Category: Security

Cybersecurity has become a priority for businesses of all sizes, not just big corporations. Small businesses, often overlooked in the cybersecurity conversation, are now prime targets for cybercriminals. This blog delves into the reasons why small businesses are struggling more with cybersecurity today.

False security assumptions

Small businesses often face a false sense of confidence when it comes to cybersecurity. Many assume that because they’re not as prominent as large corporations, they won’t be targeted. But this is a dangerous assumption.

Small businesses are increasingly attractive targets due to their perceived vulnerability and lack of sophisticated defenses that larger enterprises have. The belief that “it won’t happen to us” is leading many of these businesses to delay or overlook crucial security measures, leaving them exposed to evolving threats.

Resource constraints

Most smaller organizations often deal with tight budgets and overworked staff. IT teams in these companies are often stretched thin, managing not just cybersecurity but also other vital technology functions such as system administration and support.

With so many competing priorities and the lack of dedicated cybersecurity experts, small businesses struggle to maintain even a basic cybersecurity framework. This, in turn, creates a prime environment for cybercriminals to exploit vulnerabilities.

Regulatory burdens

From GDPR to HIPAA to PCI DSS, small businesses must ensure they are meeting a wide range of standards, often without the resources to effectively manage compliance. In many cases, these organizations may be at risk of noncompliance, which could result in fines, legal issues, and reputation damage.

Skills gap

The rapid pace at which new technologies are being adopted has created a widening gap between the expertise required to manage modern cyberthreats and the available talent in the market. The skills gap makes many small businesses particularly vulnerable because they lack the budget to hire dedicated cybersecurity professionals.

In some cases, existing IT staff may not have the specialized skills needed to protect against advanced cyberthreats such as ransomware and distributed denial-of-service attacks. Teams often find themselves ill-equipped to keep up with the latest cybersecurity trends, leading to missed vulnerabilities and poorly executed security strategies.

Supply chain vulnerabilities

Larger organizations that rely on small and medium-sized businesses for services or products may overlook the security measures that these smaller companies have in place. To bypass the security measures of larger corporations, hackers often target small businesses as a gateway to infiltrate the larger organizations.

Security training shortcomings

Many small businesses continue to rely on outdated cybersecurity training modules and programs, resulting in.

However, these infrequent, generalized sessions do not keep pace with newer threats. Cybercriminals are constantly coming up with new tactics, and small businesses often fail to provide their staff with the up-to-date, relevant information needed to recognize and avoid these threats. What’s worse, employees tend to forget or misapply knowledge from a once-a-year session, leaving them more vulnerable to phishing and other online scams.

This is why small businesses should invest in regular and dynamic training sessions, which could involve conducting more frequent training throughout the year, and focusing on specific threats that are relevant to their industry or organization. Additionally, businesses should consider incorporating real-life examples and interactive elements into their training to make them more engaging and memorable for employees.

Regardless of whether your small business is facing resource constraints, skills gaps, or security training shortcomings, partnering with a cybersecurity expert can make all the difference. Don’t wait until a threat puts your business at risk. Contact us today to overcome your cybersecurity challenges.

Threat intelligence platforms (TIPs) offer valuable insights to help detect and prevent breaches. However, fully utilizing them can be challenging without the right experience or expertise. The good news is that there are strategies to unlock the full potential of your TIP, turning it into a strategic asset that helps you stay ahead of cyber risks and prepare for future threats.

Focus on relevant data

When it comes to threat intelligence, more data doesn’t always lead to better results. Many TIPs gather large amounts of information from various sources, but the real value comes from focusing on the data that’s most relevant to your business.

For example, if your company doesn’t use certain software or systems, any information about vulnerabilities in those systems is unnecessary. Set your platforms to filter and organize data based on your specific setup. Additionally, the best TIPs also add context to the data, such as the severity of a threat and suggested actions.  

Match the platform to your business

Not all TIPs are built the same, and not all businesses have the same needs. Selecting the right platform depends on your organization’s size, complexity, and security requirements.  

