Introduction
Network security is essential to an organization’s protection from hackers who may take advantage if they realize the susceptibility of data systems. For instance, consider a company with a centralized database that stores all its customer data. If the network connecting the database is not secure, it can be vulnerable to attacks from malicious actors who can gain unauthorized access to the data. In such a scenario, the attackers can steal customer data, including sensitive information such as names, addresses, email addresses, and financial information. The attackers can then use this data for fraudulent activities such as identity theft or sell it to other criminals on the dark web. These attacks can cause significant financial and reputational damage to the organization. A perfect illustration of security measures is using a firewall and encryption to ensure data safety. However, a firewall may be compromised, allowing attackers to access the database. Encryption forbids them from reading it without the encryption key. Therefore, network security is critical to an organization’s information security strategy because it helps protect against cyber-attacks and ensures that the organization’s data remains secure and confidential.
Type of security threats
Malware
Malware is a common security threat that can take many forms, including viruses, worms, and Trojans. One example of malware is the WannaCry ransomware that infected over 200,000 computers worldwide in 2017 (Trautman & Ormerod, 2018). The attack exploited a vulnerability in Microsoft Windows systems and encrypted users’ files, demanding a ransom so hackers could give out the decryption key. Another example is the Emotet Trojan, a banking malware first detected in 2014 but continues to evolve and spread (Kuraku & Kalla, 2020). Emotet can steal sensitive data, download additional malware, and even send spam emails to spread further.
Phishing
Phishing attacks are designed to trick users into sharing personal information that could help hackers execute a vulnerability. One example of a phishing attack is the Google Docs scam in 2017. In this attack, users received an email that appeared to be from Google Docs, asking them to click on a link to access a shared document (Levin, 2017). However, the link directed the user to a fake login page that captured their credentials. Another example is the LinkedIn phishing campaign in 2020, where attackers sent emails posing as LinkedIn recruiters and offering job opportunities. The emails contained links that directed users to a fake login page, where their login details were stolen.
Denial of Service
Denial of Service (DoS) attacks are designed to overwhelm a system’s resources, rendering it inaccessible to users. One example of a DoS attack is the Mirai botnet that caused widespread disruption in 2016. Mirai infected the internet of things, including cameras and routers, and used them to stage a denial-of-service hack on a DNS provider (Sapienza et al., 2017). The attacks resulted in significantly significant internet outages for several hours. Another example is the 2019 DDoS attack on GitHub. The attack used Memcached amplification, which involved sending a small request to a vulnerable server and receiving a significant response that overwhelmed GitHub’s infrastructure.
Insider Threats
Insider threats refer to security risks posed by individuals within an organization who have authorized access to the system. For instance, the Edward Snowden case, where a contractor working for the National Security Agency (NSA) leaked classified information to the media in 2013, is a case example. Due to his job, Snowden had access to sensitive data and used his privileges to download and disclose the information (Solms & Heerden, 2015). Another example is the Capital One data breach that occurred in 2019, where a former employee of Amazon Web Services (AWS) was accused of stealing customer data from Capital One’s cloud servers. The employee used their access to the AWS system to gain unauthorized access to the data.
Advanced Persistent Threats
Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) are sophisticated attacks that involve a targeted and persistent effort to breach a system’s defenses. An exemplary instance of an APT is the Operation Aurora attack that targeted several major companies, including Google, in 2009 (Virvilis, Serano & Dandurand, 2014). The attack used zero-day vulnerabilities and social engineering tactics to access the targeted systems. The attackers used the access to steal intellectual property and sensitive data. Another example is the breach of the United States Office of Personnel Management (OPM) in 2014, where APTs believed to be linked to the Chinese government stealing the personal data of over 22 million people, including government employees and contractors. The attackers used spear-phishing tactics to access the OPM’s systems.
Best Practices for Network Security
Regular Update Software and Firmware
Regularly updating software and firmware is crucial in maintaining network security. For example, the WannaCry attack exploited a weakness in old windows versions. This ransomware salvaged over 180,000 computers in about 150 countries (Trautman & Ormerod, 2018). Regularly updating software and firmware could have prevented this attack. Updating software and firmware has been proven to eliminate exploitation, attacks, or vulnerabilities. An excellent example of how regular software and firmware updates can help eliminate vulnerabilities is the WannaCry ransomware attack that affected computers running Microsoft Windows operating systems in 2017. The attack exploited a vulnerability in the Windows SMB (Server Message Block) protocol, which had been discovered by the US National Security Agency (NSA) and subsequently leaked online.
