A recent report by the ABC has highlighted a significant cyber security threat affecting Australian bank customers. Tens of thousands of banking passwords have been stolen using malware and are now being traded on the Dark Web. Cybercriminals have infected personal devices with a type of malware known as “infostealer,” which harvests valuable data such as passwords, credit card details, and browser data. These stolen credentials are then shared among cybercriminals or sold on the Dark Web, posing a severe risk of financial theft and fraud.
Beyond Strong Passwords: The Risks of Unmanaged Devices
We highly recommend using strong, unique passwords for each online service and storing them in a reputable password manager. Secondly, enabling Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) wherever possible will significantly increase your account security. While strong passwords and MFA are crucial, they alone are not enough to protect your critical customer and business data. Accessing your data from unmanaged devices, such as home computers or personal mobile phones, increases the risk of being compromised. These devices may lack the necessary security measures, making them vulnerable to malware and other cyber threats. When these devices are compromised, it can lead to unauthorised access to sensitive business information.
Automated Dark Web Scans: Keeping Accounts Secure
One effective measure to enhance your security is implementing automated dark web scans. These scans can help detect and alert you if your business credentials have been compromised and are being traded on the dark web. By continuously monitoring the dark web, these scans can identify potential threats in real-time, allowing you to take immediate action. Early detection is crucial as it enables you to change compromised passwords, notify affected parties, and implement additional security measures before any significant damage occurs.
The Importance of Cyber Security Frameworks
To improve your business’ overall security posture, it is crucial to align with a comprehensive framework like the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC)’s Essential Eight. This framework provides a set of best practices designed to mitigate cyber security risks by adding multiple layers of protection. Implementing the Essential Eight ensures that your organisation is better prepared against various cyber threats.
Let’s Talk Cyber Security!
If you want to review your cyber security posture, please feel free to reach out. We provide a variety of cyber security plans designed to address your specific business requirements. Our new mid-tier plan offers comprehensive 24/7 protection, ensuring robust security at a reasonable cost.