The Top 5 Threats to Information Security in 2021: Are You Prepared?
Introduction
The advancement of technology has brought about a great deal of convenience to our lives, but it also poses a significant threat to our privacy and security. As cyberattacks continue to evolve, it’s important to understand the top threats to information security in 2021 and how to protect yourself and your business against them.
Threat #1: Phishing Attacks
Phishing has been a popular cyberattack for years and it continues to remain a significant threat in 2021. The attackers create emails that resemble legitimate ones and tricks the user into revealing sensitive information. Common examples of phishing attacks include emails that contain malicious links or attachments and messages that impersonate a trusted individual or company. According to a recent report by Verizon, 22% of data breaches in 2020 involved phishing attacks.
Threat #2: Ransomware Attacks
Ransomware attacks have become an increasingly popular form of cyberattack in recent years. In this type of attack, the attacker encrypts the victim’s files, rendering them inaccessible, and demands payment in exchange for the decryption key. Ransomware attacks can cause significant financial loss and damage to a company’s reputation.
Threat #3: IoT Attacks
The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the network of physical devices such as smart home appliances, wearable devices, and industrial equipment that are connected to the internet. However, as these devices become more prevalent, they also become more vulnerable to cyberattacks. IoT attacks can lead to data breaches, theft of personal information, and even physical harm if the targeted device is in a critical system.
Threat #4: Insider Threats
Insider threats are those caused by individuals with authorized access to an organization’s system. These individuals may intentionally or unintentionally cause harm, either by stealing sensitive information, or by damaging or compromising the system. Insider threats can be difficult to detect, making them a significant threat to information security in 2021.
Threat #5: Cloud-based Attacks
More and more companies are moving their data and applications to the cloud, making it a target for cybercriminals. Cloud-based attacks can take many forms, including exploiting vulnerabilities in cloud-based services, stealing credentials, and launching distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks. As cloud computing continues to grow in popularity, so does the need for strong cloud security measures.
Conclusion
As technology becomes more advanced, so do the tactics of cybercriminals. It’s essential to stay informed about the latest threats to information security and take proactive measures to protect our sensitive information. Some steps you can take to protect yourself include investing in robust security solutions, regularly backing up your data, and educating yourself and your employees about common cybersecurity threats. By staying vigilant and taking preventative measures, you can stay safe in the digital world.
