Cybercrime In 2019 – Are You Keeping Up?

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Cybercrime In 2019

Did you know that the global cybercrime industry will cause up to $6 trillion in damages in just a few years.

That may seem like an impossibly big number, but it makes sense when you consider how often cybercrime attacks occur, and how much damage they cause…

iPhones Are Putting Users At Risk

In August, Google published research showing that an iPhone-based cyber-attack has been going on for the past two years at least. The largest iPhone attack in history, this long-term cybercrime effort has been infecting iOS users with malware that steals their private data, including:

  • Passwords
  • Encrypted messages
  • Locations
  • Contacts

Ransomware Continues To Spread

In May, the city of Baltimore was hit with ransomware that made their server’s inaccessible. They refused to pay the ransom, which kept their systems offline for weeks – in the meantime, they attempted to “rebuild certain systems”, according to Mayor Jack Young.

Baltimore joins the growing number of municipalities hit by ransomware this year – all of which, after the attack, invest considerable resources in investigating the source of the incident.

22 different organizations in Texas, many of which are local government agencies, were just infected with ransomware in August as well.

How To Protect Yourself Against 2019’s Cybercrime Threats

One of the best ways to protect against cybercrime threats is to make your staff an effective part of your defense. Train your staff to ask themselves these key questions before opening an email:

  • Do I know the sender of this email?
  • Does it make sense that it was sent to me?
  • Can I verify that the attached link or PDF is safe?
  • Does the email threaten to close my accounts or cancel my cards if I don’t provide information?
  • Is this email really from someone I trust or does it just look like someone I trust? What can I do to verify?
  • Does anything seem “off” about this email, its contents or sender?

Work With The Experts From Elevate Services Group

When you’re not sure if you have the skills or knowledge to get the job done, what can you do? Consult with cybersecurity professionals, like those at Elevate Services Group, who will:

  • Perform vulnerability testing as per industry standards to ensure you aren’t dealing with overlooked cybersecurity weaknesses.
  • Help you plan and achieve a secure environment to work in.
  • Provide ongoing service and support for any security-related concerns you may have.

In honor of Cyber Security Awareness Month, Elevate Services Group is offering a free cybersecurity consultation – contact kyle@elevateservicesgroup.com to claim yours.

Like this article? Check out the following blogs to learn more:

The New Ways Cybercriminals Pose a Threat to Organizations

Are You Keeping Up With FINRA’s Cybersecurity Best Practices?

Using Managed IT Services to Save You Money