Malware is malicious software aimed to cause harm and exploit a device or network. This includes viruses, ransomware, spyware, trojans, and adware.

Attackers deploy malware for various reasons, such as extortion or espionage. Malware can collect sensitive data such as bank details, health records, and other personally identifiable information.

They achieve this by tricking a target into providing sensitive details or gaining control over computer networks to launch DDoS attacks.

Malware can infect your network via different pathways. For example. phishing emails with links or attachments, malicious advertisements, infected USB sticks, illegitimate software, and SMS messages.

What are the signs of malware?

Is your computer running slower than usual? Or does your browser redirect to websites you didn’t intend to visit? These are common signs of malware. In addition, sometimes you may observe computers shutting down unexpectedly and frequent pop-up warnings that you have a virus.

Don’t delay in taking action. The consequences of malware range from damage to company networks, high repair costs, falling foul of state regulations resulting in fines, and negatively affecting your brand reputation.

So, here are some top tips on how to protect your business from malware:

1) Keep Your System Updated

Ensure all software and hardware are running the latest version. Hackers are likely to find vulnerabilities in older versions of software. Mobile devices should also have the latest app update.

2) Train Staff On Basic Protocols

Human errors contribute to many data breaches, so ensure staff are well informed of cyber security risks.

Help them to understand what illegitimate emails look like and to avoid clicking unknown links and opening attachments. While browsing, never click on pop-ups, and limit the number of unnecessary apps on company phones.

Weak passwords still account for some of the main reasons for security breaches. So, encourage staff to use strong passwords to make it difficult for hackers who use brute force techniques.

3) Use Cloud Based Services

Cloud-based services reduce reliance on complex IT setups and help strengthen network security.

When using a managed cloud-based IT network, all applications, email accounts, and data storage are held within a secure environment. Data is encrypted, and you can restrict access to authorized staff to prevent data from getting into the wrong hands. You can also benefit from real-time network monitoring by AI-driven tools that scan for vulnerabilities and unusual activity. These are often capable of spotting faults quicker than a human analyst.

Consider using a dedicated cloud-based DNS server as they offer more robust defenses against DDoS attacks. You’ll also benefit from faster speeds and avoid network crashes as DNS providers integrate load-balancing to ease the intensity that high internet traffic causes.

4) Implement A Mobile Device Management (MDM) Solution

If you have a Bring Your Own Device (BOYD) policy or require staff to use devices remotely, a Mobile Device Management (MDM) system is a great way to improve security.

MDM tools allow companies to monitor and control certain aspects of mobile devices, tablets, and laptops. For example, companies can remotely manage apps, update operating systems, and view location and usage data. This will help ensure that employees remain compliant with BYOD policies and avoid any slip-ups with data regulators.

5) Perform Regular Network Checks and Stay Informed

Purchasing a professional anti-virus and anti-malware to scan individual computers and mobile devices is a simple but effective way to prevent and detect malware in addition to other methods.

Furthermore, staying informed and building your understanding of cybersecurity practices will help you stay ahead of the curve. Technology is developing rapidly, so you should also keep your knowledge up-to-date, and not just your IT network.

Following these tips will strengthen your cyber-security practices. No matter what your budget, there are affordable solutions to help protect sensitive data and avoid becoming a victim of a malware attack.