Hacker attacks on companies: Increase the security of your systems
In recent years, Swiss companies have been increasingly affected by hacker attacks, often with considerable damage. Hundreds of cybercrime incidents are reported weekly to the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). With new technological developments, hacking tools and methods are also becoming more current and sophisticated. Learn what you can do to protect your business from hacking attacks.
What does hacking mean?
Hacker attacks usually refer to malicious activities that attempt to compromise digital devices, computer systems, personal accounts or entire networks.
Usually, the hacker gains access to the affected device by exploiting a bug in the software or using stolen access data.
The reasons for the act can vary. The most common are financial gain, challenge or fun.
Preventive IT protection against cybercrime
Measures for more security for your systems
Are passwords alone sufficient?
Multiple authentication for stronger protection
While using passwords is better than no protection at all, it is far from good enough. The reason is simple: strong passwords are hard to remember, especially if you have many online accounts. Simple passwords and password recycling not only make it easy for users, but also for hackers. It is therefore important to protect online accounts with additional authentication methods.
What are the risks of hacker attacks?
Possible consequences of data theft for companies
Hacker attacks pose an enormous threat to companies. Besides financial damage, theft of business information can mean the loss of a competitive advantage. Moreover, if protected information of third parties (customers, suppliers, etc.) is stolen, the company can also face legal consequences. Long-term consequences such as damage to reputation and lost trust are difficult to assess.
Internet crime in figures
Statistics on hacker attacks
Increase in cyber attacks and data breaches in 2021 compared to 2020
of large companies have more than 500 employees who have never changed their passwords
of companies are hacked by compromising access data (mainly due to the use of simple passwords)
of corporate networks are vulnerable to hacker attacks
Tips to protect your business from hacker attacks
Keep your software systems up-to-date!
Outdated software and operating systems have many more vulnerabilities and are therefore easier to hack. Ongoing updating of all software systems is therefore the number one rule for protection against hackers.
Use two-factor authentication.
With two-factor authentication, another code must be entered in addition to the password to log in. This code is sent to the user's mobile phone number or email. In this way, the account remains protected even if the password falls into the wrong hands.
Train your employees on the dangers of hacker attacks.
A lack of awareness of IT security among employees is one of the greatest dangers for companies. Through training, you can sensitise your employees to the topic and thus reduce the risk.
Pay attention to suspicious emails.
A great many hacker attacks take place via e-mail. If an e-mail seems suspicious, do not click on any attachments or links and do not reply to the e-mail. If you cannot assess the authenticity of an e-mail, contact the provider from whom the message appears to originate.
Secure your company's data.
Regular backups reduce potential damage from hacker attacks. Store the backups twice at different locations.
Insight into your digital security
Would you like to protect your software and your company against hacker attacks?
Book a no-obligation 30-minute workshop with our experts.
Call us on +41 43 255 68 68 or write us a message.