Are you someone who thinks that cybersecurity is just a buzzword used by IT professionals to scare people? Well, think again! The world of cyber threats and attacks is very real, and the consequences can be both devastating and shocking. In this blog post, we have compiled seven surprising facts about cybersecurity that will make you sit up and take notice. From the alarming increase in cybercrime to the innovative ways hackers are finding their way into your devices – get ready to be shocked! Stick around as we delve deep into the world of cybersecurity to uncover some truths that may change your perspective on online security forever.
There is a Hacker Attack Every 39 Seconds
Cybersecurity is a hot topic these days, with companies spending billions of dollars to protect themselves from cyberattacks. However, many people may not realize just how regularly cyberattacks occur. In fact, according to the Cybersecurity Alliance, there is a hacker attack every 39 seconds.
This statistic is concerning because it means that even large companies and governments are not immune to cyberattack. In fact, many large corporations have been successfully hacked over the years. This includes Sony Pictures Entertainment, Target Corporation, and Home Depot.
One reason why cyberattacks are so common is because they are relatively easy to carry out. All you need is access to a computer or network and some knowledge of how to use the internet. Additionally, hacking attacks are often carried out in an attempt to gain financial benefits or cause damage to the target organization.
However, despite the prevalence of cyberattacks, there are things that organizations can do to protect themselves. For example, they can install strong security measures such as firewalls and antivirus software. Additionally, they can educate their employees about cybersecurity threats and how to deal with them if they encounter them.
Almost Half of Cyber-Attacks Target Small Businesses
Almost half of cyber-attacks target small businesses, according to a recent study by the Ponemon Institute. The report finds that small businesses are more likely than larger organizations to lack formal cybersecurity policies and procedures, and are also more likely to have fewer resources available to protect themselves from cyber-attacks.
Small businesses are also more susceptible to attacks because they often lack the staff or expertise to detect and respond to online threats, and they may be less able to afford the costs of defending themselves. Cybersecurity experts recommend that small businesses develop stringent cybersecurity policies and procedures, appoint a qualified security officer, and make sure their systems are up-to-date with the latest security patches.
The Average Cost of a Data Breach is Growing Rapidly
The average cost of a data breach is growing rapidly, and organizations are struggling to keep up. According to the Ponemon Institute’s 2016 Cost of Data Breach Study, the average cost of a data breach has increased by 22% over the past two years. The study found that the median cost of an organization’s data breach was $5.1 million, and the top 10 most costly breaches were all above $7 million.
One reason for this increase in costs is that organizations are now dealing with two types of data breaches: organized and unorganized. Unorganized breaches are when criminalsgain access to personal information such as Social Security numbers or credit card numbers without obtaining authorization from users. Organized breaches are when criminals break into systems and steal confidential information, such as customer records or payment card numbers.
The Cost of Data Breach Study also found that companies are struggling to keep up with the increasing costs of data breaches. The report found that 43% of organizations conduct fewer investigations than they did in 2013, and 45% do not have a formal process in place for detecting and responding to data breaches. These findings suggest that many organizations do not have a clear understanding of how much their data breaches costs them, or how best to prevent them from happening in the first place.
Human Error is Responsible for Nearly 95% of Data Breaches
Cybersecurity is a top priority for businesses of all sizes, but many people may not realize that human error is responsible for nearly 95% of data breaches. According to the Identity Theft Resource Center, a data breach can occur when someone obtains access to personal information—such as your name, address, and credit card numbers—that was improperly stored by a business.
There are many different types of data breaches, and each one can have serious consequences for the individuals involved. For example, financial data breaches can lead to identity theft and fraud, while social security numbers and other personal information can be used to commit crimes such as identity theft or fraud.
It’s important to take steps to protect yourself from data breaches, no matter how unlikely they may seem. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:
1. Monitor your computer activity regularly. Make sure you know what software is running on your computer and what websites you’re visiting. This will help you identify potential vulnerabilities in your system and protect yourself from cyberattacks.
2. Keep up with regular updates and security patches. Updating your software and installing security patches can help prevent attacks from happening in the first place.
3. Use strong passwords and keep them confidential. Don’t share your passwords with anyone, especially not staff members who have access to your computer systems. Use unique passwords for every website and account you use, and make sure those passwords are difficult to guess — don’t use easily
Companies Take an Average of Six Months to Detect a Data Breach
Cybersecurity is a top priority for companies of all sizes. Unfortunately, many breaches go undetected for months or even years. In fact, according to a recent study by the Ponemon Institute, companies take an average of six months to detect a data breach.
This delay can have serious consequences. For example, if a company discovers a data breach in late March, it will likely be too late to prevent the theft of irreplaceable customer information. Furthermore, if the breach is not detected until early September, the company may suffer reputational damage and lost business as customers switch to competitors.
To increase the likelihood that data breaches will be detected quickly, organizations should implement effective cyber security measures such as robust intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS/IPS) and continuous monitoring tools. Additionally, they should establish clear procedures and protocols for reporting potential incidents as soon as possible.
The Majority of Organizations Do Not Have a Cyber Security Response Plan
Cybersecurity is one of the most important aspects of business today. However, many organizations do not have a cyber security response plan in place. In fact, according to a recent study from Ponemon Institute, only 43% of organizations have a formal cyber security response plan. This means that a majority of organizations are not prepared in case of a cyber attack.
One reason why many organizations do not have a response plan is because they are unaware of the importance of cybersecurity. Cybersecurity is not just about protecting your computer systems; it is also about protecting your data and intellectual property. If you are not proactive in securing your data, an attacker will likely be able to steal it or use it to blackmail you.
The fact that so many organizations do not have a response plan shows that there is still work to be done in this area. It is important for businesses to understand the cyber threats they face and develop plans to protect themselves.
It is Estimated That There Are Over 200 Billion Connected Devices Right Now
It is estimated that there are over 200 billion connected devices right now. Cybersecurity is a growing concern for businesses and individuals alike, as cybercrime increasingly becomes a serious issue. Here are some shocking facts about cybersecurity that will shock you:
• Cybersecurity threats are growing more sophisticated and frequent: According to the 2018 Symantec report “Cyber Threat Evolution,” malicious actors are becoming more creative and strategic in their attacks, seeking out new ways to infiltrate systems and steal data. In addition, they are also increasing their use of ransomware, which can cause significant financial damage.
• Businesses must take active measures to protect themselves: One of the best ways to protect yourself from cyberattacks is to make sure your infrastructure is up-to-date and well protected against attack. You also need to adopt effective security practices like robust firewall protection and password management techniques.
• Consumers are also crucial partners in cybersecurity: Consumers need to be aware of the pitfalls of online security and take steps to protect themselves by using strong passwords, updating software regularly, and not clicking on links in unsolicited emails.
