The use of hybrid working in technologically advanced countries like the UK is something that may become the norm for many firms after the pandemic demonstrated the possibilities this offers, but it could also create security dangers.
Writing for The HR Director, cyber crime expert at US firm FoxTech Anthony Green warned that this is one of the biggest areas cyber criminals will try to target in 2022, as it is “often easier for attackers to breach home network devices”.
He added: “When personal devices are being used to access company data at home, or brought into the office and connected to company networks, it can expose their system to hackers.”
Mr Green concluded that when such potential vulnerabilities arise, it is crucial for firms to have the sort of IT support in place that can tackle this issue.
He also highlighted a number of other areas of risk. Ransomware was a prominent feature of cyber crime in 2021 and he said early intervention is needed to stop this or cut it off early on, which requires continual monitoring.
Another issue is phishing, with three quarters of attacks beginning with an email sent with the intention of prompting someone to part with data such as a password. These can often be followed up by business compromise emails, which are used by those who have obtained data to craft emails that look authentic and solicit important information like payment details.
Mr Green said good training in security is necessary to help prevent such attacks. He remarked: “Security awareness training is essential. Only 14 per cent of UK companies perform cyber security awareness training, but educating employees on how to spot phishing scams is crucial.”
Many of these threats are listed by other experts too. For example, the Windows Club also puts phishing and remote work threats in its top ten, alongside emerging new threats such as deepfakes and dronejacking.
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