5 Most Common Cybersecurity Threats for Businesses Today and How to Avoid Them

The digital age has transformed the way people live and work, bringing with it a host of innovations and conveniences to everyday life. However, as technology evolves, so too has the sophistication of digital security threats and the frequency of cyberattacks targeting businesses. 

According to a survey by Check Point Research, the number of cyberattacks worldwide increased in the second quarter of 2024. There were 1,636 hacker attacks per week, an increase of 30% compared to the same period in 2023. 

Considering the alarming scenario and aiming to support companies in identifying the main cyber threats of today, Denis Riviello, head of cybersecurity at CG One, a technology company focused on information security, network protection, and integrated risk management, listed the five most common attacks and explains how organizations should act to prevent them.

1. Phishing
Phishing remains one of the most common and dangerous forms of cyberattack. The method involves sending fraudulent messages disguised as legitimate communications, usually via email, to trick the recipient into revealing sensitive information, such as passwords and banking details. 

According to the CG One expert, it's important to be wary of suspicious links and attachments, as well as unsolicited messages, especially if they come from unknown contacts. "Today, phishing scams are increasingly elaborate and well-crafted. Very attractive offers or requests made on behalf of legitimate organizations can be a strategy to lure victims to fake websites where sensitive company data can be stolen," he warns. 

2. Malware
Malware, or malicious software, is a broad category that includes viruses and other forms of software designed to damage systems, steal data, or compromise organizational security. As threats become more sophisticated and technologically advanced, it has become more difficult to detect and neutralize attacks without multi-factor investment in cybersecurity. 

For Riviello, it's essential to adopt regular preventative measures, including installing antivirus software and performing regular backups. "Tools like firewalls, antivirus software, extensions, and other solutions act as a fundamental barrier to preventing companies' systems from being infected by malware and other types of cyberattacks," the executive states. 

3. Ransomware
Ransomware is a specific type of malware that encrypts company files and typically demands a ransom to unlock them. Attacks of this type can have devastating consequences for companies, paralyzing business operations and causing significant financial losses. Recently, the method has grown in popularity, with cybercriminals refining their techniques to maximize impact and increase the chances of receiving payment.

To protect companies against a ransomware attack, it's essential to adopt a multifaceted approach, which includes implementing robust backup systems and rigorously applying security updates. "Furthermore, network segmentation and the use of advanced threat detection and response solutions can significantly mitigate the risk and limit the impact of a potential attack," advises the CG One expert.

4. Deep Fakes
Deepfakes are a digital manipulation technique that uses artificial intelligence to create fake videos, audio, and images that appear extremely real. The technology can replace a person's face in images, modify a voice to imitate someone, or even create entire videos of events that never happened. This manipulated content has been frequently used to deceive people, spread misinformation, and commit financial fraud against companies around the world. 

The expert is categorical about the need for a solid security policy to ensure organizations' protection against such a sophisticated form of cyberattack. "Employee education and awareness are crucial. It's essential that everyone in the organization recognizes the signs of potential deep fakes and knows how to react appropriately. Only the combination of technology and human awareness guarantees an effective defense against the increasingly sophisticated threats of deep fakes," he explains.

5. Social Engineering
Social engineering is a manipulative technique that exploits human error to obtain private information, access, or financial advantages through actions that compromise a company's security. By exploiting the trust, fear, or urgency of unsuspecting users, attackers can trick victims into providing sensitive data or carrying out fraudulent transactions without any suspicion. This approach relies not only on technology, but primarily on a deep understanding of human behavior.

Investing in raising awareness among leaders and employees through security training and workshops is the primary tool for preventing scams and attacks that use social engineering. However, Riviello points out two practices that can be applied spontaneously to employees' daily lives: "Under no circumstances should you provide personal or corporate information to unexpected requests, even if they appear legitimate. Always confirm the identity of the person requesting the data, especially if the request is urgent or unusual," concludes the cybersecurity expert.