With more people now working from home due to the COVID-19 pandemic, cyber hackers are increasing their attacks in an attempt to exploit vulnerabilities in your organisation to steal valuable data. Data from Trend Micro’s Smart Protection Network indicates that there are more than 900,000 Covid-19-Related threats across email, URL, and file and there has been a 260% increase in related malicious URL hits between February and March.
What can I do to stay safe?
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication
This will add another layer of protection to your accounts to stop hackers, requiring them to compromise all factors to gain access.
Install Endpoint Protection
Ensure the devices your employees are using to access company data are secure by installing endpoint protection such as Trend Micro Anti-Virus.
Exercise caution
Be wary of emails from unknown sources, don’t click on links you didn’t ask for and don’t open attachments you weren’t expecting.
What is MFA and how does it work?
Microsoft have now enabled multi-factor authentication (MFA) by default for all new Office 365 business subscriptions. MFA is used to provide an additional layer of protection to prevent others from accessing your account. For example, if a hacker manages to guess your password they will then be prompted to provide additional information to complete the sign-in and you will be notified of the sign-in attempt. It’s a bit like having a security door on your house where you use 2 different keys to gain access.
When MFA is enabled, you will be prompted to setup an additional layer of security. Depending on how it is setup this may be done by approving the connection from a mobile device, entering a verification sent to your mobile phone or entering a changing code from an authenticator app.
Do I really need MFA?
Yes! If you want to protect your data, having at least 2 layers of protection is recommended. If you would like further information on enabling MFA or reviewing your security please contact us to discuss your options.