Microsoft released a security update that patched the weakness about eight weeks before the malware. However, many organizations failed to install the update, leaving their systems vulnerable to the attack. The WannaCry hack vandalized hundreds of thousands of computers in more than 100 countries, leading to widespread disruption and financial losses (Trautman & Ormerod, 2018). This instance illustrates the need to regularly check for software and firmware maintenance and updates to protect against known vulnerabilities and attacks. In this case, the failure to update software promptly resulted in significant financial and reputational damage for many organizations. Organizations can deal with susceptibility and eliminate the risk of successful attacks by regularly updating software and firmware. It is also essential to update security software, such as antivirus and anti-malware, to ensure they can detect and block new threats, ensuring that the users do not run into network insecurity.
Use Strong Password
Weak passwords allow hackers and cyberbullies to enter the network systems. For example, in 2013, hackers compromised the network systems of Target by stealing the sign-in details from a third party. Implementing strong passwords and two-factor authentication can prevent such incidents. In 2021, the SolarWinds attack occurred due to weak passwords and poor security practices.
Implement Access Control
Access control is essential to prevent unauthorized access to a network. For example, in 2019, Capital One suffered an unauthorized exposure of clients’ data and other private information. The breach occurred because a firewall was misconfigured, and an attacker gained access to the network. Implementing access control policies and regularly reviewing and revoking access can prevent such incidents.
Use Proper Devices to Defend the Network, such as Firewall, IDS, and Proxy Server.
Using proper devices such as firewalls, IDS, and proxy servers can prevent attacks from getting through. For instance, in 2016, the Mirai botnet infected internet-connected devices, such as cameras and routers, to launch a Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack against DNS provider Dyn (Sapienza et al., 2017). This attack disrupted internet services for millions of users. Implementing firewalls, IDS, and proxy servers can prevent such attacks.
Use Encryption
Encryption is a critical component of network security, and it is essential for firms that want to protect their sensitive data from cyber-attacks. Encryption converts plain text into a coded message that an authorized party can only decrypt. Firms can only have an assurance of security by adopting encryption practices. Encrypted data is safe, at least, even if it lands in the hands of unauthorized persons. Encryption is essential to protect sensitive data in transit and at rest. For example, in 2017, Equifax suffered a data breach that exposed sensitive data, including social security numbers, of over 143 million customers (Kuhn, 2018). The breach occurred because Equifax failed to encrypt sensitive data. Potent encryption formulae can prevent such incidents.
Segment Network
Segmenting networks is essential for companies that want to enhance their network security. Network segmentation involves dividing a network into smaller sub-networks or segments, which are isolated from each other using firewalls, access control lists, or other security mechanisms. Network segmentation can limit the spread and impact of an attack. In 2013, a company known as Target experienced a data hack and exposure of millions of customers’ payment card details (Plachkinova & Maurer, 2018). The breach occurred because the attacker accessed the network through a vulnerable HVAC vendor. Segmenting the network and limiting access could have prevented the attacker from moving laterally across the network.
Monitor Network Activity
Monitoring network activity is an essential security practice for any company that uses computer networks to store and transmit sensitive data. Network activity monitoring involves tracking data flow through a network, identifying patterns, and analyzing them to detect potential security threats. This practice is crucial in ensuring the security and integrity of a company’s digital assets, as it can help to prevent data breaches, network intrusions, and other cyber-attacks. Monitoring network activity can also detect and respond to security incidents. For example, in 2014, Home Depot suffered a data breach that exposed over 56 million customer payment card details (Greenberg, 2018). The breach occurred over five months, and the attackers had ample time to exfiltrate data. Monitoring network activity could have detected the attack early and prevented data exfiltration. Therefore, monitoring network activity is a critical security practice for any company that wants to protect its digital assets from cyber threats.
Regular Backup Data and Institute a Recovery Plan
Regularly backing up data and instituting a recovery plan can help organizations recover from a security breach or disaster. For example, in 2017, the Petya ransomware attacked the shipping company Maersk, causing an estimated $300 million in damages. Maersk recovered with a robust backup and recovery plan (Greenberg, 2018). Regularly backing up data and having a recovery plan is essential for any organization because it helps to protect against data loss, which can have serious consequences. Critical data loss may be due to various factors, including cyber-attacks, human error, hardware failure, and other unforeseen events. If an organization does not have a backup of its critical data and a plan to recover from a disaster, it could lead to the loss of important information, disruption of operations, and financial losses.
