The number of cyber attacks may keep rising in 2019, thanks to the speed at which technology evolves. Protective software, like ServiceNow HR module, may work against these threats, but it still helps to know what your company is up against in the coming year.
Here are some of the security threats you need to monitor:
Cryptomining Malware
You may have witnessed the explosive growth of ransomware this year. An example would be the leaked code targeting Microsoft Systems, sparking a fivefold increase in cryptocurrency mining malware infections. Hackers allegedly stole the code from the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA).
This sort of incident will most likely continue and turn into an even bigger problem for cybersecurity.
Criminal organizations use cryptojacking to employ malware for profit by stealing resources from unsuspecting victims. Cryptomining malware functions by using drive-by scripts on websites and invasive methods of initial access.
Many cybercriminals are using cryptojacking malware to take hold of the processing power of many units of smartphones, computers, and other gadgets. The processing power of large numbers of electronic gadgets can help opportunistic individuals acquire revenue from cryptocurrency mining.
Software Development Subversion
Software subversion is another problem you may want to observe. You may have noticed that cybercriminals persistently exploit software flaws in their attacks. Now, however, there are also efforts to actively interfere with software development processes.
In some cases, developers are the targets for the attacks. Others, on the other hand, have detected malware in several open source software libraries.
The growing complexity of software code is proof of its dynamism. The result, however, can also lead to opportunities for corruption. That’s why you shouldn’t be surprised to see more use of third-party applications or services acting as “back channel” to networks of third-party software.
Watch out for back channels because they can bypass traditional protective methods. Even detection capabilities in place might not work to protect you against software subversion.
Legislations that Can Help Counter Attacks
There may be fear and uncertainty when it comes to cyber protection for next year. But there are laws that can protect you and your company’s data against these threats.
For instance, California set an example among other states when it implemented its Consumer Privacy Act to help drive domestic efforts on comprehensive data security and privacy.
On the other hand, the United States rolled out the General Data Protection Regulation (GPDR) this year. It’s an EU-wide data protection law that supersedes several national privacy legislations.
Companies found guilty of serious violations will have to pay nasty fines. So far, the GDPR is the world’s most sweeping privacy law, something that cybercriminals would do best to heed.
Here’s a list of some of the rules that a company needs to follow:
- Apply the principles of “privacy by design”
- Give a notice of data breaches within 72 hours
- Let customers see and remove data concerning them
- Make transparent data policies accessible to an average person
These are just some of the laws that can protect you against the cyber threats set to attack in 2019. It’s best to do everything you can to make sure none of these threats get a hold of your data.