A small business with a simple IT network doesn’t need an overly complex tool packed with advanced features that won’t be used. On the other hand, larger enterprises handling diverse threats across multiple networks will benefit from robust capabilities, such as integrations with various security tools and timely updates on global threat activity.  

Ask yourself these questions before choosing a TIP:

• What’s the scale of my IT infrastructure?  
• What types of threats are most common in my industry?  
• Do I need visibility across physical, virtual, or hybrid environments? 

The answers to these questions will dictate what to look for in a TIP.

Integrate TIP with security tools

A TIP becomes especially helpful when it complements your existing security ecosystem. Whether you’re using SIEM (security information and event management), SOAR (security orchestration, automation, and response), or other tools, integration creates a cohesive defense system.  

For instance, say your TIP flags a vulnerability. If integrated with your SOAR system, it could automatically trigger a response, such as patching the threat or isolating a compromised device. Without integration, the alert might sit idle until manually addressed, wasting precious time. 

Leverage AI and automation

Modern TIPs come equipped with AI (artificial intelligence) and ML (machine learning) capabilities that automate data analysis and threat detection. Use these tools to quickly identify patterns and trends, saving valuable time. Just keep in mind that they’re most effective when paired with ample human oversight.

Automated systems can occasionally overlook nuances or misinterpret data. By balancing automation with human review, you can maintain accuracy and ensure the intelligence remains actionable.

Use visual dashboards

One of the easiest ways to make sense of threat intelligence is through visual dashboards. These tools turn complex data into clear, visual formats — such as charts, graphs, and maps — so you can spot problems quickly, even if you’re not a cybersecurity expert.

For example, a color-coded map depicting unusual activity on your systems can rapidly alert your team to the location of a possible attack in progress. Dashboards can also show key performance stats, such as how quickly threats are being detected and resolved. This helps you keep track of how well your security efforts are working and where improvements are needed.

Keep your TIP up to date

A threat intelligence platform works best when it’s kept up to date. New cyberthreats emerge regularly, and TIPs need to evolve to recognize and respond to them. If your platform isn’t refreshed with the latest updates, it may overlook critical risks or react to outdated information.

Make it a habit to check for updates from the platform provider, including performance upgrades, new threat indicators, and updated security rules. Just as importantly, regularly revisit your platform’s settings to make sure they still align with how your business operates today, not six months ago.

When used and calibrated properly, a threat intelligence platform can transform your organization’s approach to cybersecurity. 

Ready to make smarter security decisions? Contact us today to explore your options and take the first step toward a safer digital future.

Organizations that invest in threat intelligence platforms (TIPs) often struggle to use them effectively. TIPs are designed to collect, analyze, and share threat data, but they can become overwhelming or underutilized without the right approach. Our guide helps you choose a platform that aligns perfectly with your team’s skills and existing infrastructure, empowering you to respond to potential threats more efficiently and effectively.

Align threat intelligence to your environment

One of the biggest mistakes organizations make with threat intelligence is prioritizing volume over relevance. Having access to dozens of threat feeds may seem useful, but if that data doesn’t apply to your specific business risks, it quickly becomes irrelevant.

Instead, focus on intelligence directly tied to your assets and vulnerabilities. For example, if your organization doesn’t use legacy Windows systems, a feed heavy with Windows XP exploits will be of very little help and can even distract your team.

Look for nonnegotiable features

Not all threat intelligence feeds offer the same value. A TIP’s strength lies in how well it consolidates, enriches, and normalizes data into actionable intelligence.

When evaluating TIPs, look for one that supports protocols such as Structured Threat Information Expression and Trusted Automated Exchange of Intelligence Information. Together, they provide context-rich insights that explain who is behind the threat, what, when, and how it happened, plus suggested responses.

Also important is the TIP’s ability to filter out false positives and eliminate redundant data. Some TIPs use artificial intelligence (AI) to perform these tasks efficiently. However, if not properly configured, AI can be a double-edged sword; while it reduces manual effort, it could also misclassify data. That’s why it’s important not to blindly trust AI. It should assist, not replace, a security analyst’s judgment.

