Why Using Only Antivirus Software for IT Security is Not Enough

Monica Morris • Jul 30, 2020

Using antivirus software as your only defense for IT security no longer provides enough protection. When thinking about the world we live in today, you must think about how far we have come with technology. Hackers are continually perfecting the art of hacking. A cyber crime or a virus presently cannot just attack through an email anymore. There are several other entry points. And there are several other types of viruses or malware being developed too.

Antivirus software is a useful tool to help keep your computer safe from cyber criminals. It will scan your computer for any known viruses or malware. The keyword here is it will scan for “known” viruses. Antivirus software is trained to seek out malware threats that are already “known”. Antivirus software has come a long way and the effectiveness of it has been improved upon. The software can look through files, web pages, and applications that are being used on your computer or in your computer network. Antivirus software can try to seek out suspicious behavior that could be a sign of a cyber attack. And even though an antivirus program is a powerful tool, it isn’t always enough to protect your network. What about the unknown threats cybercriminals are making that an antivirus software cannot detect? This is why often times you will need extra help to make sure your level of cyber security is the most effective it can be.

Here are some examples of the extra protection you need to keep your IT strong and to keep your company safe:

Password Protection

You already know what a password does. Its purpose is to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive or proprietary information. What you may not know is that your password protection method  also  needs protection. Weak passwords, mobile device use, keylogging programs, and any other manner of hacks can make it easy for people to get into your information. According to a large-scale survey performed by IBM, 67% of the respondents claimed that the potential loss of company data or customers’ personal data was a major concern.

Using a Firewall

Firewalls are integral parts of network security for a variety of reasons. They are essentially forts that surround your network, and they continue to do their jobs even when you and your employees have all gone home at the end of the day. You can get firewalls to protect intrusion into your software, you can use them to protect your hardware, or you can even do both. The choice is always yours. Firewalls will also monitor traffic in such a way that they can reject any traffic that doesn’t meet a very specific set of criteria.

Anti-Malware Software

Antivirus and anti-malware software are two completely different things. While traditional antivirus alone only works to stop viruses, anti-malware can protect you from far more. In fact, it covers an incredibly broad spectrum of threats including rootkits, keyloggers, ransomware, adware, and even some viruses that your traditional antivirus software might miss. What’s more, anti-malware software protects your network in real time, which means it can block malicious websites and popups before they become problematic.

A Roadmap and Regular “Health Checks”

All of the software and programming in the world can’t make up for creating a security plan and checking it regularly – at least quarterly. Some things you’ll want to do include ensuring that you’ve purchased the right software (and the right level of security) for your company’s needs, making sure that the antivirus and anti-malware programs are scheduled to update automatically, and performing security checks on occasion to make sure that no one can get through the walls you’ve built around your network. All of these things will go a long way toward ensuring that you have protected your company’s and your customers’ information from prying eyes.

Performing Regular Software Updates

Keep performing regular updates for your operating systems and for the software installed on your computer. It’s important to keep up with updates because these updates will help your operating system and software perform better and can help fix any vulnerabilities you may be experiencing.

While antivirus software is certainly important, it cannot provide your company’s network with the protection it needs alone. When you pair it with other forms of security such as password protection, firewalls, anti-malware software, and a roadmap that helps you keep up with any changes in your software or network protection technology, you can rest comfortably in the knowledge that your network is virtually impenetrable.

 

If your interested in adding more cyber security to your company, please contact us today.  We can help provide the extra protection your company needs to keep your most sensitive information safe.

