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Tech Industry
Data Breach data security Hacker attack NordVPN Retail Industry SMBs Tech Industry

Why Small Businesses Are Major Targets for Cyberattacks and How to Defend Against Them

 

Recent research by NordPass and NordStellar, backed by NordVPN, has shed light on small private businesses being prime targets for cybercriminals. After analyzing around 2,000 global data breaches over two years, they found that retail and technology sectors, particularly small companies in the U.S., were highly attractive to hackers.  

Small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are especially vulnerable due to limited cybersecurity resources and sometimes underestimating their value to hackers. Cybercriminals exploit common weaknesses like poor password practices, phishing attacks, and malware infections. Even technology firms—often thought to be well-protected—are at risk when human error allows hackers to bypass their defenses. 

One reason hackers favor small businesses is the prevalence of reused and weak passwords. Many attacks are untargeted; instead, hackers run credential-surfing or dictionary attacks across broad sets of data. When employee credentials are found in leaked databases, they provide easy entry points for cyberattacks, often resulting in financial and reputational damage that can be catastrophic for smaller firms. 

To protect against such threats, businesses are advised to adopt several practices. One essential tool is using a Virtual Private Network (VPN), which encrypts internet traffic, safeguarding remote employees who may connect via public Wi-Fi. This encryption layer prevents hackers from intercepting sensitive data, ensuring businesses and employees remain protected in various working environments. 

In addition to VPNs, companies can enhance security by employing password managers, which generate strong, unique passwords. Passwords are often the first line of defense, and using complex ones significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access. Cybersecurity audits, ideally conducted by third-party experts, also play a vital role. These audits help uncover vulnerabilities and reinforce trust with customers by demonstrating the company’s dedication to data security. 

Employee training is another effective line of defense, as human error is a common cause of data breaches. Many incidents occur when employees fall for phishing scams or fail to follow security best practices. Regular cybersecurity training ensures staff are better equipped to recognize and avoid threats, thereby reducing potential risks. 

By implementing these protective measures, small businesses can better shield themselves from cyber threats. In today’s digital landscape, investing in cybersecurity isn’t just a precaution; it’s essential for the long-term viability of any business, big or small.
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VPNS
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Why You Should Mask Your Email Address


 

In today's digital age, entering your real email address into a website is a risky move. It's all too common for websites to sell your information to data brokers, who then use it for marketing, targeted ads, or even reselling. To safeguard your privacy and security, masking your email address has become a crucial practice.

Email masking is essential not just for avoiding spam but also for protecting your personal information from falling into the wrong hands. If your email address is leaked in a data breach, it could end up on the dark web, accessible to scammers and cybercriminals. These malicious actors store your data in databases for use in scams and hacking attempts. Additionally, there have been instances where government bodies have purchased data broker information for surveillance purposes.

By using masked emails when signing up for services and accounts, you can prevent your details from being leaked. A masked email can be discarded with a single click, rendering it useless to scammers. This proactive measure significantly reduces your risk of being targeted by cyber threats.

Easy Solutions for Email Masking

For those looking to enhance their privacy effortlessly, two services stand out: NordVPN and Surfshark. These VPN providers offer more than just secure internet connections; they also provide simple and effective email masking solutions.

NordVPN integrates email masking with its built-in password manager, NordPass. This service is user-friendly, offering fast speeds and excellent content unblocking capabilities. Priced at $3.39 per month for a two-year plan, NordVPN delivers great value and a range of privacy tools. Plus, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try it risk-free.

Surfshark is another excellent choice, especially for those on a budget. It not only masks your email but also offers phone number masking for users in the US, with plans to expand this feature to other regions. Known for its speed and effectiveness in streaming, Surfshark provides a high-quality VPN service with a 30-day money-back guarantee. This allows you to test the service before committing.

Using a VPN like NordVPN or Surfshark offers several other benefits. These services protect your devices from hackers, enable you to stream content from abroad, and block ads and malware. The comprehensive protection offered by VPNs makes them a valuable tool for maintaining online privacy and security.


Taking Privacy Further with Incogni

For those looking to take their privacy a step further, Incogni is a useful tool. It actively removes your information from data brokers, reducing the chances of being targeted by aggressive marketing and advertisers. Bundling Incogni with a Surfshark subscription can be a cost-effective way to enhance your privacy defences.

Keeping your email address private is a simple yet powerful way to protect yourself from unwanted spam and cyber threats. By utilising services like NordVPN and Surfshark for email masking, and tools like Incogni for data removal, you can enjoy a more secure and private online experience.


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VPN
Antivirus Cyber Security Digital Privacy NordVPN Norton VPN

Are VPNs Undertaking To Oversee All Digital Security?

 




In the past decade, the services of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have drastically transformed. Once solely focused on providing secure internet connections, VPN companies are now expanding their offerings into comprehensive privacy and security suites. This shift reflects a growing trend towards convenience and a desire for centralised solutions in the realm of digital privacy.