Educate Employees
Educating employees is critical to maintaining network security. For example, the WannaCry attack spread rapidly due to employees not updating their software. Educating employees on the importance of regular software updates could have prevented the attack. Employees should be trained to identify and report potential threats, use security tools effectively, and follow security policies and best practices. Regular training can help prevent human error, often the weakest link in network security. Employees should also be informed about the risks of using public Wi-Fi, downloading and installing unauthorized software, and opening suspicious emails.
Importance of Network Security
Financial Loss
Network security is crucial for organizations because it helps prevent financial loss. Cyber-attacks can be responsible for considerable financial losses for an organization. For instance, if an organization’s network is compromised, the attackers can access important information such as financial records, clients’ tastes and preferences, personal information, and trade secrets. The attackers can then sell the stolen data to competitors or use it for fraud. The cost of recovery, compensation for damages, and legal expenses can be very high for organizations that suffer from such attacks. Therefore, installing and using network security measures such as firewalls and encryption can help prevent financial loss due to cyber-attacks.
Legal Liabilities
Organizations must protect their data’s confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Failure to abide by the guiding code can amount to liabilities such as fines and lawsuits. For instance, if a company’s network is breached and customer data is stolen, the company may be liable for damages under data protection laws. In addition, if the company fails to report the breach to regulatory authorities, it can face fines and penalties. Therefore, robust network security measures can help organizations avoid legal liabilities and protect themselves from lawsuits.
Reputational Damage
A cyber-attack can lead to reputational damage for an organization. The loss of sensitive data, especially customer information, can erode the trust and confidence of customers, partners, and other stakeholders. Consequently, data loss can lead to a loss of business and revenue. In addition, a cyber-attack can damage an organization’s reputation in the market, making it difficult to attract new customers and partners. Therefore, investing in network security measures can help organizations protect their reputation and build trust with their stakeholders.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Network security is critical to protecting sensitive data and ensuring the smooth functioning of an organization’s operations. By implementing best practices for network security, such as establishing solid passwords, regularly updating software and hardware, limiting access to sensitive data, monitoring network traffic, and conducting regular security audits, businesses can reduce the risk of cyber-attacks and protect their assets. It is also essential to stay updated with the latest security threats and trends and continuously adapt security measures accordingly. With a comprehensive and proactive approach to network security, organizations can ensure the safety and security of their networks and data and maintain the trust of their customers and stakeholders.
References
Greenberg, A. (2018). The untold story of NotPetya, the most devastating cyberattack in history. Wired, August 22.
Kuhn, M. L. (2018). One hundred forty-seven million social security numbers for sale: Developing data protection legislation after mass cybersecurity breaches. Iowa L. Rev., 104, 417.
Kuraku, S., & Kalla, D. (2020). Emotet malware—a banking credentials stealer. Iosr J. Comput. Eng, 22, 31-41.
Levin, S., (2017). Google Docs users hit with sophisticated phishing attack in their inboxes. the Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2017/may/03/google-docs-phishing-attack-malware
Sapienza, A., Bessi, A., Damodaran, S., Shakarian, P., Lerman, K., & Ferrara, E. (2017, November). Early warnings of cyber threats in online discussions. In 2017 IEEE International Conference on Data Mining Workshops (ICDMW) (pp. 667-674). IEEE.
Trautman, L. J., & Ormerod, P. C. (2018). Wannacry, ransomware, and the emerging threat to corporations. Tenn. L. Rev., 86, 503.
Von Solms, S., & Van Heerden, R. (2015). The consequences of Edward Snowden NSA related information disclosures. In Iccws 2015-The Proceedings of the 10th International Conference on Cyber Warfare and Security: ICCWS2015 (p. 358). Academic Conferences Limited.
Virvilis, N., Serrano, O., & Dandurand, L. (2014). Big data analytics for sophisticated attack detection. Isaca Journal, 3, 22-25.
Plachkinova, M., & Maurer, C. (2018). Security breach at target. Journal of Information Systems Education, 29(1), 11-20.
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