Computer Support Blog

A recent survey has revealed some troubling data for corporate technology users when it comes to Internet security.

According to the Sixth Annual Enterprise IT Security Survey, conducted by Amplitude Research, 67% of large companies (minimum of 5,000 employees) reported at least one significant security intrusion.

That was over 25% higher than the year before.

Companies cited various potential reasons for the increase, ranging from significant Internet security weaknesses to employee Internet usage.  No matter the reason, one thing is clear:  large corporations are coming under increased attack.

The increased prevalence of Internet security attacks against large corporations is an indicator of larger security issues: weak or ineffective security measures combined with lax enforcement of corporate policies.

45% of the companies surveyed – less than half – indicated they had some sort of security audit performed by and outside company within the last year.  That means that over 50% of companies trust that their Internet security measures are effective.

Clearly, based on the numbers, this is simply not true.  That means these companies are putting their data – and yours – at risk.

The issue extends beyond Internet security measures and audits though.  Companies are also being victimized by their own employees.

Employee Internet usage and online behavior can be just as dangerous to a company as its security weakness themselves.  Increasingly, hackers and malware developers are using target phishing attacks and spam – both in email and spam links on social networking sites – to trick corporate users into violating their own Internet security.

In many cases, because users grant permission by clicking on links or opening messages, these attacks are exceptionally effective at slipping past security.

Corporations must begin to heed the warning signs and act in accordance with best Internet security practices:

• Install and update Internet security suite software throughout the corporate network.
• Utilize the strictest spam filters possible to guard against spam and phishing email attacks.
• Update all Internet security software and filters on a regular basis, with daily updates being the best option.
• Ensure employee education and compliance with strict Internet usage policies.
• Engage in an outside security audit at least once a year.

Hackers and cyber criminals are constantly updating their attack methodology and are becoming more aggressive every day.  Corporations must be equally aggressive in ensuring the viability of their Internet security, if they wish to remain protected.

About RESCUECOM:

RESCUECOM provides computer repair and computer support, 24/7: Meeting every tech support need including data recovery, virus removal, networking, wireless services, and computer support for all brands of hardware and software. For computer support or information on products, services, or computer repair, visit https://www.rescuecom.com or call 1-800-RESCUE-PC.

For More Information, Contact:

David Milman, CEO

315-882-1100

david@rescuecom.com

Filed under: business, business computers, Internet, Internet Security, Malware, news, phishing, security, spyware, tips, virus