What is mobile network security?

Mobile network security refers to cybersecurity risks and tools specific to smartphones and tablets. A mobile network is mainly for devices you would connect through a wireless provider, although it can also include hotspots and routers.

The main differentiating factor in a mobile network is portability. Securing portable devices poses unique risks that can be challenging to mitigate, particularly regarding endpoint security.

5 steps for securing mobile networks

How can organizations secure their mobile networks? Specific strategies vary depending on their unique needs, but there are a few core strategies anyone can implement.

1. Conduct a risk assessment

Securing a mobile network requires expanding the visibility of your vulnerabilities. A risk assessment will reveal weak spots and highlight the most significant threats.

A standard risk assessment consists of six basic steps for gathering and analyzing information on your network’s security features. Pay special attention to endpoint security when analyzing mobile networks. Most activity occurs at endpoints, such as smartphones, so this aspect is the most exposed to cybersecurity risks.

2. Secure your routers

Router security is critical for protecting mobile networks. Unsecured Wi-Fi routers can give hackers easy access to your organization’s mobile network and all devices on it. Once inside, they can steal private data or spread malware.

Prevent this by securing your routers. Even something as simple as changing the password can improve security. Many people and even businesses make the mistake of leaving their routers set to weak default passwords, which poses a critical safety risk.

3. Leverage network segmentation and monitoring

Network segmentation is commonly used to create low-security public networks for customers, separate from higher-security employee ones. But you can also use it laterally and internally.

Splitting your network into isolated, secured segments makes it significantly harder for hackers to steal or damage data. It also minimizes the risks associated with weak or compromised endpoint security. Even if a cybercriminal steals an employee’s phone, they can only access limited chunks of information with it.

Network security is best implemented on an organizationwide level but can also be fairly simple. For example, most routers have basic segmentation capabilities that allow users to create a public and private network on the same device.

You’ll also want to make sure you’re performing careful network monitoring. This is another technology that’s particularly useful for ensuring strong endpoint security. Endpoints are among the most challenging risk factors to track in mobile networks since there is such a high volume of devices. Automated monitoring can simplify this by analyzing endpoint activity and filtering out anything suspicious.

4. Provide training on identifying unsafe apps

Unsafe apps can be difficult to spot. Many have extensive advertising online and often appear to be harmless games. There are some red flags you can use to help your team identify and avoid these apps, though.

For example, scam apps are almost always free. The scammers and hackers who create them want people to download them, so they rarely charge a fee. There may be in-app purchase options, though, through which they are able to obtain credit card information and other personal data.

Scam apps also tend to have inconsistent, unreliable performance and low-quality graphics. They may be disguised to look like legitimate pop-ups on your phone. These apps also tend to include excessive calls to action, such as making a payment or providing information to create an account.

5. Secure wireless accounts

SIM swapping is one of the top mobile network security threats today. This attack involves committing fraud by transferring someone’s phone number to a new SIM card without permission. You must take special precautions to prevent this.

Start by getting in touch with your organization’s wireless provider. They will help you set up security measures to verify a user’s identity before allowing any changes to their phone number or SIM. For example, your provider may allow you to set up a PIN system employees can use to authorize any changes to their wireless account or phone number.

Additionally, consider keeping high-risk phone numbers confidential. Hackers need a phone number and personal information to commit SIM swapping. Keeping sensitive phone numbers private and not posting them anywhere online will reduce the risk of fraud attempts.

Even if you are not handling highly sensitive information, confidentiality is a core best practice for good data security. Using encryption tools and minimizing the spread of data can increase privacy and lessen risks. This applies to all personal information, not just phone numbers.

Top 4 mobile security threats

Mobile devices are vulnerable to many of the same threats facing typical desktop computers, such as phishing or malware. There are additional risk factors unique to mobile networks, though. These include SIM swapping, cross-app tracking, scam apps, and unsecured Wi-Fi networks.

1. SIM swapping

Over the past few years, SIM swapping has become one of the most severe mobile network security threats. This fraud strategy involves stealing someone’s phone number by illegally transferring it to a new SIM card in the fraudster’s smartphone. The scammer can then use it to confirm purchases or access financial information.

The fraudster usually leverages personal information available online to accomplish a SIM swapping scheme. For instance, they might use social media to find a victim’s name, address and contact information. Scammers typically choose a target they know will likely have a lot of money or access to valuable data.

2. Tracking and data sharing

Some apps can track activity or share data even when the user is not actively using that app. This cross-app tracking often happens without someone’s knowledge. App developers can use this data to gather personal information or sell targeted ads.

Unauthorized cross-app tracking can pose a serious security risk, particularly if your organization handles sensitive or confidential information. Any type of app can include monitoring and data-sharing features. For example, TikTok has faced extensive security scrutiny over recent years due to concerns about cross-app tracking and cookies. India even banned the app due to data security issues.

3. Scam apps

Some mobile apps are specifically designed to run scams or take users to phishing sites. These apps often come in the form of free games that show users excessive ads. Scam apps are especially likely to feature deceptive ads, such as clickbait designed to look like a legitimate pop-up on your phone.

Scam apps can pose myriad mobile network security risks. They can include cross-app tracking, sharing user data, exposing people to phishing content, stealing personal information and more. In-app purchases can even lead to theft of financial data.

Some scam apps are more obvious than others. For instance, over the past few years, there have been a growing number of ads for games that look nothing like the advertisement shows. The scammers who create these apps put more effort into the ad than the app itself because they simply want people to download it, not play it for long. However, it’s often difficult to tell if the app or game is a scam at first glance.

4. Unsecured Wi-Fi

Public or unsecured Wi-Fi networks are among the most prevalent threats to mobile network security. Hackers can easily exploit these networks to distribute malware or access users’ data without their knowledge. They leverage tactics like ARP spoofing and DNS poisoning to funnel users onto unsafe websites through unsecure Wi-Fi.

Top 3 mobile security solutions

There are many risks facing mobile network security, but you can use various technologies to protect your organization’s devices. These tools will help strengthen endpoint security and increase network visibility.

1. Mobile VPNs

VPNs are one of the most robust tools for protecting mobile devices today. They improve privacy, minimize tracking, strengthen data security and more. A VPN can be a good way to reduce risk factors if you’re concerned about your team using mobile devices on different networks with varying security levels.

There are a wide array of mobile VPNs available today. Top-rated options include:

• NordVPN
• ExpressVPN
• Surfshark
• ProtonVPN

2. Mobile antivirus apps

Antivirus software is a must-have in laptop and desktop security, but it’s also available for mobile devices. Many people don’t realize they can add antivirus apps to their phones and tablets like on a Mac or PC.

There are a growing number of mobile antivirus apps for Android and iOS with varying prices and features. Bitdefender is a top choice if you’re looking for an app that works on Android and iOS. The mobile version of Bitdefender includes protection from phishing and malicious sites, as well as a built-in VPN.

3. Network monitoring software

Network monitoring software is invaluable for getting a bird’s-eye view of your mobile network and spotting suspicious activity early. There are dozens of great network monitoring programs available today such as SolarWinds, Checkmk, and NinjaOne — so do your research and choose the best one for your particular use case.

You should prioritize endpoint monitoring features for mobile networks in particular. Endpoints are the more vulnerable part of any mobile network and typically the hardest to track. Robust endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions such as SentinelOne, CrowdStrike, and Bitdefender will be invaluable for protecting your network.

Bottom line: Secure mobile networks by focusing on your endpoints

Mobile network security is critical because people are accessing increasing amounts of sensitive data directly from their mobile devices. You can take action to protect your organization’s system by implementing network segmentation, increasing visibility, analyzing risk assessment data and providing users with mobile security tools. VPNs and antivirus apps can go a long way toward securing endpoints.

One of the best ways to protect your mobile networks and devices is with a VPN. See our list of the best mobile VPNs specifically tailored for smartphones and tablets.

The post Mobile Network Security: How to Secure Mobile Networks appeared first on Enterprise Networking Planet.

Some of the most significant industrywide pain points of 2023 will become the top network security trends in 2024. Enterprises that want to remain secure and protect their most valuable assets must understand the threats and emerging available solutions.

• The first key takeaway revolves around proactive behavior. Security executives can only protect their enterprises if they actively address these issues as soon as possible. Early strategization and intervention are vital.
• The second key takeaway involves technological investment. Since cybercriminals will take full advantage of breakthrough tools like artificial intelligence (AI) and the internet of things (IoT), IT professionals must also not hesitate to adopt them. 

Here are the most substantial network security trends enterprises will face as they head into 2024.

1. Greater IoT vulnerabilities 

As the IoT grows substantially, experts project tens of billions of connected devices will come online in the near future. It has remained one of the top network security trends of 2023 and shows no signs of slowing down as we head into 2024.

Although the growth of connected devices may open up many doors for your organization, you should know the potential downsides. Over 5.85 million IoT attacks occurred in December 2021 — the number increased to 10.54 million by the same time the following year. Since these incidents nearly doubled in such a short span, the trend will likely continue into 2024.

