Cyber attacks: threat to us all
Workshop Cyber Awareness

The recent ransomware attacks made it very clear once again: the consequences of a cyber attack can be huge in terms of financial but also human costs. People had to be removed from a British hospital because of failure of systems after a huge global cyber attack. We are dependent on connected systems in a way as never before and failure has consequences as never before.

How are we threatened?

Software that attacks your computer network and devices are called malware or ransomware. Malware, short for malicious software, is any software used to disrupt computer or mobile operations, gather sensitive information, gain access to private computer systems, or display unwanted advertising.  Malware may also contain viruses, worms, Trojans and spyware.
Ransomware is computer malware that installs covertly on a victim's device (e.g., computer, smartphone, wearable device) and that either mounts the cryptoviral extortion attack from cryptovirology that holds the victim's data hostage, or mounts a cryptovirology leakware attack that threatens to publish the victim's data, until a ransom is paid.

This software is spread through various of means: malicious emails, the internet, through local area (LAN) networks with one infected device, instant messaging and P2P sharing files, social networks, pop-ups, usb sticks, mobile devices.

How do we protect ourselves and our organisation?

Up to date software is key. The recent global attack made clear once again that updates need to be done on a regular base. Anti virus software needs to be in place and up to date and the internet traffic has to be scanned for hacker controlled servers and data leaks. Phishing software is a major threat. How to recognise an untrustworthy email with malicious attachments? Be aware of connecting your own devices to the company network. Social media in the workplace should be blocked. Psychological manipulation should be anticipated as part of social engineering techniques and employees should be made aware of this kind of manipulation.

It is clear technology is only part of the protection. The main source of vulnerability in the face of cyber criminality is the behaviour of people. So we have to pay attention to cyber secure behaviour.

About the workshop

To protect your organisation against cyber criminals you will have to invest in updated software, clear and shared policies and cyber secure behaviour of employees.

How to implement within your organisation these three key elements? That question will be answered by a cyber security specialist, an ethical hacker and a behavioural and organisational specialist.

For whom is this workshop?

The workshop will help Executive management, General managers and IT managers in making decisions about what to do against cyber criminals. The relevant steps to be taken will be pointed out including tips and tricks for changing employee behaviour. The combined wealth of knowledge of the facilitators will contribute hugely to the sought after solution.

Want to know more?

Contact our office in J'burg for more information about this workshop. Either by mail or telephone: +27(0)11 317 3625.