All-in-One Security Suites

Traditionally, users selected separate software for various privacy needs, such as antivirus, email encryption, and cloud storage. However, VPN providers like ProtonVPN, NordVPN, and PureVPN are now consolidating these services into all-encompassing suites. For instance, Proton's suite includes Proton Drive, Calendar, Pass, and SimpleLogin, with recent acquisitions like Standard Notes further broadening its set of attributes.

The Appeal of Comprehensive Solutions

The allure of all-in-one suites lies in their simplicity and integration. For users seeking convenience, having a unified ecosystem of software provides a seamless experience across devices. Moreover, opting for a suite from a trusted VPN provider ensures a semblance of stability in data protection, reducing the need to entrust personal information to multiple companies.

Suite or Standalone?

While broad-gauged suites offer convenience, there are trade-offs to consider. For instance, bundled antivirus software may not match the quality of standalone solutions from established brands like Norton or Kaspersky. However, for casual users primarily interested in accessing geo-restricted content, the added privacy benefits of a suite may outweigh any performance drawbacks.

Do People Want Security Suites?

The increasing prevalence of all-in-one security suites suggests a demand among consumers for integrated privacy solutions. VPN providers, driven by market demand and profitability, continue to build up their course of offerings to cater to diverse user needs. The success of multi-billion dollar enterprises like NordVPN pinpoints the viability of this business model.


As VPN companies diversify and find their centre in becoming a go-to destination for online security, consumers are urged to trace their steps with caution and conduct thorough research before subscribing to a security suite. While the convenience of a cohesive ecosystem is undeniable, it's essential to prioritise individual needs and preferences. By making informed decisions, users can maximise the benefits of all-in-one security suites while minimising potential drawbacks.

Conclusion 

The transformation of VPNs into all-in-one security suites reflects a broader trend towards integrated privacy solutions. While these suites offer utility and unified protection, users should carefully evaluate their options to reach a choice that agrees with their privacy priorities. Then, if you decide to shake hands with a cohesive suite, you might just have all your security concerns moored to the other side, which pronounces a safe and sound experience. As technology continues to take breadth, staying educated and proactive remains the crucial step in establishing a secure digital presence. 


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Overheating
Ads Authentication Cyber Security Data Privacy Data Usage Google Pixel Phones iPhone NordVPN Overheating

Detecting Mobile Hacks: Signs and Solutions

The possibility of getting hacked is a worrying reality in a time when our lives are inextricably linked to our smartphones. Hackers' strategies, which are always looking for ways to take advantage of weaknesses, also evolve along with technology. Thankfully, it is possible to determine whether unauthorized access has been gained to your phone.

1. Unusual Behavior:

If your phone starts exhibiting unusual behavior, such as sudden battery drains, sluggish performance, or unexpected shutdowns, it could be a sign of a breach. According to Tom's Guide, these anomalies may indicate the presence of malware or spyware on your device, compromising its functionality.

2. Data Usage Spikes:

Excessive data usage is another red flag. A sudden spike in data consumption without any change in your usage patterns could signify a compromise. NordVPN emphasizes that certain malware operates in the background, quietly sending your data to unauthorized sources, leading to increased data usage.

3. Strange Pop-ups and Ads:

Pop-ups and ads that appear out of the blue, especially when your phone is idle, may be indicative of a hack. Business Insider notes that these intrusions often result from malicious software attempting to generate revenue for hackers through ad clicks.

4. Unrecognized Apps and Permissions:

TechPP advises users to regularly check for unfamiliar apps on their phones. If you notice apps that you didn't download or don't remember installing, it's a clear sign that your phone's security may have been compromised. Additionally, scrutinize app permissions to ensure they align with the app's functionality.

5. Overheating:

An overheating phone can be a symptom of hacking. Unexplained overheating may indicate that malicious processes are running in the background. If your phone feels unusually hot, it's worth investigating further.

6. Sudden Password Changes:

If you find that your passwords have been changed without your knowledge, it's a serious cause for concern. This could signify a hacker gaining unauthorized access to your accounts. NordVPN emphasizes the importance of immediate action to secure your accounts and change passwords if you suspect foul play.

It's essential to be watchful and proactive to protect your phone from any hackers. Observe the recommendations given by reliable sources regularly. Recall that reducing the effect of a security compromise requires quick identification and action. Our knowledge of and protections against the constant threat of mobile phone hacking should advance along with technology.


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NordVPN
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Which Country Ranked the Highest in the Global National Privacy Test?


Apparently, it has turned out that what is known to be the world’s smallest country has also been named the most literate in terms of cybersecurity: Vatican City.

As per the National Privacy Test carried out by one of the most acclaimed VPN services, NordVPN, The Holy See topped, with eight other top ten nations all being European. On the world leaderboard, the UK came in at number 35.

