7 Types of Cyber-attacks to Watch Out for in 2023

The world is ever-evolving, and so is the cyber threat landscape. As technology advances, so do the methods of cybercriminals. As we enter the new year, it’s crucial to plan for it, especially for your resilience in any cyber security attacks. The importance of cyber security has never been greater, and the frequency of assaults and breaches has recently increased. This blog post will look at the 7 types of cyber-attacks to watch out for in 2023.

Introduction to Cybersecurity

As we move closer to the future, the need for cybersecurity becomes ever more critical. Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting networks, systems, and programs from digital attacks. It is also the practice of ensuring data privacy and integrity. Cybersecurity is essential for businesses, organizations, governments, and individuals.

Types of Cyber-attacks

There are many different types of cyber-attacks. These include phishing attacks, malware attacks, man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks, denial of service (DoS) attacks, SQL injection attacks, password attacks, and insider threats.

1. Phishing Attacks

Phishing attacks are one of the most common types of cyber-attacks. In a phishing attack, the attacker sends an email that appears to be from a legitimate source, such as a company or a bank. The email contains a link that, when clicked, takes the user to a malicious website. The website then asks the user to enter personal information, such as username and password.

It is important to be aware of phishing attacks and to be wary of any suspicious emails. It is also essential to ensure that the website being visited is secure and is from a legitimate source.

2. Malware Attacks

Malware is short for malicious software. It is malicious code or software designed to damage or disrupt systems and networks. Malware can be viruses, worms, trojans, spyware, ransomware, and adware.

Malware can be spread through emails, downloads, and websites. One has to be aware of the signs of malware attacks, such as slow computer performance, pop-up ads, and sudden changes in settings. It is also vital to update your anti-virus software regularly and to use a reputable anti-virus program.

3. Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) Attacks

Man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks are a type of cyber-attack in which the attacker intercepts communication between two parties. The attacker can eavesdrop on the communication and, in some cases, even alter the communication.

MITM attacks can be carried out on various networks and systems, including wireless networks, VoIP networks, and email systems. It becomes necessary to use secure networks and encryption when sending sensitive data.

4. Denial of Service (DoS) Attacks

A Denial-of-Service Attack poses a severe risk to businesses. Attackers target systems, servers, or networks, in this case, and bombard them with traffic to drain their bandwidth and resources. The attacker attempts to make a server or network resource unavailable. The attacker does this by flooding the server or network with requests, causing the system to become overwhelmed and unable to respond to legitimate requests.

DoS attacks can be prevented by using secure networks, limiting access to servers and networks, and using firewalls. It is also essential to be aware of the signs of DoS attacks and to respond quickly if any suspicious activity is detected.

5. SQL Injection Attacks

In an SQL injection attack, the attacker attempts to gain access to a database by injecting malicious code into a vulnerable input field. The malicious code is then executed, allowing the attacker to access the database.

SQL injection attacks can be prevented using secure coding practices, properly validating user input, and secure authentication methods. It is also important to regularly update the database and to use intrusion detection systems.

6. Password Attacks

Password attacks are a type of attack in which the attacker attempts to gain access to a system or network by guessing or cracking a user’s password. To decipher your password, the attacker can use a computer program or password-cracking tools like Aircrack, Cain, Abel, John the Ripper, Hashcat, etc.

It is crucial to use strong passwords and to change them regularly. It is also essential to enable two-factor authentication and to use a password manager to store passwords securely.

7. Insider Threat

An insider threat, as the name implies, involves an insider rather than a third party. In this situation, it can be someone who works for the company and is familiar with its operations. The potential damage from insider threats is enormous.

Small organizations are particularly vulnerable to insider threats because their employees frequently have access to sensitive data. There are several causes for this kind of attack, including avarice, malice, and even negligence. Insider threats are tricky because they are difficult to predict.

Cybersecurity Statistics and Trends

In 2020, the global cybersecurity market was valued at over $170 billion, expected to grow in the coming years. According to Cybersecurity Ventures, the global cybersecurity market will be worth over $300 billion by 2024.

