Even though most business owners are aware of cybersecurity threats, most do little to protect themselves. Even though the types of threats continue to expand, it’s still important to focus on cybersecurity basics. Cybersecurity experts continue to focus on three obvious threats that are often overlooked.

Avoid Opening Email from Unknown Sources

Opening email containing some form of malware has caused problems for businesses for years, but employees and owners alike still open email from unknown sources every day. Data breaches can, and do, cause costly problems for businesses everywhere.

Recovering after a data breach is costly and, in many instances, the issues cause long-time customers to go elsewhere. It pays to take the time now to review email protocols with all employees to make sure no one drops their guard. It’s also a good idea to check out the ciso guide for requesting a budget when updating systems and additional employee training are necessary.

Using Free Wi-Fi Sites is Always Dangerous

Employees commonly work from remote sites, and that trend has expanded dramatically since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Employees of many organizations also travel for their jobs, which means they are forced to look for internet connections they can use throughout the day.

With free Wi-Fi connections available at coffee shops, cafes, and hotels, those employees often use those sites to check email, communicate with other employees, or send important documents to clients. However, the vast majority of free Wi-Fi sites are not secure. Security experts do not recommend using free Wi-Fi, as hackers routinely intercept and redirect data from connected devices.

Don’t Take Risks with Passwords

Using the same password for multiple sites and weak passwords have been issues for a long time. Cybersecurity professionals recommend using strong, unique passwords for each site to minimize the potential for security issues. The downside to doing so is that, today, users have far too many passwords to remember. However, there are strategies that allow using strong passwords for every site. Password savers are increasingly common and provide a level of security for users. Your cybersecurity expert may have additional options to recommend.

Users are also tempted to give their passwords to others. That may be convenient at times but is rarely worth the risk. There is no way to ensure that person won’t use the password inappropriately in the future. If you’ve ever given your password to another user, consider changing it even if there is no sign that person has misused it. Always protect passwords and take steps to ensure no one can easily gain access to them.

The Risks are Evolving

The ways businesses are being targeted are evolving rapidly. So, in addition to those three common cybersecurity issues, there are many more. Ransomware is far more insidious today that in the past. New techniques make it easier to attack a site, encrypt the data on that site, and demand payment to restore it. Supply chain attacks are increasing, creating massive problems for users. Even smartphones are subject to attacks, which is a major issue for employers and employees who rely on those devices to communicate remotely.

Cybersecurity is an issue every company must effectively deal with every day. Recent statistics suggest there is roughly a 25% chance your company will experience some form of a data breach in the coming year. To avoid being a statistic, evaluate your current cybersecurity needs now and take the necessary steps to protect your company and clients.