Spot patterns with visual intelligence

Visual threat dashboards can transform raw data into intuitive insights. Anomalies, such as sudden spikes in failed logins or unusual traffic to suspicious IP addresses, become easier to detect and investigate when laid out visually.

These visualizations help analysts spot emerging patterns that might otherwise be lost in vast data streams, turning your TIP from a reactive tool into a proactive one and helping you anticipate threats before they escalate.

Make threat intelligence actionable

Effective threat intelligence goes beyond dashboards; it drives action. Your TIP should trigger specific responses, such as:

• Automatically updating firewall rules
• Initiating timely vulnerability patches
• Isolating suspicious endpoints

Essentially, your TIP should help you react faster, not just accumulate more data. However, achieving this level of automation requires seamless integration. Your TIP must seamlessly connect with existing security tools such as security information and event management systems to facilitate rapid data flow and minimize response time. 

Adopt a multilevel intelligence strategy

A robust TIP empowers organizations by delivering insights across three critical levels:

• Strategic – high-level insights into trends and risks to inform executive decisions
• Tactical – detailed technical information on specific threats, such as IP addresses, domains, and malware signatures
• Operational – real-time intelligence to support swift and effective incident response

The real challenge, however, lies in breaking down team silos. To unlock the full potential of threat intelligence, teams across vulnerability management, network operations, and incident response must collaborate closely. Without coordinated action following alerts, even the most critical intelligence loses its value. But with the right approach, threat intelligence becomes more than a simple data stream, turning into a fundamental part of your cybersecurity defense. 

For tailored advice on strengthening your security posture, connect with our IT specialists today.

According to the FBI’s 2024 Internet Crime Report, ransomware poses a persistent and growing threat to US critical infrastructure, which includes sectors such as healthcare, communications, energy, and financial services. Experts warn that phishing and social engineering are key tactics fueling these attacks, underscoring the importance of proactive cybersecurity measures.

The alarming surge in ransomware attacks

In 2024, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) received over 4,800 cyberthreat reports from critical infrastructure firms, with ransomware topping the list. Notably, ransomware incidents within this sector grew by 9% compared to 2023. 

Hospitals and emergency care centers are some of the most vulnerable entities, frequently targeted by ransomware groups. Attacks on healthcare facilities often result in more than financial losses; they threaten lives and disrupt essential services, creating ripple effects that insurance payouts can’t fully address.

Despite notable victories by the FBI and international law enforcement, including the takedown of LockBit’s infrastructure, ransomware remains a pervasive problem. In 2024 alone, 67 new ransomware variants were identified, including FOG, Lynx, Cicada 3301, DragonForce, and Frag. Moreover, the number of successful ransomware attacks rose, and reported losses jumped by 33% compared to the previous year.

Phishing and social engineering: The real threat

Ransomware attacks often start with phishing emails or other social engineering tactics designed to trick employees into granting attackers access to critical systems. These methods, which exploit human error and trust, account for over half of all ransomware incidents. Clicking on a malicious link or downloading an attachment can compromise entire networks.

Given this, the real danger isn’t just the ransomware itself; it’s the tactics attackers use to infiltrate systems in the first place. Phishing emails, social engineering scams, and unpatched software vulnerabilities create openings for attackers to gain access, enabling them to spread ransomware or steal sensitive data. Without taking proactive steps to address these issues, organizations leave themselves exposed to significant risk.

Yet, many organizations allocate less than 5% of their IT security budgets to counter social engineering or patch system vulnerabilities. This underinvestment leaves critical gaps in cybersecurity defenses and is one of the main reasons ransomware attacks continue to thrive.

How small businesses can fight back against ransomware

To protect your business against ransomware, it’s crucial to focus on both human defenses and technical safeguards. Start by prioritizing regular security awareness training sessions to equip employees with the knowledge to identify and thwart phishing attempts. Simulated phishing exercises can further prepare your team to react appropriately in real-life situations, significantly reducing the likelihood of a successful attack. 