In addition to the growth in the cybersecurity market, there has been an increase in cyber-attacks. In 2022, the number of cyber-attacks increased by over 40% compared to 2021.

Cybersecurity Solutions

To protect against cyber-attacks, it is crucial to have a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy in place. This strategy should include employee training, secure networks, regular security updates, and intrusion detection systems.

Partnering with a reliable cybersecurity provider, such as Protected Harbor, is also important. Protected Harbor provides a range of cybersecurity services, including security assessments, vulnerability management, and incident response.

Conclusion

You have learned everything there is to know about cyberattacks from this essay on their several types. You studied the definition of a cyber-attack, the top 7 types, and the techniques to avoid one. It is wise to be knowledgeable about cyberattacks and network security, given the rise in cybercrimes today. Watch this video about cybersecurity threats to learn more about this subject.

If you’re looking for a reliable cybersecurity partner, look no further than Protected Harbor. With their range of cybersecurity services, from penetration testing, cloud security, ransomware protection, and email filtering to threat detection and response, we’ve you covered. Whether you’re an SMB or a large enterprise, we have a solution that works for you.

Have you got any inquiries for us about “Cyber Attacks”? Please get in touch with our security specialist. You’ll hear from one of our experts as soon as they can!

The Top 10 Ransomware Attacks Of 2022

Ransomware attacks rose to an all-time high during the year 2022 as most businesses continued their operations through online mediums. Due to the usage of mainly online platforms, these left businesses open to cybercriminals who were sophisticated in their ransomware attacks. According to statistics, within the first quarter of 2022, there were approximately 236.1 million ransomware attacks around the globe.

Companies in turn have to spend a considerable amount in order to rectify the damages of these attacks. According to Cybersecurity ventures, the cost of ransomware attacks are going to increase to $265 billion by 2031.

All of these stats conclude that ransomware attacks will not be slowing down and will only continue to become more advanced. Below, we will be looking at the top 10 ransomware attacks of 2022 that affected both companies and governments systems.

What is a Ransomware Attack?

Ransomware is a type of malware that cybercriminals use to get access to information. When a system gets infected by ransomware, it blocks any user access and encrypts the systems data. Cybercriminals will then demand a ransom to release the locked data. Such a process is known as a ransomware attack.

Cybercriminals can target any individual or company through this type of attack. The affected person or company usually has two options to try and regain access to their data. The first option is that the victim will either pay the ransom to the cybercriminals, which does not guarantee that the hacker will release the encrypted files. The second option, is the victim needs to make an effort to remove the malware, sometimes through either a third-party IT service provider or their own in-house team, which again, is not always a guarantee in recovering every lost file.

The Top Ransomware Attacks in 2022

According to experts, 2022 was the biggest year for ransomware attacks. Let’s take a look at some of the most significant ones.

1. Bridgestone

In February 2022, Bridgestone, one of the largest tire manufacturers in the world, detected a security breach caused by the LockBit ransomware gang. Despite Bridgestone’s efforts to mitigate the attack, the company had to halt their production for a week due to a network outage in North and Latin America.

On March 15, the perpetrators announced they were going to leak the stolen data if they didn’t get paid their ransom fee. In addition to a security check and reconnection to their network, the company has not provided details about the ransom thus far.

2. Puma

On January 10 of 2022, one of the workers of the popular sportswear brand “Puma,” was informed of a data breach following a ransomware attack on Kronos, one of Puma’s workforce management solutions providers. In December of 2021, Kronos had experienced its first incident. According to reports, hackers stole the personal information of over 6,632 of its employees, including US Social Security Numbers, and encrypted the data.

Neither customer data nor financial information was affected. On January 22, Kronos regained full access to their data. To make up for this incident, Kronos offered Puma employees two years of free Experian IdentityWorks, which includes credit monitoring, identity theft insurance, and identity restoration.

3. Toyota

In February and March of 2022, Cybercriminals unleashed a ransomware attack on three Toyota suppliers. However, a specific attack on Toyota’s supplier, Kojima Industries, forced the company to halt their operations at 14 Japanese plants.

