How disposable tech is putting business data at risk?

Every day, thousands of small businesses around the world are exposed to cyber-attacks. The target of hackers is not only public institutions and enterprises but also the private sector (small and medium-sized businesses) because computer systems used in their activities are vulnerable and have many gaps. In this article, we will consider

Cyber risks in business activities

The development of the modern economy requires the realization of the full potential of information technology, through which in the shortest possible time to meet the needs of domestic and foreign markets. Every day, humanity produces 2.5 exabytes of information, with the amount of business data doubling every 14 months. “Smart” devices and new services can cause unintended consequences and threats.

Small and medium-sized businesses are becoming increasingly dependent on information systems, making them vulnerable to cyber risks: data leakage due to cyber-attacks and computer viruses, data loss due to human factors, or media failures.

Cyber risks are associated with the use of computer equipment and software both in local (local) networks and in the global Internet; in settlement and payment systems, e-commerce systems, industrial management systems; as well as the risk associated with the accumulation, storage, and use of personal data.

Why disposable tech is dangerous for business?

According to statistics, the average savings from the use of disposal tech is more than 50%. As people are in pursuit of new trends, the life cycle of technology accordingly is reduced. This becomes a big problem in cases when a person has sold his old computer but has not taken care of clearing personal data. And what if it’s an employee of an IT company or enterprise? And what about employees’ personal devices?

Modern second-hand computers boast both a wealth of choices and a range of tasks. A second-hand computer purchase will bring significant financial benefits. But, as with any lucrative deal, there is a downside. And it is primarily associated with an increased risk of data leakage.

It is impossible to completely get rid of the risk, but it can be significantly reduced even by ordinary users.

Digital business security: how to protect yourself?

Businesses around the world are experiencing an era of digital transformation. Business owners need to adapt quickly, combining traditional and digital management methods. According to a study by Deloitte, 90% of hacking operations are exposed to critical data of companies, and those that give them a competitive advantage. This means that the traditional goals of confidentiality, integrity and, the openness of business are expanding – the key ones are privacy, security, and reliability of data.

  • The security of information is ensured by organizing access to it, protecting it from interception, distortion, or input of false information;
  • physical contain various engineering means that prevent the physical intrusion of intruders on the objects of protection, which protect personnel, material and financial resources, information about illegal actions;
  • software tools are special programs, software packages, and information protection systems for various purposes and data processing facilities;
  • cryptographic tools are special mathematical and algorithmic means of protecting information that is transmitted through communication channels;
  • Administrative means of information protection regulate the processes of IP operation, use of its resources, staff activities, as well as the order of interaction of users with the system.

There are three technical components that can help you save computer system:

  • Update software on your computer in a timely manner, including the operating system itself.
  • If you are using Windows, you must work under an account without administrator privileges.
  • An antivirus program must be installed on your computer, which must be regularly updated.