When you suspect a security breach in your computer or network, it's natural to feel the panic. Yet, the steps you take immediately following a network compromise are crucial in determining whether the situation becomes a manageable hiccup or escalates into a catastrophic event, potentially leading to legal complications, substantial financial penalties, and significant disruption to your business operations. Prioritizing swift and effective response strategies is essential for mitigating risks associated with network security breaches.
In today’s article, we’ve consulted our cybersecurity experts on the top signs of an affected computer and the five steps you need to take as soon as you notice your network has been compromised to prevent as much irreversible damage as possible.
Signs Of An Issue
IBM's recent cybersecurity findings reveal a startling statistic: on average, it takes 277 days for a data breach to be detected and reported. This prolonged period is alarming, especially when considering how swiftly malware, viruses, keylogging tools, and other cyber threats can wreak havoc. Despite the rapid potential for damage, many users overlook early warning signs, often realizing the extent of an attack only after significant, sometimes irreversible, harm has been done. This underscores the critical need for vigilant cybersecurity measures and prompt detection strategies in IT services.
Many common signs of a cybersecurity problem might easily be confused with the symptoms of an aging computer or outdated software. If you're encountering any of these issues, reaching out to your IT support team (or 10D Tech) is a wise move. They possess the knowledge to discern whether you're facing a cyberattack and will guide you through the necessary actions to secure your system. Conversely, if the problem is not security-related, they can help upgrade your software or recommend hardware replacements to enhance your device's performance. Highlighted below are several critical indicators that your computer may be compromised:
- Slow computer or network performance
- Frequent freezes or sudden crashes
- Rapid pop-ups
- Locked user accounts
- Sudden and unexpected file changes
- Abnormal system behavior, such as the device continuing to run after a shutdown
- Unusual account activity
What To Do Next
If you’re experiencing any of these issues, your next steps are important. Here is what our team of experts recommends:
1. Take the network offline to isolate the incident, but DO NOT turn off or reboot the device.
When a device isn’t working the way it should, the go-to move is to hit Restart. In many scenarios, that maneuver can work; however, if malware is involved, this simple act can make the situation worse. In some circumstances, rebooting your device can set in motion a crashed file-encryption process that can cause unrecoverable data loss. Disconnect your device from the network, but allow it to remain on as you move through the next steps.
2. Call your IT team IMMEDIATELY.
It’s crucial to contain the breach before it infects the rest of your network or causes any more damage. Your IT team will be able to investigate the issue to determine what went wrong and what the impact was and mitigate the breach quickly. Do not try to fix this on your own. Attempting to run a “system cleanup” or your antivirus software will waste time and could cause more damage. Call in the IT experts.
3. Call your attorney.
There are several reasons to call your attorney. Depending on the size of the breach, your attorney may refer you to outside legal counsel with privacy and data security expertise who can advise you on the federal and state laws that the data breach may implicate. In Oregon, you must report a cybersecurity breach, and if over 250 individuals are affected, you must also notify the state Attorney General. https://www.doj.state.or.us/consumer-protection/id-theft-data-breaches/data-breaches/
4. Change passwords and secure all accounts.
While your IT professionals are busy addressing the security breach, updating your passwords immediately is crucial to safeguard any additional accounts that might still be secure. If you haven't already, implementing multifactor authentication can provide an extra layer of security, alerting you to unauthorized access attempts. If this feature isn't in place, prioritize securing your most sensitive accounts first, especially those holding critical financial details such as credit card and Social Security numbers. This proactive step is essential in enhancing your overall digital security posture.
5. Check your bank accounts.
The majority of cyber-attacks are driven by financial incentives, placing your banking and financial transactions squarely in the crosshairs. In the midst of addressing a security breach, it's critical to meticulously review your bank accounts and payment systems. This includes direct banking interfaces, third-party payment platforms, and payroll services used for employee remuneration. Keep an eye out for any unusual activity or unexpected modifications that could indicate a compromise. Vigilance in monitoring these financial channels is a key step in safeguarding against the repercussions of cyber threats.
In the event of a cyber-attack, a series of critical actions must be undertaken, including activating a public relations strategy to manage communications and alerting relevant authorities such as law enforcement, the Oregon State Attorney General and others. However, the paramount step following a data breach is to immediately contain the incident and entrust its resolution to an experienced cybersecurity expert. The urgency with which you respond to such threats can significantly influence the outcome, underscoring the importance of swift and decisive action in mitigating a cyberattacks impact on your operations.
Consider initiating a complimentary Cyber Security Risk Assessment to ensure your business's digital safety. These evaluations are meticulously crafted to scrutinize your network, identify any potential vulnerabilities, and devise a strategic plan to address them effectively. Preventing a cyber-attack is significantly more economical than rectifying the aftermath of one. Therefore, taking proactive measures by scheduling your assessment today can save you from potential future expenses and security headaches.
Book your assessment today by going to https://www.10dtech.com/discoverycall/ or calling (541) 250-4108 or (971) 915-9103.
