In today's world, where everyone uses a computer or a cellphone connected to the internet, and most of our actions happen online, staying safe while browsing the internet is mandatory. Whether we shop for something, search for something, or talk to someone, relying on a secure network that keeps us away from attackers who might trick us, put us in danger, or even steal our money is essential. Individuals are as endangered as companies since cybernetic attacks target anyone using an internet connection.

Cybersecurity is the branch that protects systems, networks, and programs from digital attacks. It's a vital aspect that any company or person must pay attention to if they want to enjoy a safe and secure internet connection. Staying safe online is essential no matter where you live, as cyber-attacks can happen anywhere. Cybersecurity Northern Virginia companies handle networks, systems, and programs installed on computers or phones in the entire state. Their network support specialists know how to maintain a secure network and have the necessary skills to analyze and resolve problems that might appear while browsing the internet.

Offering Network Support in Cybersecurity

Essential institutions in Northern Virginia, like the state university, rely on network support companies to ensure they are kept safe from digital attacks, data theft, and any other malicious attempt against the integrity of web users. Residents also need to enjoy security while browsing the internet, as in any other region of the country. With so many online frauds occurring lately, cybersecurity companies covering Northern Virginia and its surroundings must provide the strongest security measures and data recovery programs.

Working as a network support technician in the IT department requires skills that allow you to monitor, analyze, and troubleshoot network problems for large companies that rely on a strong and secure network. This job is essential in maintaining the company safe from online fraud and technical issues that might compromise the business or the clients. Technicians handle a computer network's hardware and software components, so they need to have a good understanding of how each element works. Some of the responsibilities include:

• Analyzing attempted security breaches and reporting them
• Identifying and troubleshooting connectivity issues by using diagnostic software and equipment
• Backing up data
• Configuring security settings to make sure only authorized people can access the data and keep strangers away
• Configuring internet connections through routers or similar devices
• Documenting network support activities
• Evaluating network quality
• Offering support for users remotely and in person
• Installing security software

Human errors often cause cyber attacks, such as if someone clicks on a phishing link or fails to follow security protocols. Not updating the security system on time is another way to let cyber attackers inside your system, making the network vulnerable and unstable. Weak passwords and negligence in controlling who can access certain parts of your system can leave sensitive data defenseless against hackers, so you'd better pay attention to these aspects.

Most Common Cybersecurity Issues and How to Prevent Them

Not relying on qualified and experienced network support technicians can seriously affect the integrity of a company, as cyber threats are more and more common by the hour. Anyone using the internet and not ensuring a secure connection risks exposing sensitive data. Therefore, no effort and expense should be spared when configuring your company's security systems. To convince you of the dangers lurking online, here is a list of the most common cybersecurity issues.

Phishing Scams

Phishing is one of the top threats people risk daily when entering a website or submitting their data. Malicious software is sent through emails or messages, asking users to donate money, enter their credit card information, or respond to fake notifications from banks or public institutions. Since most transactions happen online nowadays, we must pay attention to who we trust and only provide information to safe websites.

Be careful who you send your personal data to, and pay attention to the sender of each email, as many attackers use familiar names in their URLs. Ignore spam messages announcing winnings or free shipping and require you to pay a certain amount of money to get a hold of your prize. Scam emails often come from your bosses or coworkers to convince you of their validity. Always confirm the sender is real before responding to any of the emails or messages.

Ransomware-as-a-service

Many companies have been victims of pay-for-use malware, also known as ransomware-as-a-service. This strategy, perfected by experienced scammers, targets large companies with a vast database of clients. By stealing their data, attackers threaten companies to expose private details unless a certain ransom is paid. The costs are enormous, often impossible to cover by small companies, in which case the data is lost and never recovered. However, individuals are as exposed as businesses, considering the security systems are less developed for residential use. Accessing a shady website or clicking on a bait link are sure ways to lose essential data that attackers can request a ransom for to retrieve control. Companies still perfecting their security systems often become targets and victims of attackers who can easily access their systems and sneak malicious software. To avoid this, companies must seriously test their security walls and monitor the effectiveness of their protection software.

Compliance Gaps in Security

The need for more network support and security professionals leads to weakened security measures. With scammers and attackers continuously evolving their tactics, it's mandatory that technicians also stay updated on the most advanced protection means against cyber attacks all over the country, not only in Northern Virginia. To ensure they stay on top of cybernetic attacks, technicians implement penetration testing to monitor the response of their security system during mandatory compliance audits. If they skip this step, security breaches can appear, and companies can remain unprotected. To prevent any security gap, the security team must perform thorough testing.

Broken Access Control

Configuring a security system is not easy, as this procedure requires extended knowledge of keeping intruders away and ensuring the firewalls are impenetrable. Defining permission pathways ensures that users will not have access to information that doesn't concern them. This way, sensitive data is not exposed, and there is no risk of creating breaches of confidentiality.

Through human error or unwanted operations, users inside a company can involuntarily expose important information if the security system isn't perfected regarding user access. Broken access control can be prevented if security technicians thoroughly control who has access to company data by conducting authorization audits. Any leaks or unauthorized information flow must be detected and corrected quickly.

Publication: 28/12/2023 12:43