According to reports, the hack caused a 5% drop in the company’s monthly production capacity. Moreover, Denso and Bridgestone, two Toyota suppliers, were also targeted by ransomware within 11 days.

4. Nvidia

In February 2022, cybercriminals targeted the world’s largest semiconductor chip company Nvidia. According to the company, the threat actor leaked employee credentials as well as proprietary information online.

As part of the attack, Lapsus$ claimed they had access to 1TB of company data that would soon be available publicly. In addition to this, the cybercriminals made a ransom demand of $1 Million.

Some media reports stated that parts of Nvidia’s business had to be taken offline for two days due to compromised internal systems. According to the company, however, the attack did not affect its operations.

5. Costa Rica Government

2022 was the first time in history that a country declared a national emergency response to a cyber-attack. In early April, the first ransomware attack struck the nation, bringing the ministry of finance to its knees and affecting the public and private sectors.

Initially, Conti demanded $10 million in ransom from the government, which subsequently increased to $20 million. As a result of another attack on May 31^st, the country’s healthcare system was in disarray which wound up taking Costa Rica’s healthcare systems offline. The Costa Rican social security fund was also affected by this attack which wound up being linked to HIVE.

6. Bernalillo County

On January 5, Bernalillo County, the largest county in New Mexico, became a victim of a ransomware attack, which brought down several government departments and institutions. The Metropolitan Detention Center was also affected as security cameras, and automatic doors fell offline. Government officials had to restrict the movement of inmates, which is a direct violation of laws for inmate confinement.

For this reason, the county had to file an emergency appeal in the federal court against the act due to this malware attack. However, this was an incredible eye-opener regarding how ransomware attacks can affect citizens’ welfare.

7. SpiceJet

In early 2022, Indian Airline SpiceJet fell victim to a ransomware attack. As a result, hundreds of passengers had to wait in different locations for more than 6 hours, greatly affecting the brand’s reputation.

Moreover, it also raised questions about cybersecurity gaps within the aviation industry. The SpiceJet ransomware attack also highlighted the importance of incident response planning, an initiative that could play a vital role in stopping such future cyber-crimes.

8. Shields Health Care Group

In March, Shields Health Care Group (Shields) suffered a security breach that exposed around two million patient details. Due to Shields’ reliance on hospitals and medical centers, these affects have been extensive leaving at least 53 facilities and their patients vulnerable.

Shield’s official website shows that the company became aware of the ransomware attack on March 28, 2022. They immediately hired cybersecurity experts to tackle the situation and examine the damage of the incident. It was then they found out that hackers gained access to the personal information of patients. However, the company claims they haven’t found any evidence of data misuse.

9. Hensoldt

On January 12, 2022, Hensoldt, a global defense contractor, acknowledged that several of its UK subsidiaries had been the target of a ransomware attack. The company provides sensor solutions for defense, aerospace, and security software to organizations like the US Army, US Marine Corps, and US National Guard.

Although the company has not disclosed the security breach details, the ransomware group, Lorenz, claimed credit and listed the ransom as paid. As of now, it is unclear whether Hensoldt paid the ransom or if another threat actor purchased the data.

10. Marriott

In 2014, hackers compromised Marriott guest records. According to an estimate, the personal data of around 340m guests became publicly available. Although this incident wasn’t public until September 2018, it led to a fine of £14.4m from the UK Information Commissioner’s office. In January 2020, a similar incident occurred when hackers accessed 5.2m of guest records.

In June 2022, hackers claimed to have stolen more than 20GB of sensitive data, including guests’ credit card information. Using social engineering, the attackers allegedly tricked an employee at a Marriott property in Maryland into granting them computer access. Despite Marriott’s denial, it plans to contact more than 300 to 400 people about the incident.

Wrap Up

Ransomware attacks have been a part of the computing world since long before most people knew they existed, and they are not going away any time soon. It’s a cheap, effective, and simple technique for hackers that can infiltrate even the most secure networks.

