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Cybersecurity

Latest — Jun 16, 2025

Сybersecurity checklist for small businesses

Introduction
Why cybersecurity is crucial for small businesses
Essential cybersecurity checklist for small businesses
Cybersecurity FAQ
Quick takeaways
Conclusion

Introduction

Small businesses are increasingly becoming targets for cybercriminals — with limited resources and often less robust security infrastructures compared to larger enterprises, these businesses are vulnerable to a variety of cyber threats. Implementing a thorough cyber security plan for small business is critical to safeguarding sensitive data and maintaining trust with customers. This article will guide you through a detailed small business cyber security checklist, providing actionable steps to enhance your internet security for businesses and protect against digital attacks.

Why cybersecurity is crucial for small businesses

Many small business owners underestimate the importance of cybersecurity, assuming that they are too small to be targeted. However, this misconception can lead to devastating consequences. According to a report by the National Cyber Security Alliance, 60% of small businesses that experience a cyber attack go out of business within six months. This statistic alone underscores the need for robust cybersecurity protection methods.

The growing threat of cyberattacks

In 2023, the U.S. reported 880,418 cyberattack complaints, representing a 10% increase compared to the previous year.
Total losses from these attacks exceeded $12.5 billion, marking a 22% year-over-year increase.
Small businesses are frequently targeted because they often lack advanced security tools and awareness of the risks.
As larger organizations strengthen their defenses, cybercriminals are shifting focus to smaller companies, viewing them as easier targets.

Why are small businesses vulnerable

Small businesses often fall victim to cyberattacks due to several key vulnerabilities:

Lack of preparedness: Research shows that 23% of small businesses use no device security, while 32% rely on free solutions that may not offer adequate protection.
False sense of security: Many small business owners mistakenly believe their size makes them unattractive targets, leaving them unprepared for sophisticated attacks.
High value of data: Even small enterprises hold valuable customer information, such as credit card numbers and personal data, which hackers can exploit or sell on the dark web.

Key reasons for implementing cybersecurity measures

Protect sensitive data: Small businesses often handle sensitive customer information, including credit card details and personal identifiers, which must be protected from breaches.
Maintain business reputation: A single cyber attack can severely damage a business's reputation, leading to loss of customers and revenue.
Compliance with regulations: Various industries require businesses to adhere to specific cybersecurity standards and regulations, such as GDPR or HIPAA.
Prevent financial losses: Cyber attacks can lead to significant financial losses, not only from theft but also from the cost of recovery and legal liabilities.

Essential cybersecurity checklist for small businesses

Creating a comprehensive cyber security checklist is vital for identifying vulnerabilities and implementing protective measures. Here's a detailed guide to securing your business.

Identify your most valuable assets

Begin by identifying the data and systems that are critical to your business operations. This could include customer databases, financial records, and proprietary information. Understanding what needs the most protection will help prioritize your cybersecurity efforts.

Develop a cyber security policy

A well-defined cyber security policy sets the standard for how your business manages and protects data. It should cover:

Data handling procedures
Employee responsibilities
Incident response strategies
Regular security audits

Use a password manager

Encourage employees to use a password manager to generate and store complex passwords. This reduces the risk of password-related breaches and ensures that passwords are updated regularly. By implementing a solution like Passwork, small businesses can significantly enhance their password security, reduce the likelihood of breaches, and improve overall cybersecurity hygiene.

Secure your mobile devices

With the rise of remote work, securing mobile devices is more important than ever. Implement security measures such as:

Device encryption
Remote wipe capabilities
Regular software updates

Use strong passwords

Ensure that all employees use strong, unique passwords for their accounts. A strong password typically includes a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. With Passwork, businesses can create highly secure passwords using a flexible and customizable password generator, allowing organizations to set specific rules and parameters to meet their security requirements.

Implement two-factor or multi-factor authentication

Adding an extra layer of security through two-factor authentication (2FA) or multi-factor authentication (MFA) can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access.

Plan for incident response

Develop a clear incident response plan that outlines the steps to take in the event of a cyber attack. This should include:

Immediate response actions
Communication protocols
Post-incident analysis

Protect your online accounts and identity

Regularly monitor your online accounts for suspicious activity and use identity protection services to safeguard against identity theft.

Engage with cybersecurity professionals

Consider hiring cybersecurity experts or consultants to conduct assessments and provide tailored advice for your business. Their expertise can help identify hidden vulnerabilities and recommend effective solutions.

Stop ransomware

Ransomware attacks are increasingly common. Protect your business by:

Regularly backing up data
Educating employees about phishing scams
Keeping software up-to-date

Back up and update

Regular data backups and software updates are crucial for protecting against data loss and vulnerabilities. Ensure that backups are stored securely and can be accessed quickly in an emergency.

Foster good online habits

Promote a culture of cybersecurity awareness within your organization. Encourage employees to follow best practices, such as being cautious with email attachments and using secure networks.

Cybersecurity FAQ

Can ransomware attacks target small businesses?

Yes, ransomware attacks can and often do target small businesses. Cybercriminals assume that smaller businesses may lack robust security measures, making them easier targets.

What is the importance of cybersecurity for small businesses?

Cybersecurity is crucial for protecting sensitive data, maintaining customer trust, and ensuring compliance with regulations. It helps prevent financial losses and reputational damage.

How can small businesses protect against ransomware?

