5 Common Entry Points Through Which Malware Can Infect Your System

Business owners must implement robust security schemes to prevent malware from getting into the network and its connected workstations. When monitoring the network, the network administrator must review all entry points where malware can get in and infect the network or the systems.

These vulnerabilities could present easy entry for malicious software that could capture data and use it for financial gains. By addressing the 5 common entry points, the administrators can keep the network and workstations safer.

1. Viruses Attached to an Email

When accessing email, it is recommended that the computer user avoid any emails from unknown senders. Most email services are set up to send any suspicious emails to the spam folder, but many workers continue to use less secure email services and access them via their workstations.

If they open the email and click on a link in the message the computer could be infected with malware from a virus. If the computer gets infected, the business must contact Small Business IT Support for fast assistance.

2. Clicking On an Unsecured Website

Unsecured websites are a cesspool for viruses and malware, and many network administrators set up blocks on any website that isn’t work-related. By allowing workers to access websites freely, there is a higher risk that the malware will find its way into the computer.

They don’t have to click links on the website to infect the computer. As soon as they click on the website link, the malware can infect the computer just as the website loads on the computer. By preventing access to the websites, the administrator does their part to protect the network.

3. Unverified Downloads

Unverified downloads could lead to viruses and malware infections. Workers receive files through the network via emails and file-sharing programs. By clicking on the download, the worker could place the network at risk. The administrators can set up the software to evaluate downloads to determine if they are infected. This could lower the risk of malicious software getting into the workstation and affecting the network and workstation.

4. Links On Social Media

Too often, companies do not block all connections to social media and prevent workers from clicking on links that allow malware into the workstation. Businesses use social media profiles to provide information to followers about products and services. However, they don’t always set up permission for just their moderator, and if other workers can access social media, there is a greater risk of the workers clicking on malicious content.

5. Software Requesting Permission to Bypass the Firewall

At any time that a dialog box appears and requests permission to bypass the firewall, the worker should contact the network administrator. By disabling the firewall, the virus or malware can enter the computer and compromise the entire network.

The request may seem non-threatening, but there is absolutely no reason that any download or product should require the company to lower its firewall. The request itself should be a sign that a cyber attack is on the horizon.

Business owners need a network administrator to keep their network and systems safer and secure. When reviewing entry points for malicious software, they discover that viruses and malware can be attached to emails and unsecured websites.

Unverified downloads could allow the software to be installed on the computer and enter the network. By getting dedicated IT support services, businesses keep malicious software off their workstations and away from their network.