26 Jan Cyber Essentials – Malware protection
Cyber Essentials – The Objective
To prevent harmful code from causing damage or accessing sensitive data. The aim is to do this by restricting the execution of known malware and untrusted software.
What is Malware?
“Malware (a portmanteau for malicious software) is any software intentionally designed to cause damage to a computer, server, client, or computer network.” ¹
Malware has rapidly become the most common form of computer virus. They attack software and make copies of themselves; then send themselves to any computer or device associated with their target.
A malware infection can cause a variety of different problems, varying from malfunctioning systems to data loss. The most popular of Malware attacks are financially motivated, with the average ransomware payment rising 33% in 2020 to £81,160. Could you afford that?
How malware works
Malware uses a variety of different methods to find its way onto your system. It could be down to the user browsing a website that has been compromised, they may open a file from a removable storage media (a memory stick, for example), or it could be something as simple as opening an email that unbeknown to them is infected.
Fight back against Malware!
Yes, Malware is unpredictable, and if sophisticated enough it can be very difficult to fight back against, but there are some measures you can take to be more secure.
- Only download apps for mobile phones and tablets that are from manufacturer-approved shops. Apps from unknown sources will not have been checked for Malware! Be sure your staff do not download apps from these sources. However, there are a few manufacturer-approved shops that are universally safe to use, such as Google Play and the Apple App store which are constantly monitored to ensure they provide a certain level of protection from Malware.
- Install Anti-Virus software on all computers, both at work and at home. Most popular operating systems include a free type of Anti-Virus software, but, unfortunately, these tools are usually very basic and offer a very limited level of protection which are almost definitely not sufficient to ensure you feel comfortable that you are secure. It is very easy to use and is as simple as clicking ‘enable’ once downloaded. Smartphones and tablets can require different methods, but all contain end-user device (EUD) security guidance which is easy to find online.
- Run your apps in a ‘Sandbox’. Running your Apps in a Sandbox stops them from communicating with other parts of your network or device so they cannot be harmed.
What do Cyber Essentials require to achieve the accreditation?
Cyber Essentials Certification requires that you implement one of the three approaches listed above to protect your devices against malware.
Your Cyber Essentials assistant is here to guarantee you qualify – Netcom
At Netcom, we have provided proactive Managed IT and cybersecurity support to our customers across the whole of the UK for over 15 years. Our team of experts will ensure that you are protected against Malware and alleviate any other security concerns you may have. Contact us now to find out how.
For guidance on IT strategy, cybersecurity and digital transformation why not book a free, no-obligation discovery call today by calling 0114 361 0062.