In addition to training your workforce, leverage advanced tools and resources to strengthen your overall cybersecurity posture. Frameworks such as the Institute for Security and Technology’s Blueprint for Ransomware Defense provide a practical and actionable guide to building robust defenses. Using them can help your organization identify vulnerabilities, implement best practices, and create response plans to mitigate potential damage. By combining education, strategic investment, and reliable tools, small businesses like yours can take proactive steps to combat the growing threat of ransomware.

If you’re unsure where to start or need help strengthening your defenses, reach out to our cybersecurity experts today. Together, we can protect your business from the growing threat of ransomware.

Data breaches are an unfortunate norm in today’s digital world, and traditional encryption techniques are no longer enough to prevent them. In addition, as businesses become more data-driven and regulations tighten, the pressure is on to rethink how we secure sensitive information, not just during storage but also throughout its entire life cycle.

1. Homomorphic encryption: Computing without decrypting

Imagine being able to analyze or process sensitive data such as financial reports or medical records without ever decrypting it. That’s what homomorphic encryption allows. It enables computation directly on encrypted data, ensuring it remains protected even while in use.

Though homomorphic encryption was traditionally seen as too resource-heavy for mainstream adoption, its performance has significantly improved in recent years. Some companies are even using homomorphic encryption in real-world applications such as privacy-preserving analytics and secure data outsourcing.

2. Quantum-resistant algorithms: Preparing for tomorrow’s threats

Quantum computing isn’t a common threat yet, but it’s creeping closer. And when it does go mainstream, it could break many of the encryption systems we rely on today. To address this challenge, scientists are working on quantum-resistant algorithms built to endure the power of quantum technology.

3. Confidential computing: Safeguarding data in use

Confidential computing is a way to protect your data while it’s being processed, not just when it’s stored or sent over the internet. It works by locking the data in a secure, private area inside the computer’s processor. This special area keeps the information safe from the rest of the system, even from things like the operating system or hidden viruses.

Big cloud companies are starting to offer this kind of protection, so businesses can handle private or sensitive tasks without risking security or breaking privacy rules.

4. Tokenization 2.0: Beyond payment security

Tokenization isn’t new, but it’s being reimagined for a broader range of applications. It’s been used to secure credit card information by replacing sensitive data with unique identifiers. Now, businesses are applying advanced tokenization to all kinds of personal and confidential data. Because the tokens themselves carry no value and can’t be reverse-engineered without access to the token vault, they’re proving particularly useful in high-risk environments like healthcare and financial services.

5. Format-preserving encryption: Keeping structure intact

One practical problem with encryption is that it changes the shape or format of the data, which can cause problems for apps or databases that expect the data to register a certain way. Format-preserving encryption (FPE) solves that by encrypting data without altering its format. So, a 16-digit credit card number stays a 16-digit number, even when encrypted. That makes it easier to integrate encryption into existing systems without massive reengineering, which is a win for both security teams and developers.

6. Data-in-use encryption: Blurring the lines

Older encryption methods usually treat data differently depending on whether it’s being stored, sent, or used, with separate tools for each stage. But there’s a new way of thinking that focuses on keeping data encrypted all the time, no matter what’s happening to it.

Sometimes called data-in-use encryption, this approach includes techniques such as memory encryption and advanced key management systems that follow the data wherever it goes. The goal is simple: protect data from the moment it’s created until it’s deleted, no matter how it’s being handled.

7. Multi-party computation: Secure collaboration between competitors

In industries where companies might need to share sensitive data without revealing everything, such as fraud detection across competing banks, multiparty computation (MPC) is gaining attention. MPC lets different groups work together and get useful results from their combined data without ever sharing the actual data with each other. It’s a game-changer for situations where teams need to collaborate but still keep their information private, such as in healthcare, finance, or competitive industries.

As cyberthreats evolve and data rises in value, organizations can’t afford to stick with outdated encryption methods. While not every company will adopt all these techniques tomorrow, staying informed and exploring the possibilities is crucial. Whether it’s integrating quantum-safe algorithms or experimenting with confidential computing, embracing next-gen encryption can provide a much-needed edge in an increasingly hostile digital world.

Stay ahead of tomorrow’s threats by exploring encryption technologies that go beyond the basics. Talk to our security experts today and find the right encryption solutions for your business.

