As AI rises and malicious cyber security threats come with it, there’s a need to understand how this new development could impact your home network and personal devices. The Comcast Business 2024 Cyber security Threat Report shows that phishing remains the number one technique used by attackers to get into networks. More than 90% of the 2.6 billion phishing interactions blocked by Comcast Business led victims to sites hosting malware – malicious programs designed to invade networks and devices.
Cybercriminals are better equipped in terms of AI-based abilities and susceptible systems. As said by Noopur Davis, Comcast’s Chief Information Security and Product Privacy Officer: “Cybercriminals are having a moment.”
The Good News: AI is Fighting Back
Companies like Comcast are also using AI against the threat. In 2023 alone, Comcast Business identified 29 billion attempted cyber security attacks. As part of its multi-layered approach to defense, the company includes:
- Advanced protection and detection systems
- Managed Security Services
- Vigilant Security Practices
Therefore, it is an all-encompassing approach towards protecting both businesses and consumers against rising levels of sophisticated cyber-attacks.
Tactics Businesses Use in Combating CyberThreats
Here are just a few ways Comcast Business protects both businesses and their customers:
Anti-phishing technologies:
Phishing remains the most common entry point by far, but Comcast depends on strong anti-phishing software and email gateways, combined with user education, to keep threats from getting through.
Lateral movement detection:
Stolen credentials remain the primary way that cybercriminals move laterally across networks once inside. Comcast’s cyber security team is constantly monitoring network activity for unusual behavior, harnessing AI to spot and remove malware and ransomware-type threats.
DDoS protection:
DDoS attempts to disrupt a company’s network. During 2023, Comcast Business blocked over 1 billion attempts to compromise data, including 126 million malware or botnet incidents aimed at financial theft.
How Consumers Can Protect Themselves
Of course, a lot of the work to secure networks must happen behind the scenes, inside businesses. But consumers can also help their devices-and really, their data-get that same level of security. Here are a few suggestions:
Turn on MFA
An added layer of security that MFA provides means adding an extra step before you’ll be granted access, such as getting a code on your phone or via email.
Practice Protective Behaviour against Phishing
Be aware when you receive an email or message from a sender you don’t know. Check the email address of the sender and never click on links that will be sent your way by the scammer. Try going to the company’s website directly to verify.
Call-back Phishing
Here the link is replaced by the phone number of scammers. You receive a call and are asked for sensitive information like your credit card or Social Security number.
Strengthen Your Passwords
Ensure the use of strong, unique passwords for all accounts. Never base your password off of information such as your birth date or other family members’ names. Consider using a password manager like Last Pass or 1Password.
Cyber security awareness tips for 2024
Be even more cautious in shopping online or performing financial transactions this National Cyber security Awareness Month. Here are best practices:
- Never call any numbers found in suspicious emails: Verify contact details through the company’s website only.
- Be on the lookout for needy appeals: Most phishing messages apply pressure to goad you into a hasty decision without checking facts.
- Protect personal info: Only share sensitive information, such as password and financial, with someone whose identity you have confirmed.