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Today’s digital environment offers a myriad of opportunities that seemed out of reach just a few years ago. New technologies promise to improve key functions in the business world as well as in our personal lives.
Unfortunately, a clear dark side accompanies today’s impressive cyber capabilities: the constant threat of security breaches. Cybersecurity experts have worked hard to implement effective solutions, but they remain trapped in a never-ending battle against increasingly savvy hackers. As a result, protective protocol grows ever more complicated – and frustrated users are often inclined to throw in the towel rather than implement the security measures their systems so desperately require.
There are a variety of reasons why cybersecurity is such a difficult problem to solve, with patterns often challenging for even the most knowledgeable tech enthusiasts to ascertain. Still, a few clear trends have emerged, as highlighted below.
Numerous Factors Apply to Modern Threats
Security risks may have been prevalent in the past, but they were typically restricted in scope. These limitations were largely imposed by the comparatively few devices we interacted with on a daily basis.
Just two decades ago, most people were limited to a single laptop or desktop computer, and maybe, a flip phone – if they used any devices at all. Today, however, the sheer volume of smartphones, computers, and Internet of Things (IoT) gadgets we rely on for basic functions make it virtually impossible to keep everything straight. We now require smart home hubs and command centers to keep track of our dozens of other devices.
The current range of available devices might not prove so confusing if they all functioned under a single ecosystem, but this is far from reality even for brand enthusiasts. Each gadget, operating system, network, and application comes with its own unique set of risks and complications. Sorting through these potential hazards can prove exhausting.
Beyond the modern potential for breaches, users continue to face physical risks that go beyond the commonly cited hazards of network connection. The loss or theft of critical devices containing unsecured data could prove especially devastating. However, many people fail to consider the crucial role of physical security.
New Risks Constantly Appear
In today’s fast-paced digital world, each resolved risk is followed by several new hazards. For example, while the operating system vulnerabilities that plagued networks over a decade ago have largely been addressed, we now face new complications related to BYOD (bring your own device) workspaces and remote arrangements.
New cyber threats emerge every day – and most of us remain a step behind. Many of the greatest hazards of the next year have yet to be identified. When they become evident, however, a swift response will be critical to ensure that they are appropriately addressed.
The constant emergence of new threats promotes a reaction-based mentality, in which it’s more difficult than ever to take on security concerns proactively. Still, the need for a forward-thinking approach remains. While key measures such as advanced firewalls, routers, and password protection may not keep all risks at arm’s length, these protocols are not yet worth abandoning.
Varying Levels of Risk
With the potential for hacking present on so many accounts, it can be difficult for today’s digital citizens to prioritize. A seemingly minor security incident that may prove of little consequence for one account could deliver a full-blown disaster elsewhere. Not all threats should carry equal weight; their scope depends not only on data sensitivity for specific systems and devices but also on the authentication and verification protocol used to secure those accounts.
Risk assessment is critical for determining which hazards require the most urgent and extensive attention. While advanced security protocol can prove valuable across a range of devices, systems, and accounts, it should be prioritized for the most vulnerable or valuable assets. Without such a structured approach, critical time and resources could be wasted on matters that pose minimal risk.
Step Up Your Security with NerdsToGo – Offering In-Home Services and Small Business IT Support in Frisco and McKinney, TX
Today’s cyber environment may seem hopelessly complicated, but thankfully, you don’t have to navigate this strange new world on your own. Look to the team at NerdsToGo McKinney for assistance every step of the way. We have a strong record of implementing effective cybersecurity solutions for businesses and homeowners. Top measures include upgrading computers with the best security software and providing advice for best practices in today’s threat-filled digital world.
In addition to in-home services, our certified Nerds provide a range of expert business IT solutions. We emphasize a proactive approach while also providing a variety of repairs and backup services for local homeowners and business leaders facing worst-case scenarios.
Call (496) 325-3912 or contact us online today to learn more about the services we provide – and to get a better sense of our strategic approach to cybersecurity.