We live in an age that is entirely dominated by digital. A company’s ability to adapt to key digital advancements will directly affect how successful and agile it will be over the years to come. The digital space is vibrant, exciting and brimming with potential for businesses to automate and streamline processes. There is unfortunately a dark side to this too. Without critical data security measures in place, this new exciting field could open companies up to cyber security risks. 

The World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Global Risk Report of 2019 ranked “massive data fraud and theft” fourth and “cyber attacks” fifth. In 2018 personal data breaches via the MyFitnessPall encountered 150-million personal data breaches and Facebook 50-million.

Although consumers are more informed about opening suspicious emails, phishing has become more advanced. According to Avanan, 1 in every 25 branded emails is a phishing email, with attackers mostly posing as Microsoft and Amazon. Attackers research victims social media platforms to add some credibility to their attack, making it more difficult for victims to separate fact from fiction. To add insult to injury, the latest statistics indicate that 58% of phishing sites use SSL Certificates.

At the end of the day where there is growth, there will always be risk. The one follows the other.

How to mitigate your cybersecurity risk

• Know your risk

The tiniest of data breaches can damage a company’s reputation and lead to large economic losses. Contrary to popular belief, small businesses are more at risk of falling victim to cyber attacks as they are less vigilant with fewer protocols in place to circumvent attacks. Every business with data saved digitally is at risk of breaches. 

• Address your risk

  • Train your staff – Keep employees up to date on the latest trends in cybersecurity risks and proved email best practice training. 

  • Protect your website through an SSL Certificate – An SSL certificate will protect your website and any data shared on your website from risks.

  • Browse safely with Anti-Virus software – Anti-Virus and Anti-spyware software protects computers and devices from internet threats and prevents malware from spreading.

At Domains.co.za we offer companies, startups and individuals the same level of high-quality cybersecurity protection we use to protect ourselves and our through our SSL Certificates and Anti-Virus programmes. 

Introducing Domains.co.za’s new domain validated SSL Certificate, Certum DV SSL at only R189 per year.

Chantel Venter

Chantél Venter is a creative writer, strategic thinker, and a serious gesticulator. She’s passionate about storytelling, small businesses and bringing color to the world ­– be it through her words or wardrobe.

She holds a four-year degree in Business and Mass Media Communication and Journalism. She’s been a copywriter and editor for the technology, insurance and architecture industries since 2007 and believes anybody can run a small business successfully. She therefore enjoys finding and sharing the best and most practical tips for this purpose.