Nearly every day, we’re bombarded with stories about devastating data breaches or emerging cyber threats like artificial intelligence-fueled attacks. Amidst the onslaught of reports, we begin to wonder how often these incidents happen. Feeling overwhelmed, we may be tempted to forgo digital precautions and hope for the best. But that can end up putting ourselves — and our data — in harm’s way.
To help ease our anxiety and bolster our defenses, we asked the pros at Sullivan Wright Technologies to flag the five most notorious cybersecurity misconceptions and what we need to know to reduce our risks.
Myth: Cybersecurity doesn’t affect me. Far too often, people mistakenly believe only large corporations are affected by attacks because that’s what’s featured in the news. However, anyone with a computer or internet-connected device can be a target. Just because breaches on individuals and small local businesses are less sensational doesn’t mean they don’t happen.
Myth: There’s nothing I can do to stop a cyberattack. When feeling helpless, it’s vital to remember cyber hygiene can help prevent many, if not most, attacks. We should follow best practices on our work and personal devices, including thinking before we click, updating our software and using strong passwords and multi-factor authentication.
Myth: Using antivirus software and firewalls is enough. Cybercriminals’ methods aren’t static, and protective tools shouldn’t be either. We should take a layered approach to cybersecurity so that if one barrier fails, we have a backup. For companies, this may include tailoring and implementing measures from NIST’s Cybersecurity Framework, with updates made as needed.
Myth: Cybersecurity is an IT-only responsibility. Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. Individuals within a business or organization need to be aware of existing vulnerabilities, risks and current security practices. While IT may provide some support, companies may also consider hiring qualified, experienced security professionals to ensure all risks are covered cost-effectively.
Myth: If others survive cyberattacks, they can’t be that dangerous. The companies that pull through devastating incidents are often massive corporations with large cash reserves. Attacks against individuals and smaller businesses generally happen more frequently. While not as newsworthy, the effects are usually far more painful.
Whether an individual, small business or global corporation, cyberattacks can affect anyone. In the face of these threats, it’s easy to feel like hope is lost, but we can’t afford to let our guard down. By staying the course with cyber hygiene, we can reduce our risk and build our resiliency against breaches and attacks.
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