function goes digital, it creates a vulnerability of cybersecurity. Most security firms have been forced to adjust to the changing paradigms and find new ways to counter-attack the threats. The pandemic has initiated digital transformation, and we can all agree that we are learning from our experiences. Consider reading about online security to learn more about what other people say on Reviews Bird.

Companies/businesses have allowed their staff to work from home, and this landscape has made organizations build up their cyber resilience and security awareness to their team. The use of a virtual private network is a method used to ensure the right user or device is accessing the resources they are meant to access. The use of containers and Zero trust is useful and helping improve cyber resilience. User behavior is influenced by location. A user in the office will rarely click on suspicious links, but once at home, there is the desire to click any link that pops up on the screen. Attackers have taken advantage of the pandemic, and they are using malicious content to appear like updates or information regarding the pandemic. It is therefore paramount to not click on pop-ups.

Set up strong passwords, preferably two-factor authentication for all remote account users, ensuring all laptops used by the staff are encrypted and have updated anti-virus and firewall software. Providing workers with straightforward guidance on what measures the organization is taking to combat the pandemic, running a helpline that is easily accessible for advice or report of any security threat including potential phishing, and offering employees alternative ways of transferring data instead of the usual USB drives which have the risk of malware. Confirmation of the finance processes is essential as it helps safeguard employees and the entire organization against the increased risk of business email compromise and or fraud. Using a text message or a phone call would be ideal in such a scenario.

Businesses are urged to apply governance, risk, and compliance solutions for improved risk management. These solutions provide a detailed view of the company’s exposure, and they help link the various disciplines. Thus, it is vital to prepare for attacks, especially in these high-risk times. Carrying out frequent cyber crisis exercises help organizations to be fully prepared to respond to cyber-attacks. In conclusion, one should give extra attention to the growing threats during the pandemic. Companies should be proactive by planning ways to prevent threats instead of responding to them when they occur. There is also a need for cyber-attack detection, response and recovery capabilities since the fallout from data privacy breaches or ransomware can be financially devastating. It should also be remembered that financial gain is not the only motive behind cyber-attacks; damaging business reputations is an additional threat.

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