How to Prepare Your Business for a Russian Cyberattack

While Russia’s conflict in Ukraine may seem far away, cybersecurity experts warn of a new kind of warfare that could be closer at home – Cyberattacks.

Pablo Molina, Drxel University‘s chief Information Security Officer, stated that “I believe everybody should be ready for this — individuals and organizations.”

Cyber Security & Infrastructure Agency issued a Friday “shields-up” warning to U.S. companies in order to prevent cyberattacks that could be associated with a Russian invasion.

As of Tuesday afternoon, Russian hackers had already attacked the Ukrainian government’s websites and bank systems. This is a repeat of the attacks that were carried out last month and over many years.

Molina believes that attacks on critical infrastructure will be the number one concern of the U.S. government.

He stated that “certainly the power grid, internet connectivity and the financial systems, our capability to get money from an ATM in order to make payments using credit cards, water system, sewage systems and transportation networks” are key objectives. All of these are important objectives for any cyberwarfare anywhere on the planet.

Prevent a cyberattack on your business

Molina stated that organizations should employ cybersecurity specialists to:

• protect client and employee data
• protect your websites, and social media accounts
• to stop them being misused to spread malware and misinformation
• employees must be taught to recognize sophisticated attacks like phishing.

He advised that individuals also be prepared for possible cyberattacks by first securing their devices, accounts and information.

Molina warned that fake news should not be believed or shared.

He said, “Fake news and misinformation are the one thing we need to be very careful about.” “We are a divided society politically right now regarding vaccines and the economy, as well as race. It is not uncommon for Russian-sponsored trolls online to spread fake news and information, fueling those conflicts.”

Molina also advised the public to be prepared in the event of cyberattacks, which could disrupt or disable essential services like utilities or banking services.

Molina stated, “Imagine what would you do if the internet was not available?” What is your backup plan for contacting your loved ones? While I don’t recommend keeping thousands of dollars at your home, it is a good idea to have a small amount of cash in case an ATM is temporarily unavailable or you need money.

Molina suggested that people may also consider emergency preparedness.

“Should they have the ability to disrupt the power grid — how long can you function without electricity?” He said. “At the minimum, keep a flashlight and some gas in your car that you can use to charge small electronics should the wireless networks cease to work. Keep a small amount of water in your home just in case you lose water.

Here at SpartanTec Charleston, we believe in being proactive with your cybersecurity. It is not a time for fear or panic to take over but a time to prepare. Now is the time to contact us for a complete and thorough analysis of your network security and employee preparedness.

SpartanTec, Inc.
Charleston, SC 29407
843-418-4792
https://manageditservicescharleston.com