On average, ransomware attacks cost businesses $13,000. The malware’s demands for rescuing your files are getting higher all the time. You may think that if you manage to recover from a ransomware attack once, you’ll be safe. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Over half of ransomware’s victims suffer repeat attacks. Right now, you’re probably wondering how… Read more »
It’s a misconception that cybercriminals only attack large corporations like Target and Equifax. The education industry, including universities, colleges and public school districts, should be just as prepared to prevent a cyberattack. Here are 4 ways that you can improve cybersecurity awareness in the education sector. 1. Recognize that Educational Institutions are a Target First,… Read more »
Personally identifiable information such as your name, address, Social Security number, and passwords are a gold mine for cyber thieves. With this information, hackers can drain your accounts, wreck your credit, mess up your medical records, and even make it tougher for you to get a job. If you are not taking active steps to… Read more »
Think about your home security and how you lock your house at night. Many homeowners use three layers of security including a standard lock plus a deadbolt and alarm system to feel safe at night.
What about securing your online accounts? Do you have strong security or are you leaving the doors wide open with weak passwords and security settings? Are you using two-factor authentication whenever possible? Are your “cyber doors” locked or wide open?
The Center for Information Security Awareness (CFISA), based in Boca Raton, FL, is pleased to announce the launch of several new and updated online cyber security awareness training courses. These new updated security awareness training courses provide 15 separate lessons, which cover key information security issues that can impact the workplace. A full course addressing PCI DSS credit card compliance rules will also be available. Those interested can contact CFISA by filling out a form on their website.
Frequently when I provide in person security awareness training sessions for CFISA.org, I am asked if Mac Apple computers are safe from computer viruses. My answer is always a strong “NO” but with some explanation.
First off, we know that there are fewer viruses associated to the Apple operating system than with the Windows operating system. However, there are still enough risk to warrant strong security measures for anyone using an Apple Mac.
McAfee Computer Security has estimated that there are approximately 450,000 malicious programs aimed at Macsi. As the Apple Mac user base grows, so does the number of targeted malware versions. Recently, a new form of ransomware targeting Apple Mac devices has been discovered called MacRansom.
This weekend the World suffered another terrorist attack. Our support and solidarity goes out to the citizens of the U.K. and the victims of this senseless crime.
I had two friends that were in London this weekend and luckily both are safe. They both posted on Facebook that they were safe and not involved in the attack. It occurred to me that social media has now turned into our main tool to communicate to your family and friends in incidents of this nature.
In our business at the Center for Information Security Awareness (www.cfisa.org) we provide in-person security awareness training for businesses on this important subject.
CFISA put together some basic recommendations and best practices for security awareness training and education when traveling.
Cyber Security Awareness Training Alert –
Executive Impersonation Fraud
Executive impersonation scams are on the rise, costing businesses billions of dollars annually. Businesses of all sizes can be targeted and fall victim to these crimes. Understanding how these crimes are committed and the numerous variations and vectors of attack will help reduce the possibility that your organization will fall victim.
Imagine that you receive a phone call from a number you do not recognize. On the line, the caller tells you they have kidnapped your loved one and you hear a voice (that could be your loved one) screaming and crying for help in the background.
They know your loved ones’ name and have information that makes the call seem real. To release your loved one safely, the criminals demand payment via Western Union or other forms of online payment.
What would you do?
This is the setting for an ongoing crime called virtual kidnapping. The criminals in this scam usually have done their homework including researching the victims’ social media sites and even hacking into the victim’s phone or computer.
Security awareness training tip –
Yes, your Apple Mac device can be infected with malware.
Don’t let your employees fall into a false sense of security.
Recent Apple TV ads seem to be providing misleading information.
Covered in the Malwarebytes article – Mac security facts and fallacies
Read the article here:
Malwarebytes Article – Mac security facts and fallacies
Fallacy: Macs don’t get viruses
Fallacy: Macs are more secure than Windows
Fallacy: Macs don’t need security software
Fact: There’s not much Mac malware out there
Fact: macOS has built-in anti-malware software