How to stop cybercrime: 5 tips to bust phishing, ransomware attacks

There are a huge number of cyberthreats looming over everyone who is online. This includes both ordinary citizens and organisations. Here are 5 tips to stop a cybercrime.

Cybercriminals target those with the weakest security and this problem needs to be fixed by organisations immediately- and it is employees who should be trained first.  ((Representational photo/Shutterstock))

Total business shutdown, theft of secret data, phishing and even threat of ransomware, all of these are part of the reality of going online today. Huge amounts of money is lost on daily basis to cybercrimes and organisations need to take action to protect their company, employees and the public at large whom they provide service to. The task is tough, but not impossible. However, ultimately, cybercriminals target those with the weakest security and this problem needs to be fixed by organisations immediately. The most important step is for employees to be trained first reveals Microsoft Security. Here is how to do so - 5 tips.

1. Training

Employees need to be enlightened about safe email and browsing use, They should be specifically taught to identify and safeguard against phishing attacks and malware. They should be made aware of the fact that there are potential risks online and that they should secure personal and organisational data, and thereby ensure they are not affected by cyberattacks. Ideally, they should undergo a programme where they are guided through a cyberattack - a sort of a phishing simulation.

2. Shun passwords, use multi-factor authentication

Where possible, organizations should provide employees with passwordless authentication systems. Use multi-factor authentication. Along with that, the company should have the latest version of browsers and operating systems. Make it a practice with employees to check website certificates to verify the identity of the website they are on. This can done by checking for and clicking on the padlock sign that can be seen on the extreme left of the browser next to the URL.

3. Use of only secure connections

Employees must be tutored on the importance of using secure connections such as HTTPS. This can b done by installing the HTTPS Everywhere plug-in for your browser. This will ensure that browsing becomes more secure.

4. Enable pop-up blockers by default

Install browser and operating system updates as soon as they are available to maintain the latest security standards. Delays can compromise business or personal data. 

5. Adopt cloud-based antivirus solutions

Cloud protection works together with antivirus solutions to deliver accurate, real-time protection. This will again help to reduce risks.