IoT devices have infamous security weaknesses and create a much broader attack surface, which spells trouble for even the most secure enterprises. If you plan to adopt more in 2024, you must protect against larger botnets, new vulnerabilities and more distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks.

2. Ransomware attack damage keeps growing

The number of ransomware attacks has steadily increased in past years, making it a chief concern for many chief information officers. Cybercriminals adopted new intrusion, encryption, and theft techniques in 2023, and it remains one of the top network security trends heading into 2024.

Ransomware attacks happen once every two seconds on average, which experts estimate will cause $71.5 billion in global losses by 2026. If you don’t strategize accordingly, your organization will face noncompliance fines, data corruption, and costly downtime.

Even though ransomware has been around for ages, you shouldn’t underestimate it — technological advances like AI have made it easier for cybercriminals to launch this kind of cyberattack. As a result, promptly addressing this trend is vital for keeping your organization secure.

3. Prolonged skills shortage

IT teams have long dealt with an industrywide labor shortage. Unsurprisingly, it seems this trend will continue into 2024. One study revealed around 95% of cybersecurity professionals believe their industry’s skill scarcity has remained a pain point in past years.

The same study found that 44% of professionals feel confident that the lack of skill has only worsened. Frankly, they’re not wrong — as scarcity-driven issues drive IT professionals to different industries and older workers retire, the gap grows.

Since many IT teams have dealt with high workloads for years, you don’t have to imagine how it impacts cybersecurity. A lack of skilled workers leads to critical gaps and human error, resulting in more successful attacks. Heading into 2024, cybersecurity incidents caused by the labor shortage remain among the top network security trends.

4. Cybersecurity fatigue uptick

Notably, 2023 was an exceptional year for rapid technological advancement. Unfortunately, while every new development brought benefits, they also caused frustration. Growing security tech stacks containing tools like multifactor authentication (MFA) and zero trust access controls put more pressure on teams to evolve at an unsustainable pace.

Most IT professionals have seen how this fatigue has impacted their enterprise. In fact, 51% of cybersecurity decision-makers believe high alert volumes consistently overwhelm their teams. Since workers spend too much time unintentionally chasing false positives, they miss critical notifications and lose motivation.

When an IT team abandons crucial tools because they feel overburdened, their organization’s network security weakens substantially. However, workers often feel they have no other choice because they can’t learn and manage each new technology at the rate it advances.

Since the industrywide skill shortage remains one of the more pressing network security trends, it should come as no surprise that cybersecurity fatigue also stands out. Consistently overwhelming workloads and the ever-evolving nature of cybersecurity should be one of your chief concerns as you head into the new year. A robust defensive strategy against these problems is crucial.

5. Widespread generative AI use

AI took the world by storm in 2023. Generative models stood out as one of the top trending technologies. Nearly 55% of organizations already utilize it to some extent because of its versatility and power. Further, 18.2% plan to invest more in it in 2024.

You’d be right to assume the widespread adoption of this technology is inevitable. After all, it offers automation and insights. Proper implementation will strengthen your network security and support your team as they deal with increasing volumes of cybersecurity incidents.

Positives aside, generative AI has also become a valuable tool for cybercriminals. It aids them in social engineering attacks, helping them tell convincing narratives and pose as real people. This trend was firm in 2023, so it stands to reason that 2024 will be no different.

As you head into 2024, a defense against these kinds of attacks and scams is paramount. Although AI makes an incredibly powerful ally, it also offers threat actors the same advantages. Navigating this trend is of the utmost importance if you want to maintain network security in the new year.

6. Remote work security gaps

Although the remote work trend primarily began years ago in response to COVID-19, it has shown no signs of slowing down. Many IT professionals discovered they could do their jobs just as effectively from the comfort of their own homes. Unfortunately, security protocols haven’t kept pace alongside them.

People who work from home have little oversight. As a result, they are often unintentionally lax with security protocols, raising the chance of a cyberattack. Around 95% of cybersecurity incidents are caused by human error. Even if you have faith in your team, something as small as an unsecured smart device could become an entry point for cybercriminals.

Since remote work has embedded itself as an industry staple, it must be one of the top network security trends leaders face in the months ahead. They must strategize to adequately address potential gaps.

7. Third-party attacks

Third-party attacks are one of the most pressing network security trends — even if (or because) many organizations are oblivious to the danger. One study discovered nearly 50% of organizations experienced a cybersecurity incident in 2022 because of their vendors.

Moreover, the same study found that 48% of organizations are unaware of their vendors’ levels of network access. Because they work with many third parties simultaneously, their overly complex relationships become difficult to navigate and regulate.

Whether IT professionals use vendors for cloud computing or data analytics, they operate on trust. Unfortunately, one of the latest industry trends revolves around a lack of third-party compliance. Poor oversight leads to critical security gaps, substantially raising the chance of network intrusions and cyberattacks.

Bottom line: Stay ahead of network security trends — or fall behind

The above network security trends will substantially impact IT departments across nearly all industries heading into 2024. Fortunately, your awareness of them gives your enterprise a crucial advantage. Identifying their role in your team and strategizing accordingly will help you stay one step ahead of threat actors.

Get more information on some of the top network security trends of 2024:

• Understand IoT security — and the best IoT security companies.
• Your complete guide to ransomware defense — and the best protection and recovery tools.
• Get started on AI-based network automation.
• Secure your remote workers with these tips and tools.

The post Top 7 Network Security Trends Heading into 2024 appeared first on Enterprise Networking Planet.

The cloud has been gaining popularity throughout every industry for the last several years. In broad terms, cloud computing provides data mobility and analysis, typically using remote servers rather than on-premises computational infrastructure.

What is cloud supply chain management?

Cloud supply chain management encompasses the tools, infrastructures, and processes that allow people to oversee the movement of goods by relying on cloud computing offerings rather than on-premise equipment. This enables them to enter and access this data from anywhere, and provide redundancy with cloud backups — meaning supply chain data is always available, current, and backed up against loss, damage, or theft.

However, company decision-makers usually don’t go all-in with cloud products when managing their supply chains. They want evidence of a return on investment (ROI) before increasing budgets for more cloud services.

Top 3 configurations of cloud services that support supply chains

Cloud configurations for supply chain professionals are usually one of three types:

• Software-as-a-service (SaaS) tools are hosted and distributed by third-party providers. Customers can access them without making infrastructure changes. Software updates and maintenance also occur in the background automatically.
• Infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS) is another business model through which logistics and supply chain companies adopt cloud-based data management and data analysis technologies. This infrastructure might include internet of things (IoT) sensors, virtual machines, networking technology, and energy-management infrastructure.
• Platform-as-a-service (PasS) is useful in cases where app developers need a stable, cloud-based development environment in which to test cloud services — and especially to test them for cross-compatibility with existing products and application programming interfaces (APIs). This is useful in supply chain management, where partners may use a panoply of products from various vendors.

No matter which management and enterprise-planning workflows companies select to operate in cloud environments, such activities may take place on private clouds or public clouds. A combination of these is known as a hybrid cloud model.

7 use cases of cloud computing in the supply chain

Supply chain professionals have numerous reasons to get involved with cloud computing to support current and future business needs. Here are seven of the most common use cases.

1. Managing logistics

Maintaining a responsive and effective supply chain requires a strong grasp of logistical efficiency. While human beings once managed each discrete detail in logistics, cloud computing and big-data analysis now provide manifold opportunities to streamline or automate some of the most important logistical tasks within the supply chain.

Here are just some of the logistics-related management capabilities provided by cloud data and computing:

• Managing the movement and allocation of trucks and other vehicles.
• Sequencing and prioritizing new orders.
• Automatically generating or updating supply or shipping routes to eliminate delays.
• Automatically filling out compliance documents, invoices, receipts, and more.

The deployment of cloud technologies provides the ability for various departments and stakeholders to compare and combine data to create more synergistic workflows and collaborate more effectively.

2. Automating inventory management

Inventory management becomes much more straightforward when people find ways to automate some of the most time-consuming tasks. Cloud tools make that possible. Someone might set up an interface to automatically reorder a product once it reaches a specific stock level. Another possibility is to link cloud products to connected sensors so you can see the exact location of in-transit parcels.

Inventory management automation is particularly helpful during high-demand periods, such as the holiday season. Customers will understandably become upset if they shop online or arrive at stores and find products are out of stock. Bringing automation to existing inventory management processes can significantly reduce such instances, making businesses more responsive to customer needs.

3. Making future plans and predictions

Forecasting and making predictions for what the future may hold is one of the most important functions within supply-chain management. The ability to anticipate future sales enables the ability to alter processes and scale departments to ensure supply matches demand.

Cloud computing is essential for effective enterprise planning and logistical forecasting. The cloud collects and organizes data from disparate sources to create a more full awareness of current and future situations. These sources might include:

• Customer service channels.
• Online sales portals.
• Retail locations.
• Wholesale suppliers.

With the cloud unifying these data streams, logistics professionals can engage in deep analysis and make accurate forecasts for the future based on current trends.