A recent analysis of the most damaging software attacks revealed that many cybersecurity guides overlook critical protections, leaving systems exposed to threats. However, developers can adopt practical steps to enhance their defenses significantly. Here’s a breakdown of these 10 essential practices, explained in plain language.

Limit access based on roles

Not everyone needs access to every part of a system. Granting access based on an individual’s role can mitigate damage in case an account is compromised. The concept is simple: everyone should have access only to the resources and tools necessary for their specific responsibilities.

Monitor your systems consistently

Keep a close eye on your software, servers, and tools. Continuous monitoring helps detect unusual activity early. This way, when unexpected changes occur, such as a sudden drop in account activity or unauthorized access to sensitive data, you can catch them immediately.

Control communication at key connection points

Your application doesn’t exist in a vacuum. It often connects with outside systems or tools. Monitoring these key connection points, particularly where internal and external systems meet, can help block potential threats and intrusions.

Track changes to system settings

When attackers gain access, they often change settings to create backdoors or weaken defenses. By logging and reviewing changes to your system configurations, you can spot unusual activity and investigate it quickly.

Require secure logins for everyone

Weak login practices are one of the easiest ways for hackers to get in a system. Strong passwords and multifactor authentication should be the rule for all users, including part-time team members or contractors. 

Update software components when fixes are available

Most applications rely on external software packages or tools that must be updated regularly, particularly when critical security patches are released. Failing to install these updates leaves apps vulnerable to known security risks, significantly increasing their exposure to potential threats.

Consider the ways your software might be attacked

Before an attacker finds a weak spot, try to find it yourself. Often called threat modeling, this process helps you understand how your app might be targeted so you can take preventive action.

Share information only with those who need it

Reduce the amount of sensitive data handled within your system, and make sure it’s only used when absolutely necessary. When you minimize its exposure and restrict its usage to essential situations, you lower the risk of data being compromised or mishandled.

Protect data stored in your systems

Always encrypt and securely store your data. Should hackers manage to steal your encrypted data, it will remain indecipherable and significantly less valuable to them.

Prioritize fixing the biggest risks first

Not every issue is equally urgent. Focus on fixing the most critical problems first, especially those that could be easily exploited. By prioritizing based on risk, you can make the best use of your team’s time and effort.

Want to improve your cybersecurity posture? Contact our team today, and we’ll help you fortify your defenses.

Ransomware has become a significant hazard to enterprises globally, with attackers evolving their methods to cause more disruption and demand higher payouts. For business owners and leaders, staying ahead of these threats is critical to protecting their organizations. Below, we’ll explore the current trends in ransomware and the measures businesses can take to bolster their defenses.

Ransomware today: A shifting landscape

The ransomware threat landscape has never been more dynamic. While joint efforts by law enforcement and security agencies have led to takedowns of major ransomware groups, smaller and more agile gangs have quickly filled the void. 

One key trend is the emergence of new ransomware strains, often rebranded or derived from leaked and purchased code. These groups are working faster, starting negotiations just hours after stealing data.

Most alarmingly, “double extortion” tactics have become the norm. Attackers no longer settle for encrypting company data; instead, they also steal sensitive information, threatening to leak it publicly unless their ransom demands are met. This shift has rendered encryption-only attacks nearly obsolete.

Certain sectors have also become primary targets for ransomware groups. Healthcare organizations, educational institutions, and government agencies remain top priorities for cybercriminals due to the sensitive nature of their data and their perceived vulnerability. These industries accounted for nearly half of publicly disclosed attacks in 2024, according to a BlackFog report.

For business owners and leaders outside of these sectors, it’s crucial to note that no industry is truly safe. The rise of Ransomware-as-a-Service, or RaaS, has made it easier for more and less skilled cybercriminals to target businesses of all sizes with advanced ransomware.

How law enforcement and enterprises are fighting back 

Despite the growing complexity of ransomware, there is hope on the horizon. Law enforcement agencies and international collaborations have made significant headway in disrupting major ransomware operations. High-profile takedowns, such as Operation Cronos, have resulted in a decline in the overall volume of ransom payments — a promising trend for businesses worldwide.