Fort Wayne Indiana downtown
05 Jan, 2024
In an era where digital transformation is at its peak, businesses are increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats in Fort Wayne, Indiana. With cybercriminals becoming more sophisticated, local companies must avoid these threats to safeguard their digital assets. As cybersecurity experts, SDTEK is dedicated to helping Fort Wayne businesses fortify their defenses against these ever-evolving threats. Understanding the Cyber Threat Landscape in Fort Wayne Like many thriving urban areas, Fort Wayne is home to a diverse range of businesses. The variety of enterprises here makes the city a vibrant economic hub, from bustling tech startups to established manufacturing companies. However, this diversity also makes the area a target for cybercriminals. The most common threats include phishing attacks, ransomware, data breaches, and malware. Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are particularly vulnerable, often due to limited IT security resources. Recognizing these threats is the first step in building an effective defense strategy. Why Cybersecurity Matters More Than Ever for Local Businesses The consequences of cyber attacks can be devastating. They can lead to financial loss, damage to reputation, and legal implications if customer data is compromised. In today's interconnected world, the fallout from a security breach can extend far beyond the immediate damage, impacting customer trust and business continuity. Tailored Cybersecurity Strategies for Fort Wayne Businesses At SDTEK, we understand that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to cybersecurity. This is why we offer customized security strategies that cater to the specific needs of Fort Wayne businesses. Our approach includes: Risk Assessment: Evaluate your business's particular risks, considering factors unique to your industry and operational model. Employee Training: Empowering your staff with knowledge and best practices to recognize and prevent potential cyber threats. Implementing Robust Security Measures: This includes firewalls, anti-virus software, and secure Wi-Fi networks tailored to your business's specific needs. Regular Monitoring and Updates: Continuously monitor for threats and keep your security systems up-to-date to combat new and emerging threats. Best Practices for Cyber Hygiene In addition to tailored strategies, there are general best practices that every business in Fort Wayne can implement: Regularly update software and systems to patch vulnerabilities. Use strong, unique passwords and consider multi-factor authentication. Regularly back up data and store it securely. Establish a clear policy for handling sensitive data. Collaboration and Continuous Learning Cybersecurity is not a one-time effort but a continuous process. Collaboration between businesses and cybersecurity experts like SDTEK is crucial. We encourage Fort Wayne businesses to engage in local cybersecurity forums and workshops to stay informed about the latest threats and defenses. Conclusion In Fort Wayne, staying ahead of cyber threats is essential for the longevity and success of your business. By understanding the risks, implementing tailored strategies, and practicing good cyber hygiene, local businesses can significantly reduce their vulnerability to cyber-attacks. At SDTEK, we are committed to partnering with you in this journey, providing the expertise and support you need to protect your digital assets and thrive in a digital-first world. For more insights and assistance on cybersecurity solutions tailored for your Fort Wayne business, contact SDTEK . Your digital safety is our priority.
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In today's digital landscape, cybersecurity is paramount to protect sensitive business information from falling into the wrong hands. As a business owner, you understand the value of securing your data and safeguarding your reputation. That's where dark web monitoring comes into play. What is Dark Web Monitoring? The dark web is a hidden part of the internet where illegal activities often take place, including the buying and selling of stolen data. Dark web monitoring involves scanning the dark web to identify any instances of your business's compromised information being traded or sold. By monitoring these underground networks, you gain valuable insights and can take immediate action to mitigate potential risks. Key Features and Benefits Real-time Alerts: Dark web monitoring provides real-time alerts, notifying you the moment your business's data appears on the dark web. This allows you to respond swiftly and take the necessary steps to protect your sensitive information. Comprehensive Coverage: Dark web monitoring casts a wide net across various dark web platforms, ensuring comprehensive coverage. It searches for mentions of your business, compromised credentials, financial information, and other sensitive data that may have been exposed. Access to an Expert Support Team: With dark web monitoring, you're not alone in the fight against cyber threats. You have access to an expert support team that can guide you through the process, answer your questions, and provide recommendations to strengthen your cybersecurity posture. Addressing Misconceptions Misconception 1: Dark web monitoring is only necessary for large businesses. Cybercriminals do not discriminate based on business size. Any organization, regardless of its scale, can become a target. Small businesses are particularly vulnerable as they often lack the robust security infrastructure that larger enterprises may have. Dark web monitoring is essential for all businesses, regardless of their size, to proactively protect their data. Misconception 2: Dark web monitoring is too technical to understand. While dark web monitoring may involve technical processes, the service providers are equipped to simplify the complexities for you. They will guide you through the setup, explain the monitoring process, and provide actionable insights in a user-friendly manner. You don't need to be a cybersecurity expert to benefit from dark web monitoring. Misconception 3: Dark web monitoring is expensive. The cost of dark web monitoring is a fraction of the potential financial and reputational damage that a data breach can cause. It's an investment in the security and longevity of your business. Additionally, many service providers offer flexible pricing options to suit different business needs, making it an affordable solution for businesses of all sizes. Conclusion As a business owner, the protection of your data is essential for the continuity and success of your organization. Dark web monitoring offers a proactive approach to cybersecurity, enabling you to identify and respond to potential threats swiftly. By leveraging real-time alerts, comprehensive coverage, and the support of experts, you can safeguard your sensitive information, maintain customer trust, and protect your business from reputational damage. Don't wait until it's too late. Invest in dark web monitoring to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals and gain the peace of mind you deserve. Your business's security is worth it.
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