Cloud-based data analysis is the reason major pharmaceutical companies like Bayer are able to keep critical and seasonal medications in stock reliably throughout the country year-round. The right technologies can provide several months of forecasting and prediction data to keep ahead of seasonal surges and even unpredictable changes in local demand patterns.

4. Improving procurement and sourcing

Supply chain disruptions can cause profits to drop by more than 107%, making it necessary to actively prevent such circumstances. Supply chain managers should start by diversifying their procurement and sourcing strategies. Cloud computing tools can assist them by tracking communications, contracts, and other information.

Some companies must maintain relationships with hundreds or thousands of providers of finished goods or raw materials. Cloud computing provides the means to digitize the sourcing and procurement processes. The potential benefits include:

• Facilitates faster communication between partners.
• Provides a single source of truth to eliminate errors and unnecessary purchases.
• Provides the potential to automate vendor changeovers based on current supplies.
• Automatically generates invoices, custody documents, and databases for traceability compliance.

Many cloud tools also track expenditures, helping supply chain professionals see whether what they’re paying for specific raw goods is within market rates. Cloud tools can also remove many administrative bottlenecks that slow the procurement process. Additionally, a user may rely on them to get breakdowns of which products come from certain global regions, encouraging expanded supplier networks.

Accessibility is the name of the game here: accessibility, via the cloud, of all the documentation and ongoing data-gathering that makes for a harmonious supply chain ecosystem. Supply chain coordination and financing can be complex beasts — and some companies might need the speed, efficiency, and organization the cloud provides to enable reverse factoring and other types of cash-flow-boosting financing options.

5. Managing maintenance and equipment breakdowns

One of the more popular IaaS product types involves the automation of maintenance tasks.

Breakdowns of delivery trucks, assembly lines, or other critical assets can cause far-reaching supply chain problems. Cloud platforms can minimize those issues.

Cloud computing gives supply-chain companies the ability to unite their physical infrastructure in a cloud-based maintenance dashboard. This includes building systems, material-handling mechanisms like conveyors and pallet trucks, and energy or water systems.

Cloud maintenance platforms using hardware sensors and software intelligence constantly monitor mechanical assets for leaks, pressure drops, and temperature or vibration anomalies, saving manufacturers millions of dollars per year.

Examples abound — in pipe and tire manufacturing, the chemical industry, and throughout the supply chain — of technology adopters boosting the ROI for their machines. This is an important advantage given their expense. An additional benefit: eliminating product defects that result from faulty or failing equipment.

6. Expanding collaboration opportunities

One of the reasons cloud computing initially gained popularity is that it allows people to work together and get things done more efficiently despite geographical boundaries. Relatedly, these tools support remote and hybrid work environments.

A 2022 study of supply chain leaders revealed that 62% were allocating resources for communication and policy tools to cultivate in-person and remote relationships. It’s easy to imagine how workflows improve when people can instantly see supply chain statistics, shipment locations and other details from wherever they are.

7. Supporting multisite visibility

Leaders must compare performance across sites and identify potential problems early as modern supply chains grow larger. Cloud tools enable that aim, giving authorized parties real-time access to see whether specific warehouses or suppliers meet key performance indicators.

Managers may even get camera feeds, helping them determine if employees at specific facilities regularly engage in risky behaviors that could attract regulatory attention. Getting information at any time significantly reduces the chances of problems getting out of control before leaders can tackle them.

Advantages of cloud supply chain management

Cloud supply chain management solutions are seeing widespread adoption for a reason — or rather, several reasons, including scalability, sustainability, and cost efficiency.

Scalability is a major advantage of operating a supply chain in the cloud. The elastic nature of the cloud means you can work with a provider and scale resource usage up or down as necessary, remaining flexible as marketplace conditions change.

Using the cloud to run a supply chain can also support sustainability goals. According to a 2022 survey of supply chain executives, respondents rated sustainability as their third biggest challenge shaping the next few years. Additionally, 56% said they were already working with hybrid cloud solutions. Cloud analytics can show where companies are doing well in pursuing sustainable operations and where efforts fall short.

People can also expect to gain cost-related efficiencies when investing in cloud computing. Those benefits typically occur because providers accommodate many customer needs in the background, removing the need for clients to make on-site upgrades.

Disadvantages of cloud supply chain management

Cloud-based supply chain tools also have some potential downsides. Many users experience a learning curve, mainly if they’ve never used them. Providing people ample time to get to know a program minimizes challenges.

Reduced cybersecurity is another possibility associated with cloud tools — but only if they aren’t properly secured. Cybercriminals often strategically plan attacks to cause the most disruption. The cloud could provide them with the necessary entry points. Company IT teams should follow cybersecurity frameworks that help them create best practices. A well-managed cloud platform is ultimately more secure than a traditional database.

Finally, cloud customers may realize it’s harder than expected to find solutions with all their essential features. That’s more likely if a company already relies on other tech products, meaning supply chain leaders must find compatible options. Creating a list of must-have features will help organizations narrow their choices.

Bottom line: Why adopt the cloud across the supply chain?

There is a reason why IaaS and PaaS are growing at a rapid rate: this family of technologies has the potential to add significant value to any supply chain organization. Interested CEOs, CTOs, and entrepreneurs enjoy the automation, real-time intelligence, scalability, speed, and resource-efficiency that cloud computing provides.

When it’s at its best, the cloud is a tool that allows humans to spend their time on creative and innovative work rather than babysitting mundane, repetitive processes. With the cloud, supply chain companies and others can build something better and deliver the best service possible.

Get to know some of the best cloud service providers and platforms to help you choose the right one for your supply chain management needs.

The post Cloud Supply Chain Management: Benefits and Use Cases appeared first on Enterprise Networking Planet.

Thanks to these features, network segmentation is an increasingly popular technique to give network managers more control over network traffic.

However, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to start. Here are the basics of network segmentation, from its prime use cases to specific tools and techniques to build your strategy.

Why is network segmentation needed?

You might want to employ network segmentation for several reasons, from improved functionality to heightened security. The most common is customized cybersecurity for different parts of a single network.

Network segmentation provides more precise control over how traffic flows and cybersecurity are managed. This can result in a much more secure, well-organized system that performs better for individual users.

People may also want to use network segmentation for greater privacy. You can do this on your home, office, or small business system with a basic router’s guest feature.

Network segmentation is needed whenever you want to create separate space in one larger system, whether for organization, privacy, or security.

How network segmentation works

Network segmentation involves splitting a network into separate, isolated sections physically or virtually. It can be as simple as creating a guest network on a home Wi-Fi router. The process is more complicated for large organizations with large amounts of data and traffic.

Regardless of the scale involved, network segmentation generally works the same way. Additional barriers are added to limit movement and access. Users on a guest network can’t see activity on a corresponding private network and vice versa.

Each segment can have its own security protocols so higher-risk data gets more advanced protection, while low-risk information is still conveniently easy to access. Network segmentation isolates vulnerable data without impeding the system’s everyday functionality, striking a balance between security and usability.

5 steps to network segmentation

On a technical level, the process of segmenting a network varies significantly depending on the specific technology used. However, a few vital steps apply regardless of your chosen technology.

1. Map data and traffic

The first step is mapping data and traffic in the network as it currently operates. Mapping how users access information and move through your network provides a better understanding of how many segments you need and the best way to secure them.

This can be a time-consuming task, but it’s crucial for success. Fortunately, there are some excellent network mapping tools that can help you simplify the process.

2. Determine security needs

One of the best benefits of network segmentation is the ability to customize your cybersecurity protocols for different data types. Security is rarely one-size-fits-all. Using high-level protections on everything makes your system difficult to navigate for many users, while undersecuring it leaves high-risk data vulnerable.

Separate your data into groups based on risk. Determine what level of cybersecurity would be best for each type by analyzing sensitivity and how often users access it.

3. Organize segments by risk level

Use the risk-based groups to outline your network segments. Put together groups of data with similar security and accessibility needs.

For example, you’ll probably notice users access certain types significantly more than others. Everyday data, such as a customer service website or employee directory, is often low risk and requested frequently. It should go in a low-risk network segment with minimal protections so it’s convenient for users to access.

In contrast, sensitive data like customers’ financial information is too vulnerable to be exposed in a low-security segment. It should go in a separate area with high-level protection and encryption.

4. Implement segmentation

It’s time to put your network segmentation outline into action. The process for accomplishing this depends on what technology you use. Leave plenty of time to install or integrate your segmentation technology and test it afterward to ensure everything operates correctly.

5. Monitor segment security

Successful cybersecurity is all about visibility, transparency, and continuous improvement. You must carefully monitor your network after segmenting it.

Monitoring is a core part of today’s leading cybersecurity frameworks, such as the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). This security model emphasizes the importance of threat detection through continuous monitoring to ensure the highest level of security.

This is vital for ensuring your segments remain secure and keeping you aware of optimization opportunities and vulnerabilities. For instance, you might notice that a certain type of data needs stronger or less security.

3 benefits of network segmentation

Network segmentation requires time and resources, so it’s worth understanding why it’s necessary. There are several benefits, whether you have a simple small-business network or an entire data center.