Businesses need to focus on keeping themselves safe by working on their security. In this regard, experts like Protected Harbor can help you. Our team of experts will tailor a solution to meet your company’s needs, keeping your data safe and secure.

With Protected Harbor, you can defend your data against ransomware threats. To increase the safety and security of your business operations, we combine the most recent immutability technology with top-notch storage solutions. Stay one step ahead of cybercriminals by partnering with a provider that offers email security, endpoint detection, network penetration testing, ransomware, and anti-malware mechanisms.

Unsure which solution is best for your company? Contact our team of experts today and let them determine which solution best fits your company’s needs.

Unlock Your Business Potential with Managed IT Services

Managed IT services can be a game changer for businesses of all sizes. Whether a one-person shop or a large enterprise, these can provide you with the resources, tools, and information technology expertise you need to succeed.

For most businesses, they were unheard of several years back. That’s because these services were offered only by the big companies. Fast forward to today, and managed services are now available to everyone thanks to a slew of cloud-based solutions.

The expected value of the global IT Managed Services market is US$ 244670 million in 2022, and it is anticipated to reach US$ 399170 million by 2028, with a CAGR of 8.5% throughout the analysis period.

These cloud platforms offer potent tools which allow even the smallest businesses to get an edge over their competitors. This has led to almost every business owner/CEO, including Managed IT Services in their budgets.

You can handle your IT problems as a business owner. This is true for some businesses, but most large complex companies will be well served by outsourcing their IT service model to a managed service provider (MSP).

This article goes over why managed services for businesses are essential.

What is Managed IT Service?

Managed IT services are the ultimate in business technology support. Whether it’s security, disaster recovery, or network design, managed service providers eliminate the headache of keeping your business up and running.

Outsourcing, managed services, security services, data management, and cloud computing comprise the larger market for IT services. End-user spending on cloud computing is expected to reach nearly 500 billion dollars in the United States in 2022.

Managed service offering is a proactive solution that provides you with around-the-clock hardware and software support for your computer network. This means you’ll never have to worry about being left in the dark when something goes wrong — because a professional team of experts is all taken care of

These services typically include a variety of services, including:

• Help desk support and remote monitoring and management.
• Security monitoring and threat protection.
• Software and hardware installation, configuration, and deployment.
• Telecom expense management services.

Managed service provider msp companies provide their clients with 24/7 monitoring, assistance in identifying and resolving issues before they become problems, backup and recovery plans, and focus on improving other services designed to keep your business running smoothly.

Different Types of Managed IT Services

There are many types of managed IT services available, but here are some of the most common:

Managed Networks and Infrastructure – This service includes monitoring and managing remote servers, desktops, and laptops. These services also include application management support and help desk support.

Managed Security –Managed Security refers to outsourcing security operations and management to a third-party service provider. MSSPs offer a range of security services, including threat detection and response, vulnerability assessments, security monitoring, and incident management. They use specialized security software and tools to monitor and manage the client’s security environment, identify potential security threats and vulnerabilities, and respond to security incidents in real-time.

Managed Support Services – Managed support services provide all the technical expertise needed to keep your systems running smoothly without downtime due to technical issues or problems with software applications such as Microsoft Office 365 Exchange Online and Microsoft Azure Active Directory Cloud Services.

Managed Wireless and Mobile Computing – This type of IT service involves the management of wireless networks, mobile devices, and applications. With these services, companies can have more control over the performance of their employees’ mobile devices by ensuring they are secure and up-to-date with the latest operating systems.

Managed Communication Services – Managed communication services are designed to help companies improve productivity by ensuring that all employees can communicate effectively with one another through email and instant messaging. These services also include other forms of communication, such as video conferencing, web conferencing, and more.

Software as a Service (SaaS) –  Software as a service provides clients with access to applications hosted on the cloud, typically through the internet. This means that users do not have to install or maintain any software on their systems. 

What are the Benefits of Using Managed IT Services?

Managed services are a great way to maintain your IT infrastructure’s security, performance, and reliability. This is especially true if you’re a small business or a startup company with no budget for full-time IT staff.