However, the fight against ransomware doesn’t solely rest on external actors. Enterprises are adopting the following proactive measures to safeguard themselves:

• Implementing zero trust architecture – Zero trust is a security model that assumes that threats exist both outside and inside an organization, requiring strict verification for all users and devices attempting to access resources.
• Adopting endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions – EDR tools provide real-time visibility into the devices connected to a network, enabling businesses to detect, investigate, and swiftly respond to threats before they can cause significant damage.
• Conducting regular cybersecurity drills – Simulating an attack can help identify weaknesses, prepare employees, and ensure the organization can respond quickly and efficiently in the event of a real breach.
• Maintaining immutable backups – If ransomware infiltrates your system, immutable backups provide a secure way to restore operations without paying the ransom.
• Staying vigilant with patches and updates – Attackers cannot take advantage of outdated technology when you regularly update your software and systems.
• Leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) tools – Just as attackers are exploring AI-based methods to enhance their operations, businesses can use AI for advanced threat detection and automated responses to preempt attacks.

Our security experts can help you build a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy that includes proactive measures and rapid incident response capabilities. Contact us today to learn more about how we can protect your business from ransomware attacks.

If you think ransomware only hits banks and hospitals, think again. Manufacturing—and other largescale industries—have become prime targets for cybercriminals, and the threat is only growing. In fact,
the manufacturing sector is now one of the most frequently attacked industries, with ransomware
groups realizing just how costly downtime can be for these operations. When production halts, the
losses stack up fast—and hackers know it.

Why Manufacturing is a Prime Target

Manufacturers are in a tough spot when it comes to cybersecurity. Many facilities still rely on outdated systems, patched-together IT infrastructures, and networks that weren’t built with security in mind. Add in the growing reliance on automation, IoT-connected devices, and third-party suppliers, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a ransomware disaster.

Here’s why manufacturers are at risk:

✅ High Downtime Costs: A locked-up production line means lost revenue, delayed shipments, and
frustrated customers.
✅ Legacy Systems & OT Vulnerabilities: Many industrial control systems (ICS) weren’t designed with
cybersecurity in mind, making them easy to exploit.
✅ Supply Chain Weaknesses: A single weak link in the supply chain can provide hackers access to
entire networks.
✅ Lack of Security Awareness: Many manufacturers focus on physical security but underestimate
digital threats.

It’s Not Just Manufacturing—Other Large Industries Are Under Attack

While manufacturers are a big target, they’re not alone. Ransomware gangs are going after any industry
where downtime means disaster. Here are some other sectors feeling the heat:

While manufacturers are a big target, they’re not alone. Ransomware gangs are going after any industry
where downtime means disaster. Here are some other sectors feeling the heat:

🚚 Logistics & Transportation: Shipping giants like Maersk have suffered devastating ransomware attacks, with disruptions causing global supply chain chaos.
🏥 Healthcare: Hospitals and pharmaceutical companies are targeted because they can’t afford system downtime. Patient data is a goldmine for cybercriminals.
🗲 Energy & Utilities: The Colonial Pipeline attack in 2021 proved that hackers can bring fuel distribution to a standstill with a single ransomware hit.
🏢 Large Corporations & Retailers: Massive brands like JBS (one of the largest meat suppliers) have faced ransomware threats that shut down production and forced multimillion-dollar payouts.

What Happens When Ransomware Hits?

A ransomware attack usually starts with a simple phishing email, an exposed vulnerability, or an infected supplier system. Once inside, the malware spreads, encrypting files and locking critical systems. Suddenly, a factory can’t operate, a hospital can’t access patient records, or a pipeline stops delivering fuel. The attackers demand a ransom—often in the millions—in exchange for a decryption key.

Some companies pay. Others refuse and rebuild their systems from scratch. Either way, the costs are
staggering, and the damage to reputation and operations can be permanent.

