What is the Dark Web?
The dark web is a hidden corner of the internet that isn’t accessible by the usual web browsers. You need special software to access it. This software allows users to browse anonymously by hiding their IP address. Due to the anonymity, the dark web is a breeding ground for criminal activity. Cybercriminals collaborate with one another and share resources such as stolen company data.
It’s also a place where people can buy drugs, weapons and, as mentioned, business information. There are legitimate uses for the dark web. Whistle-blowers can remain anonymous for instance. However, it is because people can hide their identity and location, that so much crime occurs on the dark web.
If you’re worried about how to secure your IT infrastructure then contact Cloud and More we can help. We offer a comprehensive range of cyber security in Bristol and the surrounding area. We can protect your business from cyber threats and safeguard your company. Contact us for IT services in Bristol and beyond.
How does the dark web affect businesses?
In this blog, we will take a look at the threats that the dark web poses to businesses and how you can protect your company. +-If you operate online or store any sensitive data, you are at risk of being targeted by cybercriminals on the dark web. Hackers may try to gain access to your company systems in order to steal financial information or customer data. They may launch a cyberattack to disrupt your business operations or take down your website.
How can I protect my business from the dark web?
• Use strong passwords
Create long and complex passwords by using a mix of upper- and lower-case letters, numbers and special characters. This will lessen the chance that your password can be guessed by a cybercriminal or the automated tools they use to hack passwords. On this note, regularly change your passwords and don’t use the same one across all your accounts.3
• Conduct regular security audits
With regular auditing, you can identify any vulnerabilities in your system. You can then resolve them before criminals have a chance to exploit them. On this note, it’s essential to keep all your software updated.
• Encrypt sensitive data
Make sure you encrypt customer data and financial information. If a hacker gains access to your data, they won’t be able to read it without the key to decrypt the information back to its original form.
• Limit access
You need to limit who can see your company data. The more people who have access to your sensitive information, the more opportunity there is for the data to be stolen. Restrict access to only the employees that need the data to carry out their roles.
• Train your employees
A workforce that understands how to identify and respond to cyber threats will help to protect your business. Ensure that they are trained on phishing scams and malware. Make them as vigilant as possible.
• Use a VPN
To make remote working safer, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) will encrypt your internet connection to protect your online activity. When an employee connects to the internet through a VPN, their online activity is routed through a remote server. This makes it more difficult for hackers to intercept and access the data.
• Monitor the dark web
You can use specialist tools to monitor the dark web and see if your company has been compromised. By searching the dark web, you can see if any of your company’s private data is on it. You can then take action and secure any breached data or accounts.
• Work with IT cyber security experts
IT professionals have the expertise and resources to help protect you from dark web threats. They can add a crucial extra layer of protection for your business against the threat. As well as implementing security measures, they can educate and train your staff on cyber threats.
As you can see, you must take steps to protect yourself from the dark web. It’s vital to keep your business safe and secure in this digital age.
Why use a professional IT support company to protect your business from the dark web?
They have the expertise and experience in the field of cybersecurity. They know the best practices for protecting your business from the dark web. A reliable IT support company can also offer proactive IT monitoring and respond to any threats quickly to reduce downtime. Professional IT support companies have the most advanced technology which provides greater protection against dark web threats. By outsourcing your cybersecurity, it gives you the peace of mind that your business is protected.
Don’t let the dark web damage your company’s reputation or cost you money. If you’re looking for cyber security in Bristol or nearby, Cloud and More can help. We offer cyber security and other IT services in Bristol and beyond. Give us a call to discuss your requirements.
