A cyber-attack (also known as a computer network attack) is deliberate exploitation of computer systems and networks. Cyber-attacks use malicious code to alter your computers data, resulting in disruptive consequences that could compromise your business.

Cyber-attacks may include the following consequences:

• Identity theft
• Malware, phishing, spamming, spyware, Trojan horses and viruses
• Breach of access
• System infiltration
• Website defacement
• Private and public web browser exploits
• Intellectual property (IP) theft or unauthorised access

To help you avoid a cyber-attack, our ninjas advise the following:

• Set secure passwords and don’t share them with anyone
• Keep your operating system, browser, anti-virus and other critical software up to date
• Verify the authenticity of requests from companies or individuals by contacting them directly. If you are asked to provide personal information via e-mail, you can contact the company directly to verify this request
• Pay attention to the URLs of websites you visit. Malicious websites sometimes use a variation in common spelling or a different domain (for example, .com instead of .net)
• Turn off the option to automatically download attachments on your e-mails
• Be suspicious of unknown links or requests sent through e-mail or text message. Do not click on unknown links, regardless of who the sender appears to be

Your IT support company should have all this taken care of. If you have any questions or concerns, call them and make sure everything is in place. That’s what they are there for!