As a business owner, internet security should be a priority. More and more organizations are under continual cyberattacks that compromise privacy, data, and trust. Working in close collaboration with a reputable IT consulting firm, you can reduce your security risks. Here are just a few of the many cybersecurity threats you should know about.

3 Types of Cybersecurity Attacks

1. Malware

Malware is any software that’s intentionally created to harm a computer or computer network. Hackers may use several different methods to infect computers with malware.  Harmless-looking email attachments are a common tactic. If your computers and network have drastically slowed down and repeatedly freeze, or if you can’t update your antivirus program, you’ve likely been infected with malware.

2. “Internet of Things” Attacks

The internet of things refers to the extension of internet connectivity to physical devices, like tablets, smartphones, thermostats, cars, security systems, and household appliances. Although this connectivity streamlines information sharing and data gathering, IT consulting firms understand the vulnerabilities. Internet-connected devices, cameras, and sensors can be hacked and will continue to be the targets of aggressive disruption campaigns.

3. Denial of Service

A denial-of-service (DoS) attack aims to shut down a network and impede access by flooding a website with more traffic than it’s designed to handle. DoS attacks often hit high-profile organizations, like banks and trade organizations, and the resources required to allay them can be substantial, especially when attacks originate from multiple IP addresses around the world, as often happens.

If you’re looking to improve your business’s  IT solutions and security, turn to the professionals at NextStep Networking in Cincinnati, OH. They provide a full spectrum of IT consulting, services, and resources, from cloud management to security assessment for clients of every size, including nonprofits. For more information about NextStep Networking, call (513) 792-3400, or visit their website.