With such a large portion of business being conducted over the Internet and the use of such a wide variety of technology to do so, web attacks are becoming commonplace. Many attacks have become sophisticated enough that they are virtually undetectable by the average user. The following are five examples of common Web attacks being found by IT support professionals.
Invisible Frames
Commonly called “clickjacking” or “likejacking”, hackers design an invisible frame that takes the end user’s mouse action to allow installation of malware. Some instances use a spyware protection window that suggests the user “click here” to remove detected threats or the malware can be buried in a social post, such as a video on Facebook for which users click the “like” button.
Drive By Downloads
This form of Web attack is more dangerous than most because it does not require any action on behalf of the user for it to occur. Often hidden within respectable sites, hackers take advantage of vulnerabilities within the Web to insert malicious code which is then launched due to vulnerabilities in the browser software being used.
As a small business owner that accesses the Internet from your computer systems you understand the importance of protecting your valuable data from hackers and others who commit cyber-crimes. What you may not realize is the importance of backing up your data in a safe and secure manner to ensure that in the event of a loss or a breach in your security you are able to restore your systems quickly.
Due to cost and convenience many business owners perform on site data backup. While at one time this was the best option, remote backup has replaced this old method for many reasons. One of the most obvious reasons on site backup is not ideal is that in the event of a loss due to theft, fire or flood, the backed up data can easily be lost. Server systems are prone to hardware failure in time and eventually become obsolete which is another major factor in backup costs. Finally, the medium on which your backup data is stored is cost prohibitive and restoration of lost data can be very laborious and time-consuming which adds to the overall cost.
Accessing the internet without proper protection is essentially leaving the doors of your business wide open when you leave for the day. What many business owners do not realize is regardless of the size of your business, you are a potential target for hackers. Credit card information, banking details and identity theft are common goals for these unsavoury types. With such attacks becoming easier for hackers as they develop new technology, it is more important than ever to protect yourself.
Passwords
Although it is tempting to use the same password for all of your online activities, this is something you should never do. Passwords should be unique for each login you use and they should be lengthy and difficult to figure out. The harder a hacker has to work to try to get access to your information, the less likely they are to bother with your business. Since they have programs that can run thousands of password combinations in minutes, the longer and more difficult your passwords are,
At any given time you can look around at people and find many are using their smartphones or tablets to access the internet and message their friends. When users are not connected to a wireless hotspot, they use their data portion of their wireless plan. If you offer free WiFi access at your place of business you have the opportunity to provide a value-added service for your current customers, and a draw to attract new ones.
Another benefit to offering free WiFi to your customers is having the potential to build a database to use for marketing purposes. Customers have to log in and provide simple information such as their names, ages, genders and email addresses the first time they use WiFi services from your place of business. You can provide an option for them to opt in to receive future contact from you which will allow you to connect with them personally and send them newsletters or promotional emails to encourage them to return to your business.
Advances in high tech security have made keeping track of your business easier and more affordable then ever. If you run a restaurant here are eight compelling reasons to consider adding a camera system:
Theft
Theft can occur in many forms. Staff may be stealing other servers’ tips, be giving away free drinks or food items to friends, walking home with a few beers or a bottle of alcohol from the bar, or they could even be stealing from customers. All of these issues can be caught using camera systems strategically placed throughout your restaurant.
Inappropriate Behaviour
The night life at some restaurants can get a little out of hand. Camera systems can help you keep an eye on things to make sure staff are not indulging in inappropriate behaviour that could be damaging to your restaurant or bar’s reputation. Cameras can help you determine if suspicions or rumors about bad behaviour are founded so you can take action to free yourself of the troublesome team members.