1. Increased network security

Improved cybersecurity is the top benefit of network segmentation. It lets you customize security protocols with a high level of precision. The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) recommends using network segmentation to achieve the highest possible level of cybersecurity.

Customizing unique security “zones” within your network is invaluable. It can even save your data in the event of a cyberattack. Hackers that break into a segmented network are trapped in one segment. As a result, the potential damage is significantly reduced and confined to a limited subset, rather than the entire network.

2. Improved visibility

Network segmentation requires carefully mapping your data and traffic so administrators have a clearer picture of operations. It makes it easier to track which information users are accessing.

These processes improve network visibility, which is vital for ensuring effective security. Having a clear view of user traffic and understanding exactly how your system functions makes you better equipped to notice suspicious activity immediately.

3. Better user experience

Network segmentation can positively impact the user experience if implemented properly. This too can affect network security.

Surveys show at least 68% of internet users recycle the same password across multiple accounts. The most common reason for this behavior is inconvenience. Users are more likely to employ strong security measures when they are convenient to use, such as by using a password manager.

People will have a poor experience with your network if they must use the highest level of security possible. Network segmentation resolves this by allowing you to protect sensitive data while leaving customer-facing content easily accessible.

Network segmentation vs. microsegmentation

Microsegmentation applies network segmentation on a small scale with specific areas for individual apps, devices, or users. You can employ it within a larger framework.

For instance, you might need to run a certain app in a network segment that requires high accessibility and minimal protection. You can create a microsegment to give the application extra security compared to the larger area that it’s in.

Types of network segmentation

A network segmentation strategy will lean one of two ways: physical or logical. Physical segmentation primarily relies on dividing a network using hardware, whereas logical segmentation utilizes virtual methods like software and security protocols.

1. Physical segmentation

You can physically segment a network by separating data and apps onto different servers. Firewalls are also effective for physical segmentation.

This is the simplest type of network segmentation for many users, and also the most secure, since there is no chance of crossover for cyberattackers.

The most complicated part is ensuring your different server stacks aren’t interconnected. The main drawback of purely physical segmentation is that you can end up with a heavily siloed system, making it highly inconvenient for employees who need to access information across segments.

2. Logical segmentation

Logical segmentation is much more varied than physical segmentation. It can involve various technologies, including local area networks (LANs), virtual machines, hypervisors, microsegmentation, and cybersecurity protocols.

Logical network segmentation can be more complex to set up but offers more flexibility, versatility, and customization than purely physical segmentation. Most strategies employ a combination of both.

Tools used in network segmentation

Depending on your approach to network segmentation, you may use different tools, but the most common include hypervisors and other virtualization tools, access control lists (ACLs), and firewalls.

Firewalls

Firewalls are the bread and butter of network segmentation. They’re one of the foundational tools most strategies employ.

Firewalls are effective and versatile. You can place them between layers and segments to create a highly fortified network. They also let you create customized access filters from one layer to another.

Start with firewalls if you’re completely new to network segmentation. IT professionals will already be familiar with them, and they’re relatively easy to set up. Individuals can use them to segment their home or office network. Most consumer routers offer basic options and let you create a guest network with its own firewall and access rules.

Access control lists (ACLs)

ACLs, also known as allow lists, are a basic tool for identity and access management. They allow you to specify who can access different parts of your network. You define rulesets and approved users, and your network uses these to automatically enable or reject traffic.

ACLs are straightforward and highly effective. They’re a great place to start if you want to create segments based on user-specific access or one that’s only accessible to a few users, such as administrators.

Hypervisors, virtual networks and VLANs

Hypervisors, virtual networks, and virtual local area networks (VLANs) are a few of the top technologies for logical network segmentation. They involve virtually creating segments on shared physical servers.

Virtual networks and VLANs are software-defined networking technologies. They use overlays to virtually create segments at different layers of the network.

VLANs operate at the Ethernet layer. Traffic passes through the router, a network switch, and into one of numerous isolated VLANs. This creates a virtual network where traffic and data can be isolated within a shared server infrastructure.

Hypervisors are more commonly utilized to create private servers in cloud computing, but they can also be applied to network segmentation. A hypervisor is essentially a network overlay that creates virtual machines within shared computing infrastructure.

One crucial difference between hypervisors and VLANs is that hypervisors divide the computing resources. Each virtual machine is effectively its own computing environment that doesn’t share resources with others. This helps ensure every segment or virtual machine has the computing resources it needs.

Bottom line: Network segmentation for everyone

Network segmentation is an increasingly vital part of modern cybersecurity. It’s a versatile and robust way to create customized layers of security and maximize protection for vulnerable data. It’s also highly scalable, so anyone can utilize it.

Adopting network segmentation enables you to create a well-organized network fortified to defend sensitive data without compromising performance and accessibility.

Get started on segmenting your own network with one of the best network segmentation tools, designed to simplify the process for IT professionals at all experience levels.

The post What Is Network Segmentation? Definition, Benefits, and Importance appeared first on Enterprise Networking Planet.

How routers get hacked

Threat actors can hack routers in several ways, mainly through network vulnerabilities or brute force attacks. Alternatively, they can exploit built-in features like remote management or Wi-Fi Protected Setup to bypass passwords. 

They can also easily infiltrate if you’ve never updated your device’s original credentials, considering manufacturers reuse the same ones for all their products. Since they often appear in user manuals, they’re common knowledge — even amateurs can get past that security.

Most of these methods are relatively simple, heightening the risk of a cybersecurity incident. Even so, the techniques are subtle enough that most businesses won’t immediately recognize anything of concern.

Threat actors could even use your credentials to slip in unnoticed. For example, they can legitimately gain access using passwords from leaks. Your login information is likely compromised if your workplace has recently experienced a data breach or cybersecurity incident, so you should ensure that all affected employees have changed their credentials as quickly as possible.

10 signs to tell that your router has been hacked

Watch for these 10 signs to tell if threat actors have hijacked your router. If you notice multiple of them occurring simultaneously, it’s likely that you’ve been hacked.

1. Inability to log in

Sometimes, an inability to log in only points to a forgotten password or software fault. But if you know everything is in order and suddenly find yourself blocked from accessing your router, chances are hackers have changed the login credentials to keep you out.

2. Sudden slow speeds

Sudden, severe drops in connection speed can result from cyberattacks but may also indicate a hacked router. Threat actors could be using it to remotely access other devices on the network, piggybacking or leveraging it in a botnet.

3. Session hijacking

The most significant sign of a hacked router is a partial or complete loss of control. While threat actors could technically take over your computers and do substantial damage before you stop them, most prefer to be more discreet — it gives them ample time to carry out their plans.

If your staff starts noticing cursors moving or files opening themselves, you can be pretty sure you’ve been hacked.

4. Browser redirects

Browser hijacking is a sure sign of router hacking. If multiple employees simultaneously report odd, consistent redirects to the IT department, an unauthorized change to domain name system (DNS) settings has occurred.

Once a hacker gains access to a router, they can direct all workplace network traffic to a DNS server. Their goal is to get as many employees as possible to click malicious links or download malware before a security specialist identifies and fixes the issue.

5. Appearance of unknown devices

The sudden appearance of an unknown device on your network is a clear sign of router hacking. The internet protocol addresses should partially match the local device’s addresses, so you can easily spot this occurring. Ensure you’re mindful of IP spoofing. 

6. Unusual network activity

Unusual activity points to the fact that someone has infiltrated your router. For example, abnormal access times outside the business’s regular operating hours may signal an external malicious party has successfully hacked your network. 

7. Sudden increase of popups

Threat actors can inject or install malicious files, and a sudden increase in popups is a sign of router hacking. A single employee making this report may not stand out, but you should be concerned if multiple people experience the same problem simultaneously.

8. Unfamiliar downloads

A hacker can make malicious installations once they access a router. They may not go as far as outright downloading ransomware, but that scenario is possible. If many people suddenly notice new, unfamiliar programs, files or tools, you likely have a hacked router.

9. Appearance of antivirus software

The sudden appearance of unfamiliar antivirus software is a standard method hackers use to take advantage of people’s trust. Although they can move around at will once they’re in your network, they install it hoping to increase their returns.

Never trust antivirus software that appears on their computers overnight, unless IT has notified you directly of a remote installation. And in general, it’s best to avoid obscure and unproven security software, since it could be malware in anti-malware clothing. When in doubt, here’s a list of top antivirus software to ensure you’re only getting legitimate tools.

10. Message from hacker

Sometimes, a message directly from the hacker is your only sign. They likely won’t come out and say they have access to your router, considering fixing a hacked router is relatively simple. Still, you can quickly identify its origin with enough effort and patience.

How to fix a hacked router in 5 steps

Fortunately, fixing a hacked router is pretty straightforward in most cases. Here’s how to fix router hacking in only five steps.

1. Disconnect the router

Disconnecting a router from the internet prevents hackers from continuing their exploitation and further damaging your workplace. It won’t fix everything immediately but revokes their remote access and boots them out.