NordVPN says the test is "designed to evaluate aspects of an individual's online life, including their understanding of cybersecurity in theory and their ability to recognize online threats and react accordingly."

European Countries Dominate

Vatican City respondents received 72 points in the test, the highest of any other country, according to data accumulated since 2020 with nearly 140,000 respondents from 192 countries answering to 20 questions. 

The residents "demonstrated an excellent awareness of digital risks and how to avoid them," notes NordVPN. However, the firm also criticized the residents’ digital habits, mentioning that they need to up their online services and privacy tools in order to maintain their security. 

The second place was secured by Finland, followed by the Czech Republic. As per the reports, when compared to Vatican City, both countries have poorer results in areas pertaining to the test, namely digital habits, digital privacy awareness, and digital risk. 

Status of the Non-European Countries 

Singapore was the only non-European country making it in the top ten, ranking seven with 69 points. The other Asian countries followed were Malaysia and the UAE, both scoring 67 points. Moreover, the US ranked 21st globally with a score of 67, leaving behind Canada in all the test aspects.

New Zealand took first place in the Oceanic region with 68 points, while Australia came in second with 63 points. New Zealand outperformed other nations in every category. Meanwhile, with 67 points, Brazil took first place in Latin America, two points ahead of its closest competitors, Argentina and Colombia. However, Colombia outperformed Argentina in terms of digital dangers (84 to 80) and behaviors (49 to 47).

Moreover, the global average score turned out to be 65, with respondents performing their best when identifying and avoiding digital dangers, scoring an average of 82 points. The average score for knowing how to avoid malware was 69 points, while only 47 points were awarded for knowing how to properly secure data utilizing privacy tools and internet services.  

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Website
Ad Blockers Apps Cyber Security Data NordVPN Security Website

NordVPN Identifies the Most Risky Websites for Users' Privacy and Security

When you browse the web on a regular basis, it can be quite dangerous, but it becomes even more dangerous when you access certain types of sites. It should come as no surprise that porn, streaming, and video hosting websites top the list of services posing the greatest risk to users' privacy and security. 

Malware attacks, invasive ads, and heavy web tracking were among the threats. That is the exclusive data gathered by NordVPN, one of the best VPN services available. In December 2022 alone, the VPN provider was able to block over 344 million web trackers, 341 million intrusive ads, and 506,000 malware infections thanks to its Threat Protection tool.

"The online world is challenging people in every single move they make," said NordVPN cybersecurity advisor Adrianus Warmenhoven.

"Want to read an article? Dozens of ads and pop-ups are ready to immediately cover your screen. Another privacy threat – malware – is lurking for you on websites and in files you are about to download. Websites you browse are also full of third-party trackers that analyze your browsing history to find out what you do online. It depends on you to stop it."

NordVPN researchers wanted to know how these cyber threats were getting to users. They did this by analysing aggregated data collected by their Threat Protection system. While this did not include any personally identifiable information about users, it did assist them in depicting the scenario that everyone faces on a daily basis online.

Malware is perhaps the most concerning of these threats. This is due to the ease with which such malicious software can infiltrate a device and damage or compromise tonnes of users' sensitive data. Adult content sites contain the most malware, including viruses, ransomware, spyware, and other threats. During the coverage period, over 60,000 domains were blocked. Cloud storage and entertainment platforms are next in line, with approximately 70,000 infected platforms discovered between the two categories.

Intrusive ads are any pop-ups or other ad pages that appear without being requested. These not only annoy people's online experiences, but they are also excellent at gathering information about users without their knowledge. As expected, free streaming platforms are the most involved, with more than 55 minion domains affected. Adult content and shopping websites appear to be close behind.

These findings highlight the importance of using a reliable ad-blocker every time you browse the web, especially when visiting certain types of websites.

"Ad blockers are essential for both security - because they block ads that can infect people’s devices - and privacy because annoying ads rely on collecting data from web activity and violating people’s privacy," explains Warmenhoven. "Also, if a website is loading slower than usual, you can blame intrusive ads. Free apps filled with unwanted ads could also drain your device’s battery faster.” 

Web trackers are another major cyber threat because they compromise users' online anonymity. Video hosting services were the sites with the most web trackers. The NordVPN Threat protection tool blocked over two billion domains. Tracking was also high in cloud storage, web email, and information technology sites. As per Nord, Hong Kong and Singapore have the most web trackers in the world, with an average of 45 and 33 trackers per website. Other countries with high tracking rates include the United States, Australia, the United Kingdom, Spain, and France.

NordVPN Threat Protection is a system that safeguards users from the aforementioned online threats. It accomplishes this by scanning all files you download and blocking all sites containing malware and dangerous ads before you open them.

Threat Protection is available on all NordVPN apps. This means that there is no additional cost to enjoy a safer online experience. All you have to do is follow these simple steps:
  • Launch the latest NordVPN app on your preferred device.
  • Click the shield icon on the left side of your screen.
  • Activate the Threat Protection toggle.

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