The cybersecurity landscape on college campuses is more critical than ever as universities work to protect students’ personal information in an era of rampant cyberattacks.

As these breaches can have far-reaching consequences for individuals and institutions alike, let’s explore some of the challenges as well as measures that can prevent cyberattacks.

Cyberattacks have become an ever-present threat to businesses of all sizes, and small businesses are particularly vulnerable. Understanding why this is the case and how to defend against these attacks is crucial for any small business owner.

Let’s start with a few primary reasons why small businesses are targets.

Phishing is a common and effective method of defrauding businesses and individuals. Cyber criminals send billions of phishing emails each day to trick people into downloading malicious software or providing personal or financial information.

If your organization has experienced a ransomware attack recently, you have plenty of company. If not, then count yourself lucky.

Eighty-five percent of organizations suffered at least one ransomware attack in the past 12 months, according to the 2023 Veeam Ransomware Trends Report—and more companies will have a ransomware attack this year than turn a profit. Ransomware attacks can be damaging to your bottom line, your customers and your reputation. And the criminals who perpetrate these attacks know that.

Cities are getting smarter — and as a consequence, they’re also getting more susceptible to cyberattacks than ever before.

Underscoring this problem is the magnitude of investment governments are making in their IT networks. According to a 2020 report, investment in smart technologies by cities alone is expected to reach $327 billion by 2025. With more city and state governments becoming more connected, the threats of exposure to cyberattacks will continue to grow.

As a financial organization, protecting your assets is non-negotiable. And equally as important to the financial assets your institution holds is your data. A robust cybersecurity posture is your first line of defense.