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When ‘Treat’ turns to ‘Trick’: Spooky Cybersecurity Stats to get you Thinking

As we approach the most chilling time of the year, it's essential to remember that the scariest things might not be the ghosts and ghouls hiding in the shadows but the lurking cyber threats that haunt the digital realm. The year 2023 has brought some hair-raising statistics and trends in the world of cybersecurity. Let's dive into the eerie world of digital security and what you can do to protect yourself.

Ghastly Statistics to Haunt Your Thoughts

The latest Hiscox Cyber Readiness Report reveals a chilling reality for businesses around the world. Over 87% of these organisations consider cyber threats to be the number one threat to their financial health. These companies view cyber attacks as more menacing than the threats of economic downturns or skill shortages.

Cyber attacks in 2023 carve out a spooky future for Cyber Security.

After some eye-opening research by the Click Creative agency Melbourne team, in the past 12 months over half (53%) of businesses have experienced at least one cyber attack, falling victim to unwelcome "tricks". The impact of these cyber risks cannot be underestimated, as one in five firms (21%) that were attacked reported that it was enough to threaten the viability of their business.

Furthermore, small businesses with ten or fewer employees are finding themselves increasingly targeted by these digital tricksters. The frequency of cyber attacks on these smaller entities is on the rise, leaving them vulnerable.

Biggest Cybersecurity Threats That Go Bump in the Night

Among the various cyber threats, Business Email Compromise (BEC) remains the hackers' weapon of choice. Much like a witch's spell, BEC attacks employ social engineering tactics to deceive and compromise email accounts. Once inside, the malevolent forces can wreak havoc, making BEC one of the most menacing tricks in the cyber world.

Additionally, the report found that 45.3% of all cyber threats involve malware or malicious software infecting devices. This is like a digital contagion, spreading through the online realm and causing chaos. Meanwhile, phishing remains the most common attack, accounting for 43.6% of threats. Phishing relies on deceptive emails or messages that trick users into revealing private information. It's akin to a sinister game of "trick-or-treat," where the stakes are high, and the consequences are far from sweet.

A recent 2023 Comcast Business Cybersecurity Threat Report found that nine out of every 10 attempts to breach its customers' networks started with a phishing scam. 

Securing Your Business from Needing an Exorcism

To safeguard your business from these cyber phantoms, it's imperative to prioritise cybersecurity. Much like carrying a lucky charm to ward off evil spirits, businesses need to invest in robust digital defences. This includes implementing advanced security measures, regularly updating software, and educating employees about the dangers of phishing and malware. 

One notable finding from Ivanti is that poor cybersecurity habits are most common among younger employees. To counteract this, businesses should prioritise cybersecurity training, instilling good practices to ward off digital tricksters. Knowledge is the best defence.

Howl-a-ween is this guys favourite time of year. 

So, as we approach Halloween, remember that the most significant "trick" is not falling for the treats offered by cybercriminals. Having your website and business assets assessed by professionals with knowledge of what a safeguarded, secure website looks like can go a long way in ensuring your company is well protected. 

With the right defences in place, you can ensure that your business enjoys a safe and secure digital Halloween, where the only scares are the ones you choose to indulge in.

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