Of the 451 large businesses surveyed by 451 Research, 45% planned to collaborate with a MSP, and 42% prepared to deploy additional security software. The industry is changing as a result. Managing service contracts have replaced the old break-fix model in 59% of IT services.

Managed IT providers offer several benefits in their service level agreement sla over doing things yourself:

Contractual Terms: A managed service provider often has a contract in place with their clients that outlines the responsibilities of both parties. This helps ensure that everyone is on the same page regarding what they’re expected to do, when they’re expected to do it and how much they’ll be paid for it.

Reliability: An MSP will work hard to avoid any potential issues — from hardware failure to cybersecurity threats — so that you don’t have to worry about them taking down your entire system or causing data loss.

Cost Savings: It can help you save money by reducing spending on technology. Your service provider can take care of all your IT needs, from network management to infrastructure upgrades, so you only pay for what you use. This can save you more of your total cost of ownership.

Reduce IT Spending: These providers offer fixed monthly rates that allow you to budget for your entire year’s expenses upfront and avoid unexpected costs that could hurt your bottom line.

Dependable Service: Instead of wasting time troubleshooting problems yourself or waiting on hold with technical support, let us handle it! Our team will monitor your network 24/7, so you have peace of mind knowing there’s always someone available to help when something goes wrong.

Managed IT Services Provider Inclusion

To qualify for inclusion in the Managed IT support services category, a service provider must offer their clients a range of IT services and support:

• Provide Constant Monitoring of IT-Related Functions: This includes monitoring of the server, applications, and network, as well as security systems.
• Provide On-Demand Support: A MSP should have a team of technical experts that can be deployed whenever an issue arises. This could include a help desk, online chat, or phone support.
• Provide IT Consulting: A good MSP offers advice and guidance on improving your business’s technology infrastructure and processes.

Final Words

The benefits of managed services are clear. By outsourcing their IT management services and maintenance, businesses can free up their internal IT staff to focus on more strategic initiatives and benefit from improved security, compliance, cost savings, and customer service. However, finding the right managed IT services provider for your business is essential. Be sure to look for a provider that has experience working with companies of your size and industry, is reliable and has a good reputation, and offers competitive prices.

If you’re looking for a managed services provider in Rockland County NY or Hudson Valley, Protected Harbor can help. Protected Harbor is one of the top Managed IT Services providers in the US and offered a range of services to meet your business’s IT needs.

With digital and technological techniques that support your company’s objectives, IT specialists at Protected Harbor will assist in transforming your enterprise. Reduce stressful day-to-day IT operations, minimize costly downtime, and improve operational maturity. Gain access to a whole team of IT professionals to help you manage the newest technology and a wealth of knowledge that will accelerate your growth, boost your profitability, and improve your business.

Get a free IT Audit today and unlock your business potential with Protected Harbor.

Why is IT Experience Important for Businesses?

The role of IT in modern business cannot be underestimated. Companies now must pay attention to the importance of information technology (IT). In this role, every business must own and implement IT systems. The failure to innovate means rejecting best practices.

You can’t expect to keep up with the competition if you don’t give your company an edge in technology adoption. The fact should be noticed – with the proper IT solutions. Your organization could succeed entirely.

The annual value of the global information technology (IT), business services, and IT services markets exceeds USD 1 trillion. The Americas area will account for most of the sales in 2021 with 555 billion US dollars. After dropping revenues in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic, the market is predicted to see rising revenues during the following four years. ~Statista

Even If you’re a small business owner, you might know how important technology is but need help understanding it. We’ll tell you what technology can do for your business and why it’s essential.

What is Information Technology in Business?

The term “IT” is often used in today’s business world. This is simply because of the importance of Information Technology in almost all businesses. Information Technology is a broad term that covers a range of topics, including information systems, computer networks, database management, and software applications.

In general, Information Technology is applying computer technology to support business operations. Word processing and spreadsheet software are the most common IT applications; however, many other types are also used in businesses today.

Generally, a wide range of technologies and infrastructure strategies that work in concert shape the IT services sector. The use of technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in business solutions and a rise in the demand for IT security measures like zero trust frameworks are a few of these trends.

