Unfortunately, the network security risks that businesses need to be concerned with today are extensive. Web-based attacks are also common. This relates to a whole host of different techniques that are used, with redirection of web browsers to malicious sites being a common method.

Denial-of-Service (DoS) attacks are also occurring. These attacks on businesses aim to stop legitimate users from having access to their own system. Thus, if you are subject to such an attack you may not be able to enter your online banking account, website or email for example. Data breaches have significantly increased over the past few years. Cyber criminals tend to target valuable information for financial gain. As mentioned earlier, weak passwords are a problem, and this is one of the main causes of data breaches. However, there are other causes, including database errors, tampering, insider threats, incorrect user authentication, phishing, malware, and vulnerable applications and networks.

A lot of cyber criminals are also using third parties of a way of getting to their intended target. Major data breaches at retailers, such as Home Depot and Target, occurred because the attackers were able to acquire valid network credentials from the third-party providers. Thus, not only do you need to consider your own network security measures, but also you need to consider this when choosing any providers.

Advantages Of IT Security

Now you know a little bit about some of the main IT security threats. The advantages associated with cyber security may seem evident, i.e. you are attempting to minimise the chance of a threat to your business. However, the benefits are actually numerous. Whilst minimising risk is the most obvious one, there are many other reasons why you should definitely make sure your business invests in IT security services. You can read more about this here. Of course, by ensuring that your system is more secure you would like to hope that you never fall victim to a cyber attack. Nevertheless, if one does occur, you will be in a much better position to deal with it. You will be able to minimise the impact of the attack substantially.

Today’s businesses becoming more dependent on network connections and the Internet is making way for an increase in cyber threats with the intent to hijack, steal information, disrupt necessary functions, etc. Ensuring network security, thus, becomes paramount to the vital functioning of almost all businesses. Businesses are encouraged to check out different testing services to check their systems for vulnerabilities and where the weak spots in their systems might be, in order to know how to better their network security. Organizations like Palo Alto Networks work extensively to provide the necessary digital security for local systems as well as the cloud. To aid in the process of making cybersecurity a priority and to ensure more businesses gain the knowledge required to keep their systems safe from attack, several certifications have been designed. Palo Alto Networks exams can be taken up by anyone interested in or working with cybersecurity, to enhance their education and defend systems better. Most cybersecurity professionals make it a point to gain such certifications, so investing in security services can be a major advantage for your business .

Another key benefit to be gained by investing in this type of service is improved customer loyalty and brand recognition. Security is of paramount importance to all consumers nowadays. We are becoming more and more skeptical regarding where we buy things online and where we input personal information. If you can show that your business is taking significant steps to secure your customers’ information, you will undoubtedly reap the rewards in terms of an enhanced and more professional brand image, as well as a loyal consumer base. One of the main reasons why people do not invest in network security is because they deem it to be too expensive. However, it can actually save you money. Think about how costly an attack could be and you will see why investment is worthwhile. You give your company a platform for future growth as well. Without security measures in place, how can you move forward?

Infographic created by Donnelley Financial Solutions, a virtual data room provider