2. Adjust access options

You must adjust access options to reduce vulnerabilities. For example, you should disable remote management and ensure your device is Wi-Fi Protected Access 3 enabled. WPA3 is the most up-to-date security standard — offering individual device encryption — and provides excellent additional security.

3. Perform a hard reset

Go the extra mile and perform a hard reset — it lets you boot any unwanted visitors to start with a clean slate. Unless hackers had time to create a backdoor or installed malware elsewhere, it ensures they’re out.

4. Update the router password

If hackers have accessed your router through compromised credentials, update the password to prevent them from returning. Ensure it uses no string of legible text, uses various types of characters, and is long enough not to be guessable by password cracking software.

5. Update the router’s firmware

Update the router’s firmware to minimize the presence of security vulnerabilities. If this doesn’t happen automatically, you can go to your internet service provider’s website to do it manually. Remember, you’ll need to use an ethernet cable to update your router’s firmware since you can’t use the Wi-Fi it produces.

Before you turn your router back on, ensure you know the extent of the infiltration and identify what else could be infected. Make sure the DNS settings are correct and undo any leftover hacker changes.

What are the consequences of hacked routers?

There are many consequences of router hacking, including data theft, compromised systems, and concealment of other malicious activity. A hacker can use privilege escalation and file erasure to move around undetected.

Their ability to alter communications is concerning. For example, they could initiate a network snooping attack to intercept and manipulate data packets. While a passive incident typically only involves data monitoring and theft, an active one results in malicious injections and blockages.

This behavior inadvertently leads to noncompliance, potentially resulting in reduced consumer trust, lower brand perception and significant fines. A minor network intrusion can quickly become a serious concern when it has major financial and legal repercussions.

Threat actors can also leverage routers to use in distributed denial-of-service attacks. For example, Condi, a relatively new malware, uses its botnet to offer DDoS-as-a-service for anyone willing to pay. Although it’s been around since 2022, industry experts tracking its progression saw a significant increase in May 2023.

It deletes critical system binaries to survive a hard reset. While it doesn’t have persistence mechanisms — meaning a disconnect and reboot should wipe it — diagnostic attempts require a knowledgeable professional to recognize its workarounds.

Tips for avoiding network and router hacks in the future

Even though no prevention method guarantees protection, you can still drastically reduce the chances of another router hack.

• Reset passwords frequently: Frequent password resets ensure hackers cannot use stolen credentials to access a router. Change them regularly and after every cybersecurity incident.
• Keep firmware updated: Keeping devices up to date is a proven cybersecurity method. If you can’t automatically update the router, ensure you monitor releases to do it manually.
• Encrypt everything: Hackers can’t manipulate what they can’t access, so always encrypt your network, communications, and data.
• Monitor network activity: Most businesses already monitor network activity, but you could improve your current methods. Consider using artificial intelligence for rapid detection.

Simple cybersecurity additions protect against most router hacking attempts. If your business hasn’t implemented these already, ensure you do so as soon as possible to become more secure.

Bottom line: Protecting your router from hacking

Router hacking is concerningly simple. Fortunately, so is fortifying it from intruders. Ensuring your router and credentials are current keeps most amateurs out. The IT department can boost your business’s network security with the quick fixes mentioned in this guide.

Protect your perimeter from hacking by penetration testing regularly. Here are the best ethical hacking tools to test your vulnerability.

The post How to Check if Your Router Is Hacked (Plus 5 Steps to Fix It) appeared first on Enterprise Networking Planet.

This article will cover some of the common ways hackers target networks and provide some tips on what you can do to prevent those efforts.

5 common types of network threats

Knowing some frequently seen network threats is the first step in protecting against them. Here are some you must understand to tailor your defenses:

• Distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks: DDoS attacks involve using bots to flood a network with traffic and exhaust its resources, resulting in slow loading times, site malfunctions or outages.
• Phishing: Distributing fake but realistic-looking emails to convince victims to provide private information, including their passwords.
• Inside threats: Behaving in intentional or accidental ways that compromise a network while employed by the affected company.
• Ransomware: Deploying malicious software to lock down a network and demand payment from victims for file restoration.
• Outdated products: Relying on old or un-updated operating systems, applications, or other tools, potentially giving hackers vulnerabilities to exploit.

6 best practices to prevent network hacks

With so many different kinds of threats and attacks, protecting your network can feel like an impossible undertaking. While there’s no way to guarantee that nothing will get through, you can effectively solidify your defenses with these six steps.

1. Limit network access

Structure your network access policies to reflect a person’s role or another characteristic specific to them. That way, they can only see and use the files that reflect their work. Restricting access is a practical way to prevent employee errors. It can also limit the damage if a worker falls for a phishing attack and provides their password to a hacker.

A 2021 study of manufacturing workers found each one could access 27,000 files. Moreover, 40% of companies in the investigation had more than 1,000 sensitive files accessible to any employee. Those takeaways show the potentially far-reaching ramifications of having few or no worker access controls.

That said, you have to strike a balance between network security and employee productivity. If workers encounter too many obstacles when trying to access files they genuinely need, many will probably try workarounds — including borrowing passwords from their colleagues. If you’re considering implementing new access control policies or have done so recently, encourage workers to give ongoing feedback. Then, tweak your approach based on their input.

2. Keep network infrastructure devices secured

Network infrastructure devices are the components that facilitate the transfer of information that allows people to use applications, data, and services on your network. Firewalls, servers, routers, and load balancers are examples of products in this category.

Cybercriminals often target these devices because so much of an organization’s data passes through them. There are then plenty of possibilities for what they could do after successfully performing a network attack on an infrastructure device. For example, targeting a router could allow them to monitor, reroute, and block a business’s network traffic.

Protect your network devices by always changing default settings and passwords. Such information is readily available on the dark web. Keeping the devices updated with the latest security patches is vital as well. Otherwise, cybercriminals could exploit known flaws. Investing in network monitoring tools can also help cybersecurity teams spot unusual activity that could indicate a hacker has access.

3. Provide instructions for how to connect to the network safely while working remotely

Remote work is an increasingly common option for many of today’s employees. However, it also broadens the attack surface for cybercriminals. That’s especially true with workers logging into company networks at home or elsewhere.

When workers connect to corporate networks from home, ensure their routers have WPA2 or WPA3 encryption to safeguard information in transit. Ask them to set hard-to-guess passwords for their household routers, too.

Make sure remote workers know public Wi-Fi networks are not sufficiently secure against hackers. Some cybercriminals orchestrate so-called evil twin attacks. They do so by setting up fake Wi-Fi networks. Hackers can then see all the internet activities of anyone who connects to those seemingly legitimate access points.

Remote workers often want to connect from a coffee shop, library, or other public space. When they do, ask them to use VPN tools to encrypt the traffic flowing from their internet connections. They should also be careful about logging into workplace tools or accessing sensitive data from busy places, such as airports. It’s too easy for strangers to watch what they’re doing in those heavily populated locations.

4. Schedule regular cybersecurity training for employees

Cybersecurity experts often say employees are the weakest links in an organization and they could raise the company’s attack risk. However, that’s not necessarily because of malicious workers. Issues often arise because people don’t know how to recognize cyberattack attempts.

It doesn’t help that hackers specifically try to make phishing emails look as believable as possible. Teaching workers some of the telltale signs of phishing attempts is a good idea. For example, these emails often have non-personalized greetings, allowing hackers to target more people with them. The messages often urge immediate action under the threat of disastrous consequences.

Cybersecurity training must happen often and not just when someone gets hired. Hackers frequently update their network attack methods, so workers need the most current details to stay informed. The training should also cover basic but necessary best practices, such as setting unique passwords and never reusing them across websites.

5. Hire ethical hackers to look for network vulnerabilities

Worldwide cybercrime caused $16.4 billion worth of damage daily in 2021. That statistic highlights the need to treat preventive measures for your network as long-term investments. Hiring an outside expert to examine the infrastructure for weaknesses you missed is a wise move.

One way to do that is to use the services of an ethical hacker. They’ll attempt to breach a network with the owner’s permission and knowledge, then report on the identified weaknesses.

Ethical hackers are highly skilled people who understand malicious parties’ tools, methods, and mindsets. Some also find software flaws and inform the manufacturers of those issues. In 2022 alone, ethical hackers found more than 65,000 problems that way.

Using specially designed tools, ethical hackers can discover the remaining network security shortcomings, giving you time to address them before malicious parties find those issues and use them to compromise your infrastructure. Take their advice seriously and always ask questions about their findings if you need further clarification.

6. Keep website plugins updated

A July 2023 report found 71.9% of all websites use WordPress. People like building websites with WordPress because it’s a user-friendly option that doesn’t require strong web development skills. It’s also helpful that people can expand website capabilities by adding plug-ins. That suggests no matter what industry your business is in, it may have at least a few WordPress websites.

Since WordPress is so popular, hackers often exploit outdated or vulnerable plugins on the platform when orchestrating network attacks. In July 2023, cybersecurity researchers warned of a WooCommerce Payments plugin issue that could allow attackers to hack WordPress websites. The plugin has more than 600,000 active installations, giving hackers a broad base of websites to target.