Information technology has become the backbone of business because it can help companies do things faster and with less effort. It allows companies to communicate with customers, employees, and suppliers more quickly; it helps companies coordinate operations across multiple locations and time zones; it enables companies to share information in real-time with customers or employees who need it, and it provides access to data that would otherwise be difficult or impossible for a company to collect.

Why is IT Important for Businesses?

The IT department is the backbone of any business. It has a direct impact on the productivity and efficiency of your business.

Simplifying Employee Communication

IT infrastructure enables employees to conduct their work efficiently and effectively. Adequate IT infrastructure can make all the difference between a thriving and a failing business. It also helps in improving employee communication as well as collaboration with each other.

Enhancing Productivity

An efficient IT infrastructure allows you to focus on core competencies and critical activities, which help you in enhancing productivity significantly. You can also focus on innovation and creativity, which are essential for your company’s growth.

Better Data Management

Data management is one area where an efficient IT infrastructure helps you immensely. With proper data management, you can analyze past data and use it to shape plans for your business. A good IT infrastructure ensures that all critical data remains safe. This provides no loss of valuable information due to unforeseen circumstances or accident-related failure of data files, hard drives, etc.

Improving Financial Management

IT makes it easier to manage your finances by automating all your financial transactions. You can also easily monitor and analyze your financial data, which helps you make better decisions about where to spend money, saving time and money in the long run.

Maintaining Network Security

Your network is one of the most vulnerable areas in your organization. IT personnel can help protect it from hackers, viruses, malware, and other threats by developing security policies and implementing them promptly. This ensures that your data remains safe and secure at all times.

Boosting Marketing Campaigns

In today’s fast-paced world, you must constantly be on your toes to survive this cutthroat competition. You must stay caught up with competitors if you want to maintain your position in the market. This is where IT comes into play by offering you an array of tools that will help you streamline your marketing campaigns and give them the boost they need.

Management of Cloud-Based Solutions

Today, businesses have started adopting the cloud computing model for their IT infrastructure needs. This allows them to access all their data anytime and from anywhere in the world. This system will enable businesses to easily manage their entire information technology infrastructure by deploying just one application across multiple devices or locations. This will help them track down what’s happening with their systems in real-time and minimize downtime if there are any issues with the system.

Future of Information Technology in Business

Businesses increasingly rely on information technology (IT) to run efficiently and effectively. Companies use IT to improve the quality of their services and products, reduce costs and increase revenues.

According to Statista, there will be over 15 billion mobile devices in use in 2021, with 18.22 billion projected by 2025. According to Zippia, the smartphone market is growing at a CAGR of 16.4% on a global basis.

When planning for the future, it’s essential to consider the impact of technology. Introducing new technology has always been a game-changer in the business world and will continue to be so.

In recent years, there’s been a lot more focus on “big data” and how businesses can use it. The amount of data available today is staggering, yet companies are only scratching the surface of what they can do with it.

Businesses are becoming more dependent on IT systems for day-to-day operations. This is because these systems provide a better way of managing business processes than using manual methods.

In addition, the global economy has become more digitized. It has led to the emergence of new technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, cloud computing, and Big Data analytics, improving productivity levels in businesses across all sectors.

Final Words

Overall, businesses need to implement a strategy for IT, with priorities and plans in place. There are many different moving parts to the equation, and the company must understand the landscape of IT to create an operating environment where IT can effectively serve its needs. How important is technology? The stakes couldn’t be higher​—businesses that ignore technology run a greater risk of failing.

Businesses depend on rapid, reliable data and high-speed internet in today’s global economy to remain competitive. To keep your company at the cutting edge of international business, you need a business partner with the expertise to tackle the challenges of today’s technology. And at the same time, you must ensure that your company’s data remains secure. You don’t want a single mistake or oversight to risk your business’s reputation or financial stability. And you don’t have time to waste on unnecessary headaches. Finding a partner that can offer technical expertise and detailed awareness of your company’s needs can make all the difference for your business.

