Has your business been hacked?

As businesses become increasingly dependent on digital technology, the threat of cyber-attacks is also increasing. Cybercriminals are always looking for ways to gain access to valuable data, and as a result, they can disrupt the smooth running of a business with many detrimental effects. As such, it’s important for businesses to know the signs of a breach so they can take immediate action to mitigate the damage. Here are some common signs that your business has been hacked and what you need to do about it.

Unusual network activity

One of the most common signs that a business has been hacked is unusual network activity. This can include slow internet speeds, a sudden drop in connectivity, or attempts for unauthorized access. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to investigate further. The audit could include but is not limited to, performing network diagnostics, checking for unauthorized devices on the network, or checking network logs for unusual activity.

Unauthorized changes

If you notice unauthorized changes to your company’s systems, such as changes to user accounts, file permissions, or system configurations, this may be an indication that someone has gained unauthorized access. Unauthorized access can be the result of a phishing attack or exploiting a vulnerability in your systems. It is important to investigate these changes and determine the cause. In this case, the logs should be checked, and malware scans should be conducted.

Suspicious emails

Another common sign that a business has been hacked is suspicious emails, which can include phishing emails, emails with attachments or links that aren’t expected, or emails with unusual requests. If you or your employees receive suspicious emails, it is important to investigate and determine if they are part of a larger cyber-attack.

Unexplained data loss

If you notice unexplained data loss, such as missing files or corrupted data, it can be a sign that someone has gained unauthorized access to your systems, which could be the result of a ransomware attack or a data breach. It is important to investigate data loss and determine the cause. Here, too, it is suggested that the actions taken to investigate the incident include performing malware scans and checking the logs.

Strange behavior on your computer

If you notice strange behavior on your computer, such as programs running slowly or frequently crashing, it may be a sign of a malware infection. This can also be the result of a phishing attack or exploiting a vulnerability in your systems. It’s important to run malware scans and take extra steps to secure your systems, such as updating software or changing passwords.

In case you notice any of the above indications it is also important to consult a cybersecurity expert in case your business does not have a corresponding department. Additionally, you could benefit from using an MDR (Managed Discovery and Response) service. An MDR service provides 24/7 monitoring of your systems and can quickly detect and respond to potential cyberattacks. MDR uses advanced threat detection and response technologies to detect and stop cyber-attacks before they cause significant damage. By using an MDR service, businesses can ensure they have the expertise and resources needed to be protected against cyber threats, even when they become more sophisticated and complex.

If you suspect that your business has been compromised, it’s important to act immediately. This includes disconnecting affected systems from the network, performing antivirus and malware scans, and contacting a cybersecurity professional immediately for assistance. The sooner you can detect and counter a cyberattack, the less damage it is likely to cause. With vigilance and foresight, you can protect your business from the threat of cyberattacks.