The good news is developers typically create and release patches after hearing about unmitigated flaws in their tools. One of the best and easiest ways to prevent network attacks stemming from plugins is to download and install security patches as soon as they become available.

Bottom line: Keep up with your network hacking defenses

Network attacks can be catastrophic events that severely disrupt workflows, result in data loss, and require significant resources to resolve. However, these best practices will help you reduce the chances of experiencing them.

A final thing to remember is you must frequently revisit your approach to network security and ensure it’s still sufficient. New employees, additional devices, or different workplace policies could all make it necessary to make minor — or major — changes to thwart hackers.

For a comprehensive approach to network security, turn to one of the best network security companies providing a broad range of protective services.

The post How to Prevent Network Attacks From Hackers: 6 Best Practices appeared first on Enterprise Networking Planet.

Here’s a closer look at considerations for creating a secure and reliable 5G network.

5G security architecture

5G network security architecture relates to the technologies and techniques required to meet a company or user’s performance needs while maintaining appropriate security.

Network security

One solution IT professionals often explore when planning their network security architectures is network slicing. This approach creates virtualized networks that companies or other customers use for traffic. This type of segmentation simplifies scalability and could limit cyberattack ramifications.

In addition to securing each segment, people must prioritize 5G security at the network’s core. Considering how to authenticate each user and their respective sessions is a good starting point.

Device and hardware security

From there, those overseeing network security must consider device-level safeguards. Monitoring tools can protect the infrastructure from widespread attacks. Some products use artificial intelligence (AI) to assess what constitutes normal traffic and flag administrators when the activity seems strange. 

Security architecture for the 5G network also involves keeping hardware and other physical assets safe from unauthorized access. 5G towers have been frequent vandalism targets over the last several years. People who don’t understand the technology or believe it’s dangerous are often the perpetrators.

Scaling security

5G architecture cannot be built with a one-and-done approach. An initial plan is essential, but people must always treat those intentions as subject to change over time. Companies that scale their networks will almost certainly strengthen their security architecture. Relatedly, people should consider if new products for improving 5G architectures could improve their cyberattack preparedness.

Security features of 5G networks

Securing the 5G network requires taking a layered approach to stop intrusions. Some optimal features include next-generation access control, vendor vetting, ongoing training, and regular software updates.

Next-generation access control

Although many networks still use traditional passwords for access control, forward-thinking organizations have begun exploring other options. After all, many people reuse their passwords or set ones that are easy for others to guess.

Improved options, such as multifactor authentication (MFA) and role-based access control, restrict hackers’ potential reach as well as guarding against internal threats. They also limit how many files or other content authorized users can see on the network.

Vendor vetting

Maintaining a strong 5G network means determining whether the vendors you work with follow cybersecurity best practices. That’s vital if a 5G vendor handles any of your company’s data.

The important role of vendors in 5G network security is why the European Union has recommended that network operators restrict or prohibit dealings with high-risk suppliers. Taking the time to ask relevant questions and hold vendors accountable can reduce risks for everyone involved.

Ongoing 5G security training

Cybersecurity experts often say that a workplace’s employees are among the weakest links in protecting against cyberattacks. That’s due to numerous reasons. One issue is that people may become frustrated and exhausted if their companies have too many cybersecurity rules to follow. People at all levels of the organization must understand the vital roles they play in keeping the business safe from attacks.

Equipping the workforce requires providing periodic training people can easily apply in their everyday lives and duties. 5G applications are still in the early stages. Thus, as cybersecurity experts and others learn more, they’ll likely have other network safeguards to suggest. That provides great opportunities to renew and refresh employee training on both old and new security concepts.

Regular software updates

Even though 5G networks are still relatively new, many people use tried-and-true options to stay protected. For example, they may install anti-malware tools on their 5G-equipped phones. Relatedly, an organization may use security dashboards that allow network administrators to see all devices connected at any given time and who’s using them. 

However, these tools can only work as expected when they’re updated. Cybercriminals often use software vulnerabilities as entry points to the wider network. Plus, as vendors become aware of security flaws, they usually release security patches to address them. Outdated software causes users to miss out on the associated protections of newer offerings. 

Challenges and risks of 5G security

Even people’s best efforts to keep 5G networks secure often come with some pitfalls. Some of the biggest challenges and risks that can occur when managing one of these new networks include larger attack surfaces, the new realities of remote work, lack of general understanding, and the inevitable learning curve that comes with it.

A larger attack surface

A Statista report estimates 5.9 billion mobile 5G subscriptions active by 2027. That forecast highlights why many cybersecurity experts warn that the 5G network will provide more areas for hackers to target.

Many industrial decision-makers view the 5G network as essential to their mid- and long-term plans. Cybercriminals love wreaking as much havoc as possible during each attack orchestrated. With everything from cars to corporate quality control systems running on the 5G network, it’s understandable that perpetrators will increasingly target it.

The long-term shift to remote work

The COVID-19 pandemic required many workers to clock in from home for the first time. However, as time passed, many corporate leaders realized there was no need for a swift or complete return to the office once the public health situation became safe enough to warrant it. They often realized people could get as much or more work done remotely and were happier with such arrangements.

However, the remote working environment does require a proactive cybersecurity stance. It can be harder for security teams to verify employees follow best practices and update their devices. Although many aspects of 5G facilitate remote working, others introduce new distributed workforce risks.

A lack of understanding about 5G’s capabilities

If you’ve visited a cellular phone provider’s website or shop lately, you’ve undoubtedly seen 5G-related advertising. However, a 2022 Deloitte study suggests those providers must do more to help customers embrace the 5G network. Two-thirds of research participants said they’d like to know more about what 5G can do. Most admitted they hadn’t seen revolutionary applications enabled by the technology.

Many also said they did the same things on the 5G network as on 4G. That lack of differentiation poses potential network security risks. If people treat 5G as something already familiar, they may be less attuned to safety precautions while using the network.

The inevitable learning curve

Another 5G network security risk stems from how everyone is still learning about the best ways to protect their infrastructure — and which methods hackers will try to infiltrate it. A Nokia representative recently identified security as the top concern for anyone establishing a 5G network. Best practices will keep evolving as people learn more about risks and how to reduce them.

Others have raised concerns about how misconfigurations could increase the risks associated with 5G networks. People can reduce such problems by hiring professionals with strong network security and architecture backgrounds. Still, mistakes are always possible.

Who is responsible for securing 5G networks?

Network security is a responsibility shared among multiple parties, including:

• Regulatory and standards-creation authorities
• Telecommunications operators
• Security vendors
• Individual users and businesses

All 5G operators in the United States have been the targets of hacks in 2023. That fact underscores the need for constant vigilance and ongoing collaboration between relevant parties.

Emerging trends in 5G security

It’s becoming more common for people to use advanced technologies to support 5G network security. For example, advanced algorithms can help teams triage potential threats and warn them of activity that warrants immediate attention.

Another option is to use digital twins for better 5G network planning. That approach can help people envision the effects of various decisions on security and performance.

One real-life example comes from California Polytechnic State University. A digital twin will help people understand how users benefit from the network and keep it performing well.

Tracking trends like these will help people protect networks as threats evolve.

Bottom line: Prioritizing 5G network security

5G network security must remain a priority, regardless of your architecture’s extensiveness or typical uses. This overview introduces you to some existing best practices and risks, but you must remain educated about new developments and respond to them proactively.

If you’re considering implementing a private 5G network at your organization, be sure to check out our review of the best 5G network providers for businesses.

The post What Is 5G Network Security? Architecture, Benefits, and Risks appeared first on Enterprise Networking Planet.

To help you stay on top of what’s to come, here are five of the most prominent trends affecting networking in 2023 and beyond.

1. Software-defined wide-area networking (SD-WAN) remains relevant

Many enterprises need scalable networks. The people overseeing a company’s network-related needs often choose SD-WAN to meet them. SD-WAN provides a virtualized service to link and expand network resources over geographic distances.

Although the COVID-19 pandemic caused some leaders to delay their SD-WAN rollouts, several factors suggest this is still a network trend to watch overall. A 2023 Technavio report predicts the market to show a 29.7% compound annual growth rate from 2023 to 2027. The coverage also indicated the North American market would be a significant driver, accounting for 36% of the growth during the studied period.

Cloud-based SD-WAN was another identified growth driver, particularly with many networking professionals examining how to reduce their costs while reaching the desired scalability. The report also suggested mergers and acquisitions will consolidate the SD-WAN market size.

However, a potentially smaller market will not necessarily reduce the number of new offerings established companies provide. In one example, a company is targeting smaller enterprises interested in SD-WAN. It claims entry pricing of less than $100 per site, which would understandably attract cost-conscious customers.

The Technavio report recognized the possible challenges, too, though. One was a shortage of people with SD-WAN skills, which could slow deployments. On the other hand, if SD-WAN continues to prove itself as an in-demand networking option, more professionals should feel encouraged to learn and maintain the necessary skills to show themselves as marketable to current or potential employers.

