Network security and cyber threats to be aware of in 2023

Cybersecurity seems to be the buzzword of the century, and by this point, there are few who do not know what it means. From content filtering that protects school children online to high-security firewalls that keep your employee’s data secure, protecting your telecoms infrastructure and all-around network security is essential.

As our technology becomes more advanced, so do the tricks that hackers and cybercriminals use to access your company’s data. When planning for the next year, keeping up with new cybersecurity threats should become a significant part of your business plan. The ongoing geopolitical storm combined with the advancing digital regulations leaves your business vulnerable to classical cyber threats and unpredictable risks.

Going into 2023, developing a plan which protects your digital landscape and phone systems is to be at the top of your business plan. To get on top of your network security, familiarising yourself with the cyber threats of the not-so-distant future is best.

1) Attacks against mobile devices

It won’t be a shock to see phone system and mobile threats at the top of our list. In fact, over 60% of all network security crimes, password theft and phishing to name a few, occur on mobile devices. Throughout 2022, mobile malware cyberattacks have risen by 500%, with Android devices being common targets, and it seems that this may continue throughout 2023.

While incredibly handy and undeniably essential to modern-day business, smartphones have one blinding flaw: they come with us everywhere we go. This means that all of our essential day-to-day apps come with us too, apps such as work email, banking, and communication. Combined in a single device, a business smartphone is a hacker’s paradise.

To protect your and your employees’ business mobiles, invest in a fully managed Enterprise Mobility solution. With encryption services, business and personal data separation and screen lock enforcement, business owners can now minimise mobile risks and protect company data.

2) Ransomware

Ransomware: Many have heard of it but how many actually know what it is? Often used by cybercriminals to break into your digital space and then lock you out of it, ransomware can often lead to enormous personal, professional, and financial loss.

Reports suggest that cybercriminals spend an average of 23 days in your company’s digital network before taking any action. Over this time, they will spend it learning about your network’s functionality, processes, and user permissions.

After breaking into your company’s digital network, a ransomware criminal will either begin accessing data within your network or sell the network access to another cybercriminal. Either way, it is unwanted eyes browsing over your business data.

By utilising advanced antivirus software – combined with year-round IT support – you are better equipped to defend against today’s cyber threats and network security hackers.

3) VoIP Phishing

Phishing has been plaguing homes and businesses for years. Undeniably, software can take your network security to higher levels, modern-day cybersecurity does require a level of personal caution. While search engines, modern phone systems and virtual defences work hard to keep us safe from these scammers, Google registered more than 2 million phishing sites in 2021. To help them in this fight, we must be vigilant.

During a typical vishing (VoIP phishing) phone call, a scammer will call on numbers that appear similar to those of legitimate organisations – like HMRC or local councils – and implement social engineering to force you to share confidential information and even financial details.

Following GDPR and business best practices can help you avoid making these easily made mistakes. A well-trained IT support team will be able to work with your HR department to ensure that sound phone system habits are taught.

Secure your network and phone systems in 2023

Your business’ network may be a high-value target for bad actors, but there are a lot of different cybersecurity options available for you to choose from. A proactive and preventive approach is the best way to protect your business and plan for cybersecurity in 2023.

To learn more about what tools and services you can use to increase your infrastructure’s defences, improve your network security, and gain top-level IT support, speak to one of our experts today.