We all rely on our internal or external IT team to keep business networks safe. That is largely justified, but it is naïve to assume networks are only disrupted by attacks from outside. Following the major Sony hack at the end of last year, for example, there was speculation about possible employee involvement.
According to research by BalaBit, an IT security company specialising in log management, human factors played a role in 84 per cent of security incidents. Most of the people involved had no malicious intentions.
Make reporting part of the routine
A lack of employee security awareness creates risks for company networks. People generally know that opening ZIP files from unknown senders or clicking links in poorly written emails can be dangerous. But phishing emails have become much more sophisticated over time.
Avoiding suspicious links is one thing. I also believe reporting should be an expected part of the response. If you download a file or click a link and later suspect something is wrong, tell IT. Acting quickly can often limit the damage.
It is easy to say that clicking a malicious link is foolish, but attackers’ increasingly professional methods mean it can happen to many people. Reporting an incident may prevent a department or even an entire company network from being unavailable for hours.
Free Wi-Fi? Think twice
With the summer holidays approaching, think before connecting to a public Wi-Fi network, particularly from a work phone, laptop or tablet. Criminals may target tourists through fraudulent networks that imitate legitimate Wi-Fi, putting devices or information at risk.
If you notice activity on a device that you cannot explain, contact your organisation so IT can advise you and, if necessary, disconnect it from the business network. Prompt action can prevent considerable trouble.
For more advice on using the internet safely while travelling, read these tips. Help your IT team enjoy a good summer too.
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