2. A bigger emphasis on internet of things (IoT) network security

There are projected to be an astounding 29.42 billion IoT devices connected by 2030. Although some of those products get used in people’s homes, many are marketed to businesses. Such offerings allow enterprises to enjoy tighter physical security, lower costs due to decreased resource usage, and more control over what happens across various sites.

However, one overlooked factor is that increased IoT usage can put a network at greater risk of cyberattacks. That’s typically because organizations lack the necessary visibility into the devices connected to their networks at any given time. Who has access to them, and for what reasons? Is a specific IoT device running the latest software, or is there a chance it’s outdated and contains vulnerabilities? Old software is a frequently seen network weakness that could compromise security.

Not being able to answer those questions could pose significant problems for a company’s network professionals. Fortunately, though, it’s becoming easier to see a network’s IoT devices and who uses them. That’s all due to specialized platforms that allow everything management-related to happen in one place.

For example, a network administrator might grant access to a specific IoT device as part of a new employee’s onboarding process. Then, they could change that access as a person’s role evolves or when the individual leaves the organization. When everything occurs from a single network management portal, network professionals have much better visibility into how and why people at the business use IoT devices.

It then becomes easier to spot unusual network traffic and take the necessary steps to investigate. Being proactive like that is an excellent way to prevent cyberattacks.

3. Digital twins improving network planning

People in the manufacturing and product design industries have used digital twins for years. These highly realistic virtualized versions of real-life assets can help product designers see the effects of certain product changes before implementing them. Many manufacturing leaders also use digital twins to plan the size of facilities before construction begins or consider where to place new equipment to best support the expected traffic flow.

However, digital twins are shaking up networking, too. People should expect the increasing use of these tools throughout the rest of this year and into the foreseeable future. One recent trial of a digital twin for a Chinese wireless network included the infrastructure and application performance aspects. Data from the test showed the digital twin offered 90% accuracy when compared against the real network.

This experiment concerned testing certain networks for the suitability of extended reality (XR) service. It involved more than 70 locations containing 150 5G network base stations.

Forward Networks also operates in this space, offering digital twin tools for better enterprise network management. It recently raised $50 million in a Series D funding round. The company will reportedly use the funds to further its research and development and expand its customer base.

The company’s digital twins assist with the planning of new networks and the maintenance of existing ones. People can use them to improve their understanding of network performance and the network’s security posture.

Many current clients use the digital twins to ensure site reliability. Keeping websites running smoothly continues to be important, particularly as more sites deal with increased traffic from visitors around the world.

4. AI-based network management is booming

Artificial intelligence (AI) has reshaped industries ranging from aviation to agriculture. It also allows companies to streamline their workflows. For example, risk management systems can reduce human errors, increasing the chances of successful audits. Many risk management programs use AI and other technologies to automate some steps, flagging potential problems and letting people act on them before it’s too late. It’s easy to see AI’s ongoing influence on networking, too.

Some newer networking products are specifically designed for companies running large AI workloads. One such option can connect up to 32,000 GPUs to one AI cluster for improved load balancing.

Applying AI to network management also provides many benefits. For example, people can eliminate or greatly reduce the time spent on manual investigations of potential problems. Many AI tools learn what constitutes expected network activity, then flag anything outside those parameters. They can also triage issues, helping network administrators and other professionals know what to tackle first.

Enhanced user experiences are another benefit of organizations using AI for networking needs. That’s because well-trained algorithms can often spot problems before they cause problems that users notice. That helps network professionals become more proactive rather than reactive.

5. Next-generation connectivity keeps ramping up

Next-generation connectivity is an umbrella term that loosely concerns all the collective efforts to prepare organizations for the future. That might mean modernizing the physical infrastructure or deploying innovations that help an organization make the most of the 5G network.

One recent project involved Philadelphia’s Arlen Specter U.S. Squash Center. That facility embraces next-generation connectivity with cloud-based telecommunications, a private 5G network, and enterprise-grade IoT solutions.

The center has eight 13-foot digital video walls. Its owners intend to take advantage of the facilities’ low-latency technologies by livestreaming every event occurring on the various courts. Additionally, each player can record and analyze their matches, uncovering the aspects that support continuous improvement.

Analysts also believe next-generation Wi-Fi will improve how households capitalize on smart home technologies. When people have reliable coverage throughout their homes, they’ll feel more confident about trying out the latest technologies and building upon any smart home products they already use and love.

Bottom line: Staying on top of network trends

These five networking trends are among those to watch over the next several months and years. Now is an excellent time for anyone working in or studying networking to begin thinking about how they might implement some of them into their workflows. Being open to how these trends might affect your industry will help you and your team remain knowledgeable and responsive — and not be left playing catch-up to your competitors.

Here are 10 network management best practices to keep your network moving efficiently. Thinking about switching to private 5G? Here are eight issues to prepare for to ensure a smooth transition.

The post 5 Top Networking Trends of 2023 and Beyond appeared first on Enterprise Networking Planet.

The unified communications-as-a-service (UCaaS) market will evolve as businesses’ needs shift. Understanding these changes early on can help you make the most informed decisions about this technology and how to capitalize on it. 

Here are seven UC market trends to watch in 2023 and beyond.

1. AI steals the spotlight

As in many industries, artificial intelligence (AI) is the most prominent new development in UCaaS. The massive success of ChatGPT — now the fastest-growing internet app in history — has set an unprecedented standard for what language models can do. Businesses will undoubtedly look to integrate similar features into their communication platforms in the wake of this trend.

Natural language processing (NLP) models like ChatGPT automate many communications functions. They can generate customer outreach emails, answer basic queries through chatbots, suggest edits to internal copy and more. UCaaS platforms that offer these features could save businesses considerable time and reduce many errors.

Other AI applications in UCaaS include automated note-taking during meetings, converting voice to text, prioritizing emails by urgency, and summarizing long messages. Features like these will make UCaaS more versatile and helpful than ever, though you should recognize that early examples may be imperfect, as ChatGPT’s inaccuracies highlight.

2. A shift to the cloud

Another unified communications trend to watch is the shift to the cloud. This transition has been happening across all software categories for a while, but it’s now reaching a turning point. The cloud is slowly accounting for more of overall IT spending as on-premise’s share drops, finally surpassing on-prem expenditures by 2025, according to Gartner.

This shift is significant for UCaaS for a couple of reasons. First, it means that legacy aspects of some unified communications packages are falling out of favor. Many solutions include voice-over-internet-protocol (VoIP) and other hardware-based channels, but these are becoming less of a selling point and more of an unnecessary expense.

The most promising UCaaS solutions for 2023 and beyond focus on mobility and the cloud. Mobile-friendly platforms, cloud-native software, and fewer hardware-centric options will offer the most relevant advantages to modern businesses.

3. Integration and consolidation

Relatedly to the last point, it will become increasingly important for UCaaS packages to offer more integrations with other systems. The widespread shift to the cloud is partly due to a push to consolidate tech spending instead of paying for multiple individual solutions. UCaaS already offers consolidation of communications channels, but it should also integrate with other business functions.

Organizations today use 110 different SaaS apps on average. They could incur unnecessarily high expenses if UCaaS can’t integrate with at least a few of these other solutions. A communications platform that doesn’t work seamlessly with your existing infrastructure will likely cause more miscommunication and inefficiency than it resolves, rendering it ineffective.

UCaaS in 2023 must integrate with email, customer relationship management (CRM) tools, HR software, and other core business functions. For vendors, this means developing platforms that foster this connectivity. Businesses using UCaaS should look closely at what integrations a platform offers before paying for it.

4. Growing emphasis on cybersecurity

As in every industry, cybersecurity is another growing concern for unified communications. Business communication becomes more vulnerable to cybercrime as digital channels like email, instant messaging, and the cloud become more prominent. That will be a key issue for vendors and users as awareness around cyberattacks and their cost grows.

Bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policies represent the biggest cybersecurity concern with UCaaS in 2023. Roughly 72% of businesses today either have a BYOD policy or plan to implement one, and many UCaaS platforms are shifting to accommodate this trend. However, securing work communications on a device level is extremely challenging, so application-side controls must meet higher standards.

UCaaS solutions must include strong identity and access management (IAM) controls to verify users. Businesses using these platforms should also enact the principle of least privilege to minimize lateral movement and data leakage. Any systems that don’t support this level of security simply aren’t worth the investment.

5. Simulated reality grows slowly 

Over the past few years, many discussions around UC trends have centered on virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). These technologies will likely expand, but it’s important to recognize that this growth may be slower than people have anticipated.

CEOs spend 61% of their time in face-to-face meetings and 24% on electronic communication, so combining the two makes sense. Apple’s recent release of a business-grade mixed reality headset may also bring new life into the simulated reality market. Consequently, UCaaS platforms that accommodate VR and AR could become a more viable solution.

However, significant roadblocks will slow this growth. VR and AR equipment prices are still high, and third-party software support is minimal. More UCaaS integration could help offset that, but simulated reality tech will still likely cause a slight bump in the market, not disrupt it entirely.

