Top Security Challenges for Canada Businesses
Security challenges are ever-present in today’s security landscape. Canada is no exception to security concerns. The following presents 5 security challenges that businesses in Canada need to be aware of when protecting their security interests.
1. Cyber Security Challenges
One of the most significant growing security threats in the world is cybercrime. This includes identity theft, credit card fraud, phishing, and other forms of essential thefts through information technology networks or devices. According to the Symantec 2012 Internet Security Threat Report, “in 2011 alone, cybercriminals caused $110 billion worth of damage worldwide.” Even though there are laws preventing terrorism online, it can still have damaging effects on Canadian citizens’ security interests. To learn more about how you can maximize your business security, security experts recommend security outsourcing.
2. Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs)
A security threat that is particularly concerning for experts and businesses alike is APTs. These threats can be categorized as cyber-espionage attacks whereby hackers strategically gain access to protected systems. The objective of the attacker behind such a security attack could be to steal sensitive information or use communication channels to transmit harmful data. Although there are many types of APT security threats, one particular type of APT security concern includes targeted malware which is designed to take advantage of specific vulnerabilities and evade security measures including anti-virus programs and firewalls. Preventing these security threats requires strategic thinking by information technology security experts who implement high-quality security measures accordingly.
3. Social Engineering
Social engineering security threats involve obtaining sensitive information such as security codes and passwords through illegitimate means. This security threat is becoming increasingly common. The security personal responsible for protecting the security interests of a business can easily fall prey to social engineering attacks that may include:
-Phishing: attackers trick security professionals into disclosing sensitive information about their security systems.
– Whaling: attackers pose as high-ranking officials and persuade security professionals to transfer money.
– Vishing (voice phishing): attackers use telephone technology to fool security experts into giving up sensitive information or making transfers.
4. Physical Security Threats
Although many Canadian businesses take refuge in the physical location of their offices, some cyberattacks can be executed from a long distance away. In 2012, security threats on physical security security almost doubled as 313 security incidents were recorded against 166 security incidents in 2011. IT security experts can help protect your business from physical security threats by offering security risk assessments. These assessments allow businesses to determine their current level of protection and identify possible risks that may exist within a company’s security systems.
5. Data Security Threats
Data security threats include data breaches, theft, and disclosure of information through electronic or other means. Businesses have become increasingly dependent on having access to sensitive information for day-to-day operations which makes the loss of such data highly damaging. A recent example includes the July 2012 hacking breach of Canadian government computer servers which resulted in “the information of 651,000 people” being stolen. IT security experts can help ensure your business security by ensuring all security systems within your organization are up-to-date. This ensures your security professionals will be equipped to handle any security threat that may come their way.
Overall, as security threats continue to evolve and grow in number, companies need reliable security initiatives in place more than ever. Fortunately, IT security experts can help Canadian businesses by requiring security audits of your security protocols every quarter to make sure that you’re meeting the highest standards of security possible. This way you can get peace of mind knowing that all the information your business is responsible for keeping safe remains secure at all times.