How Manufacturers (And Other Businesses) Can Protect Themselves

You don’t have to be the next ransomware victim. Here’s how to stay ahead:

• Backup Everything: A solid backup strategy can mean the difference between paying a ransom and restoring systems quickly.
• Patch & Update Systems: Hackers love old, unpatched software. Keep your systems updated and
  secure.
• Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): A simple extra step in login security can prevent many attacks.
• Train Employees on Phishing & Social Engineering: Most attacks start with a simple email tricking an employee into clicking the wrong link.
• Work With an MSP (Managed Service Provider): If you don’t have in-house security expertise, an MSP can monitor, protect, and respond to threats in real time.

The Bottom Line

Ransomware isn’t going away—it’s getting worse. And for manufacturers, logistics companies,
healthcare providers, and other large industries, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The key to survival? Be proactive. Invest in cybersecurity before an attack happens, not after.

Because when a cybercriminal holds your entire operation hostage, the only thing more expensive than
security is the cost of doing nothing. Do you feel your manufacturing business is prepared for
ransomware? Contact our KRS crew today for a free cybersecurity risk assessment and let’s make sure
you stay ahead of the threats. And if you have a brief question, we’re always ready and available for a
quick call, at 201.402.1900, or via email at: info@KRSit.com .

Many small or medium-sized businesses (SMBs) rely on password managers to simplify and secure their authentication processes, but these tools are now under attack. A recent study revealed a startling rise in malware targeting password managers, with cybercriminals adapting their tactics and growing more sophisticated by the day.

The rising threat of infostealers

Infostealers, also known as information stealers, are a type of malware designed to hijack and transmit sensitive data from a victim’s computer. They can come in many forms, such as keyloggers or spyware, but their main goal is to collect login credentials and other valuable information.

The study by Picus Security uncovered alarming growth in infostealers designed to target credential stores, including password managers. By analyzing one million malware samples, researchers confirmed that 93% of malicious actions use just 10 common hacking methods.

Why are password managers a prime target? Their centralized nature makes them convenient for users but equally appealing to cybercriminals. By breaching just one password vault, attackers can gain access to a wealth of credentials across multiple accounts and platforms.

Malware in action: RedLine and Lumma Stealers 

Two notorious infostealers leading these attacks are RedLine Stealer and Lumma Stealer, each targeting victims in unique ways.

• RedLine Stealer is often spread through phishing attempts or fake websites. It specializes in extracting data from web browsers, email applications, and other credential storage locations. 
• Lumma Stealer operates as a Malware-as-a-Service (MaaS), allowing criminals to rent the malware and use it to steal payment credentials, cryptocurrency wallets, and other sensitive information.

Malware tactics are changing. With operating system defenses improving, old methods such as credential dumping are less effective. Modern infostealers now target weaker but valuable areas, such as password managers.

The dark web surge 

The stolen credentials don’t just stop with the initial hacker; they often end up being posted for sale on the dark web. Initial access brokers profit by reselling credentials that give hackers easy access to enterprise systems. These stolen credentials are then used in major ransomware attacks.

Why password manager attacks are increasing 

Cybercriminals are adapting their tactics to target password managers for several reasons, including their effectiveness and ease of execution.

• Minimal skill requirement – Most infostealers only need basic user-level access to scrape stored credentials, making attacks fast and easy.
• Automation – Many attackers leverage automated tools to extract information, streamlining cyber theft. 
• Password reuse – If businesses use repeated passwords across accounts, stolen credentials can lead to broader credential stuffing attacks, exposing an entire network. 

For SMBs, such attacks can be devastating, resulting in operational disruptions as well as financial losses and reputational damage.

Protecting your credentials with secure technologies 

SMBs must take decisive action to protect themselves from these growing threats. Here’s how you can stay ahead of attackers and secure your password management systems effectively. 

• Adopt zero-knowledge encryption password managers. With zero-knowledge encryption, even if the vault is breached, no one can read the stored credentials.
• Enable multifactor authentication. Do this across all user and administrator accounts, making it harder for hackers to gain access.
• Train your users. Educate employees about phishing attempts and other malware entry points. Teach them to recognize suspicious links and avoid downloading attachments from unknown sources.
• Regularly update software. Make sure all software, including operating systems, browsers, and password managers, is updated with the latest patches to minimize vulnerabilities.
• Review logs for unusual activity. Monitor activities in password managers and look for suspicious access or login attempts outside regular patterns. 