6. User-friendliness becomes essential

As the UC market continues to develop it brings with it a growing need for user-friendly interfaces. Tech talent is becoming increasingly difficult to find, so you need a solution that’s easy to learn. UCaaS providers should accommodate this need if they want to remain competitive.

A good user interface is about more than just efficiency. Employees looking for easier alternatives to authorized apps is a leading cause of shadow IT, a pressing security issue. UC solutions with a steep learning curve or that don’t fit in with what teams already use could lead employees to use unsanctioned tools, creating security gaps.

Companies looking for a UCaaS system in the coming year should prioritize usability in light of these concerns. Vendors should likewise emphasize intuitive controls and minimal upkeep as key selling points.

7. 5G and NTNs open new opportunities

As the year progresses, the UCaaS market could also expand with growing 5G networks. These faster, higher-bandwidth systems offer the ideal platform for UCaaS solutions aimed at hybrid and remote workforces. Now that mid-band 5G coverage is available to roughly 80% of the U.S., the technology may finally be coming of age, too.

Non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) could take this opportunity further. These satellite-based systems can expand 5G’s speeds to more remote areas, making UCaaS platforms more accessible to dispersed workforces. While this technology is still in its infancy, more mobile carriers are developing NTN solutions, promising growth in the future.

Both UC users and vendors should take note of this shift. Look for UCaaS vendors starting to branch into 5G and NTN solutions if you have a highly dispersed remote workforce, as they’ll offer more relevant support. Vendors should look into integrating this technology to meet the needs of tomorrow’s market.

Bottom line: An increasing — and increasingly competitive — UC market

The unified communications market will grow throughout 2023, regardless of what specific trends or technologies emerge. Companies that want to utilize its full potential must learn what changes will have the most significant impact over the next few years.

These seven trends are some of the most substantial shifts that will likely drive the market in 2023 and beyond. Keeping these in mind when developing or researching UCaaS solutions will help you make the most of this powerful technology.

If you’re looking for a new unified communications service, we identified the best UCaaS companies pushing the technology into the new era.

The post 7 Unified Communications Market Trends for 2023 appeared first on Enterprise Networking Planet.

How scareware works

Scareware generally presents as popup advertisements featuring wording and graphics meant to shock people and cause concern. The content might say their device has viruses on it or will experience a critical failure unless the reader acts immediately.

Because the warning is so alarming, people are more likely to click on the pop-up content without thinking.

Once they do that, they’ll land on a malicious website and get guided through actions that make it easier for cybercriminals to begin the infection process. Sometimes, people unknowingly download malware to their computers or phones just by clicking on the popup content to try to close it.

In other cases, cybercriminals purchase domains that are very close to the spellings of popular, genuine websites. When someone accidentally mistypes the intended URL, they are driven to the “evil twin” site instead, where they are shown a scareware message. They may be so surprised by the alleged device problems that they don’t even notice they typed in the wrong URL.

Signs of scareware

Some scareware functions as a wholly one-sided exchange. A victim sees a warning of a computer virus or similar problem, then clicks on the content to fix the issue. At that point, they get sent to another website — if malware doesn’t start immediately downloading onto their computer.

Scareware content often features exclamation marks, caution symbols, flashing graphics, and other characteristics to make people take notice and become frightened. Cybercriminals purposefully make the banners intrusive and annoying, hoping that people will hurriedly click on them, either out of fright or simply to get rid of them and continue browsing.

Scareware also frequently contains the names of products that will supposedly fix the problem. A banner might read, “Warning: Your computer has two trojan viruses. Click here to remove them with Security Toolkit XLT.”

Victims are often so caught up in the moment that they don’t take the time to research whether that program exists. (Spoiler: It doesn’t.)

Scareware attacks spanning multiple parties

Sometimes, however, the scareware attack involves people talking to scammers. In one case, a woman named Deborah had worked hard for decades and was preparing to retire. She typed what she thought was her bank’s URL into the browser’s address bar.

Unfortunately, she made a mistake and soon saw a warning message that her computer was infected, and she needed to contact a tech support representative right away.

Deborah called the provided number and began speaking to someone who seemed to be a tech support specialist. That person told her he needed access to her computer to remedy the problem. Plus, she had to download and install specialized software.

Once the representative had access, they searched her computer and confirmed the supposed virus had also compromised her bank account. The scam escalated, and the tech support person connected her to another individual from the bank’s fraud department.

That individual recommended that she transfer all her money into another specific account in order to protect it. Then, the fraud specialist said her retirement account was also affected by the original computer virus but connected her to a government tax agent to help.

That person, too, recommended that Deborah cash in her savings and move them to another account. They assured her that doing so would prevent the criminals from accessing it.

The problem, as you’ve no doubt already guessed, was that the tech support representative, the fraud specialist and the government tax agent were all scammers posing as those authority figures.

How do you prevent a scareware attack?

Being cautious is one of the most effective and simplest ways to prevent a scareware attack. These efforts aim to make people respond without thinking. They emphasize urgency, insisting that the problem will worsen if those affected don’t act immediately. So, the best thing people can do is think before acting.

Scareware is similar to malvertising. The latter involves concealing malware in an internet advertisement. One of the issues is that cybercriminals can purchase ad space on legitimate sites. They can then place infected ads there. That’s why one of the preventive measures associated with malvertising is to use ad-blocking software.

Scareware works a bit differently, but people can install antivirus software to make themselves less vulnerable. Besides getting that software installed, users must ensure they keep it updated. Otherwise, whatever tools they’ve purchased will be less likely to recognize the newest scareware or other threats.

4 steps of scareware removal

Removing scareware can be difficult, and people may need professional help. However, here are some starting points to try.

1. Check the device for unusual programs

Users should begin by going to the Applications folder on their computer or their phone’s app settings and looking for unexpected programs. You may want to research some of the most common names for known scareware, too.

2. Remove strange programs if possible

Many scareware programs become even more invasive once people attempt to remove them. Users may find their screen so filled with popup messages that they can’t close them fast enough.

However, you should at least try removing the programs from your devices before proceeding, either with the OS’s native app removal tool or a dedicated antivirus program.

3. Verify that antivirus software is still working

Many types of scareware disable antivirus tools. Doing that allows them to do more damage undetected and gain permissions that antivirus programs would otherwise prevent.

That’s why people should launch their antivirus programs and ensure all settings are enabled as expected. If not, you should turn them back on again. Now is also a great time to see if the antivirus tool needs updating.

4. Get professional help if needed

The first three steps above are sometimes sufficient for removing scareware from a system. Otherwise, users or their IT teams should contact a cybersecurity expert for further assistance.  In more extreme cases, that person may advise factory resetting the device.

Scareware recovery

The first part of recovering from scareware involves users understanding that their computer has a genuine problem. It’s not the issue the popup message warns about, but the scareware has a virus at its root.

Scareware messages often have a payment aspect. For example, people may get prompted to enter their credit card number before downloading software that’s supposed to fix their computer problem.

Anyone who provided payment details when responding to a scareware message should assume hackers have compromised their bank accounts or credit cards. The first step is to contact the bank or card issuer to explain the problem and prevent unauthorized withdrawals.

You should also report the event to the authorities, both for your own records and to help with any possible law enforcement efforts to curtail future attacks.

After removing scareware yourself, with your IT team, or with further professional help, you should ensure your device’s OS is up to date, and all software is current. Cybercriminals often exploit security vulnerabilities in older systems.

Finally, users should be more aware of how they browse the web and which habits could make them more vulnerable to scareware attacks. For example, the next time you see an intrusive popup ad, the best approach is to close the whole tab or window that contains it rather than clicking anywhere within the advertisement.

Also, when doing something like online banking, you should either access a bookmarked page or dedicated app, or click on a link inside official banking correspondence. That way, there’s no risk of mistyping a web address and landing on a page set up for scareware.

Ransomware vs. scareware

Although ransomware and scareware have similar names, they have different approaches and effects on victims. Ransomware locks down computers or entire systems and demands that the affected parties pay specified amounts to fix the problem.

Statistics show a 1,885% ransomware attack rise over five years. That staggering takeaway emphasizes that this type of cyberattack is extremely prevalent.

However, paying the ransom only sometimes fixes the problem. People might get some or all of the data back, but their payments could be fruitless. Moreover, paying the ransom is only part of the associated costs. A 2023 Sophos report showed the mean recovery cost was $1.82 million, excluding ransom expenses.

Bottom line: Guarding against scareware

Scareware makes people act by capitalizing on fear, overwhelm, and urgency. It affects mobile devices as well as computers, and the theme is typically that the targeted individual has a device issue requiring immediate attention.

People can avoid scareware by keeping their antivirus tools, operating systems, and software updated. Using bookmarked pages when relevant instead of typing in URLs can also prevent them from unwittingly landing on scareware pages.

One of the most effective ways to protect yourself and your network from scareware and other malware is to use reliable antivirus software. To help sort through the options, we reviewed the best antivirus tools available.

You should also make sure you are running effective firewall software.

The post What Is Scareware? Definition, Examples, & Prevention appeared first on Enterprise Networking Planet.