Protected Harbor has the right solution for you, whether you are just starting or looking to upgrade your current setup. Our expert team will work with you to discover your needs and recommend the best technology to meet those needs. We will also support your team as they get the new system up and running. We are also recognized as a top cloud computing and cybersecurity company by Goodfirm and Designrush.

Learn how the experience makes a difference. Get a free IT Audit today.

Data Breach at LastPass, How Safe is Your Information?

On December 22^nd, 2022, while millions of people were preparing to celebrate and ring in the new year, cybercriminals were hard at work laying plans to breach the popular password manager, LastPass’s cloud server leaving all of their users exposed.

Due to a prior breach back in August of 2022, LastPass first sent word to its users about a limited security incident within their development environment. At first, it seemed as though there wasn’t too much cause for concern as the hackers had compromised a single developer account and “took portions of source code and some proprietary LastPass technical information.”

However, this past month, LastPass learned that though no customer data was accessed in the prior incident, there were certain source codes and technical information that was taken and used to dupe a LastPass employee into providing the hacker with credentials and keys to access and decrypt particular storage spaces within their cloud. LastPass’s CEO Karim Toubba has done his best to assure users that so long as they have followed their password guidelines, as restated in their statement above, they should be safe. But how safe is their customers’ information completely?

Let’s break it down.

What is LastPass?

For those who don’t know, LastPass is a popular password management software that allows users to store all of their important data, specifically, passwords. Whether it’s an individual’s banking info, logins to a frequented website, or even saved credit cards, insurance cards, memberships, etc. LastPass secures all of it for you, keeping it safe within their cloud software…at least it did, at one point.

How Safe is My Information Now?

The truth is, we can’t speak on behalf of LastPass, but it’s important to note that there are never any sure-fire ways to keep your most important data safe from the ever-advancing cyber-criminals. There are only so many measures companies can take themselves in order to promise your security. Now, this isn’t to say that password management software’s such as LastPass can’t ever be trusted. For example, LastPass went so far as to instill quite a few security measures including their zero-knowledge policy, but it’s important to take the extra precautions yourself to ensure your own safety.

Aside from following the guidelines set forth for password protection from LastPass or any other website, we recommend for individuals to do the following:

• Instill 2-Factor Authorization (2-FA): We understand the ease of being able to just click sign in/login on a screen and having the website right at our fingertips. However, not instilling a 2-FA can cause you more harm than good in the long run. With 2-FA there are many different versions websites tend to use in order to keep your data safe whether that’s by sending a unique code to your phone or email, asking you security questions, and so on. We recommend whenever a user is signing up for any website to always enable 2FA for that extra boost of security.
• Change Your Passwords Often: Let’s be honest, we all have that one favorite password that we’ve been using for years on multiple sites because it’s the easiest thing to remember. That one password however can result in our immediate downfall if it’s exposed in a breach. We recommend updating your passwords and following the specifications provided by the websites you are signing up for to prevent any potential exposure.
• Store Your Passwords on Your Own Cloud: Just because LastPass experienced a data breach through their cloud doesn’t mean that all cloud servers can’t be trusted. The safest cloud option that you have available to you, is your own. Whether your passwords are stored on your own personal device in a folder, on your phone, or on your iCloud/Google Cloud, you are the gatekeeper of your passwords as you set the security measures.
• Don’t Login on Public Computers or Servers: Though this seems obvious, we have to reiterate the importance of staying off of your most important websites when you are out in public. You never know who is around and who is waiting for you to login in order for them to gain access to your most personal files. Always login on a private, personal computer or a private network.

Final Words

Data breaches at this stage in the game of today’s ever-evolving world are inevitable. A security breach on a source like LastPass was something that was unfortunately bound to happen as every single person, including hackers, has their one lucky day. The only thing that internet users can do in order to prevent their information from being spread is to take their own private security measures.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re an average consumer or a company using password managers like LastPass; you need to be sure your data is always safe and take the proper security precautions.

Nervous about how secure your company’s files are after reading about this breach? Contact us today for a Free IT Audit and put your fears at ease.