Password managers are indispensable tools for managing multiple accounts safely, but they’re not invincible. For SMBs, proactive security measures should be part of a broader strategy to strengthen operations against emerging threats.

Safeguard your business from various threats — contact our security experts to get started.

When running a small or medium-sized business (SMB), security should never be an afterthought. With cyberattacks becoming more advanced, having reliable antivirus software is one of the most effective ways to protect your sensitive data. However, choosing the right antivirus software isn’t as simple as picking the first one you come across. The wrong choice could lead to poor performance, unnecessary expenses, or, worse, vulnerabilities in your defenses. Here are five key factors to consider before purchasing antivirus software.

Cost 

Sticking to a budget is essential, but cost should be more than just the sticker price when evaluating antivirus solutions. Instead, think of it in terms of value for money. 

What to consider

• Free vs. paid versions – While free antivirus software might seem like a cost-effective solution, it often lacks features such as advanced threat detection, multidevice support, or customer service.
• Pricing plans – Does the software offer flexible pricing plans that scale with your business? Many antivirus providers offer packages designed specifically for SMBs, with options for a limited number of devices. 
• Hidden costs – Watch out for hidden costs such as additional fees for technical support, upgrades, or advanced features not included in the basic package.

Speed and performance 

Slow, resource-heavy software can cripple productivity. Antivirus software is meant to protect your system, not bog it down. 

What to consider 

• System impact – Will the antivirus software slow down your devices? Some solutions are notorious for eating up processing power, making simple tasks like opening applications painfully slow. 
• Scan speeds – How fast can the software run a full system scan? It should strike a balance between thoroughness and efficiency, ensuring minimal disruption to your team’s workflow. 
• Smart scanning options – Look for features such as scheduled scans or smart scanning, which allow the program to run background checks during low-usage times.

System compatibility 

Every business uses a mix of devices to operate, which can include PCs, Macs, tablets, and smartphones. The antivirus software you choose should be compatible with your setup. 

What to consider 

• Operating systems – Does the software support the operating systems your team uses? Some antivirus programs are optimized for Windows, while others are better suited for macOS or Linux environments. 
• Device coverage – How many devices can you protect under a single license? Keep in mind that many SMB packages allow for a specific number of installations, so ensure you have enough to cover your team’s equipment. 
• Mobile compatibility – With employees often working on the go, your antivirus software should extend its defense to mobile devices.
• Cross-platform protection – If your office uses a mix of operating systems, look for an antivirus solution that offers protection for all of them.

Comprehensive protection 

Antivirus software should do more than just scan for viruses. It should also defend against evolving cyberthreats.

What to consider 

• Features – Look for features beyond basic virus detection, such as ransomware protection, phishing prevention, and firewall integration. 
• Real-time monitoring – Does the software constantly monitor threats, or does it only check during scheduled scans? Real-time monitoring is crucial for businesses that need 24/7 defense.
• Web protection – With so much business conducted online, antivirus software should be capable of safeguarding your web browsers against malicious sites and downloads.
• Cloud-based updates – Threats evolve daily. Ensure the software offers automatic, cloud-based updates to keep your protection current. 

Customer support 

Even the best antivirus software can run into hiccups, and when that happens, having access to reliable customer support can make all the difference. 

What to consider 

• Documentation – Check if the antivirus provider offers detailed user guides, FAQs, or video tutorials to help your team use the software effectively.
• Support channels – Does the company offer support via email, phone, or live chat? 24/7 availability is ideal if you operate outside traditional business hours. 
• Response times – How quickly does the support team resolve issues? A delayed response during a real security incident can be catastrophic. 

Choosing antivirus software may feel like a chore, but investing a bit of time upfront can save you from major headaches and even bigger losses. Focus on these five factors, and you’ll be set to find a solution that’s tailored to your SMB’s needs.

Still not sure where to start? Contact our cybersecurity experts for personalized advice.