Regularly back up data, educate employees about phishing scams, and keep software updated to mitigate the risk of ransomware attacks.

What are some common cyber security measures for small businesses?

Common measures include using strong passwords, implementing MFA, securing mobile devices, and conducting regular security audits.

How often should I update my passwords?

It's recommended to update passwords every three to six months. Additionally, change passwords immediately if you suspect any account compromise. You can monitor the age and potential compromise risks of your passwords using the Security dashboard in Passwork. This feature helps you stay proactive about password security and ensures your credentials remain robust and up-to-date.

Why should small businesses engage with cybersecurity professionals?

Cybersecurity professionals provide expert advice, conduct vulnerability assessments, and offer tailored solutions to enhance security.

How can small businesses create a cybersecurity plan?

Start by identifying valuable assets, developing a security policy, and implementing protective measures such as password managers and incident response plans.

Quick takeaways

Cybersecurity is critical for small businesses to protect sensitive data and maintain customer trust.
Implementing a small business cyber security checklist helps identify and mitigate vulnerabilities.
Regularly update passwords, use MFA, and secure mobile devices to enhance security.
Develop a comprehensive cyber security policy and incident response plan.
Engage with cybersecurity professionals for expert guidance and protection strategies.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the importance of cybersecurity for small businesses cannot be overstated. By following this cyber security checklist, businesses can significantly reduce the risk of cyber attacks and ensure the safety of their data and operations. Implementing these measures not only protects against immediate threats but also builds a resilient foundation for long-term success. Take proactive steps today to safeguard your business, and consider consulting with cybersecurity experts to stay ahead of evolving threats.

Ready to take the first step? Request a free demo and explore practical ways to protect your business.

Сybersecurity checklist for small businesses

Cybersecurity

May 16, 2025 — 5 min read

Unpacking the gap between compliance and culture

Introduction
The compliance trap: Why policies fall flat
The real reason employees tune out
Training vs. transformation
Third-party risk: The unseen threat
Password mismanagement: Still the weakest link
Automating GRC without alienation
Leadership role in building security-first culture
Final thoughts

Introduction

Companies spend millions on cybersecurity policies — but often overlook the human side of enforcement. Why do employees ignore security rules, even when they’re clearly defined and regularly updated? And how can organizations shift from checkbox compliance to genuine behavioral change?

These were the big questions tackled in our latest Passwork cybersecurity webinar, featuring ISO 27001 consultant and ISMS Copilot founder, Tristan Roth. Together, we explored how companies can strengthen security culture, align leadership and compliance teams, and ultimately get employees to care about cybersecurity policies.

This article highlights the key insights from that discussion, offering a practical roadmap for businesses aiming to turn policy fatigue into proactive security awareness.

The compliance trap: Why policies fall flat

According to a 2024 ISACA survey, just 38% of organizations believe their compliance efforts have improved their actual security posture. The rest? Going through the motions.

They want to be ISO-certified in three weeks. They write 50 documents, sign them, and think the job is done. But there’s no substance. And without substance, there’s nothing to embed into company culture.
— Tristan Roth

Tristan noted that many companies pursue ISO 27001 purely for external reasons — sales pressure, vendor demands, regulatory requirements. But this "checkbox compliance" mindset often leads to rushed implementations, shallow training, and policies that nobody reads.

That’s precisely why meaningful certifications stand out. As a case in point, Passwork itself recently achieved ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification — a milestone that underscores our commitment not just to technical excellence, but to real, operational security practices. You can view the certification details here. For us, it’s not about the certificate on the wall — it’s about living the standard in our day-to-day approach to product design, customer trust, and internal controls.

The real reason employees tune out

It's easy to blame employees for ignoring security policies. But in many cases, they’re not wrong to do so.

Tristan described how companies often copy-paste policy templates from the internet without adapting them to their specific context. A policy meant for
a university might get handed to a startup team. A remote work rule might ignore hybrid realities.

If a policy obviously doesn’t reflect your real work environment, of course employees will skip it. They know when no effort was made.

This disconnect between policy and reality creates distrust. Employees learn
to view documentation as bureaucracy, not guidance.

Training vs. transformation

Security training is everywhere — but it’s often treated like background noise.

Tristan emphasized that truly effective awareness programs require empathy, relevance, and context. Instead of one-size-fits-all e-learning modules, what works best is direct, human conversation. Sitting down with small groups. Tailoring sessions to different roles. Explaining why a policy exists, not just what it says.

Sometimes, the most effective approach is doing things that don’t scale. A 10-person training session can do more than a 2-hour video everyone skips.

This type of pedagogy isn’t flashy — but it changes behavior. It creates a feedback loop between employees and security teams that policy documents alone can’t.

Third-party risk: The unseen threat

In 2024, over 60% of data breaches were linked to third parties. Yet many organizations still conduct vendor assessments as a one-time task during onboarding — and never revisit them.

The companies I work closest with — I know the people. And if something changes, I can ask for proof, or pivot fast. That’s the mindset companies need to adopt.

Tristan warned against over-relying on surface-level due diligence. He stressed the importance of designating a responsible person (even in small companies) to build real relationships with vendors, revisit risk exposure over time, and keep alternative solutions in mind for business continuity.

Password mismanagement: Still the weakest link

According to Verizon’s Data Breach Investigations Report (DBIR), over 80% of hacking-related breaches still involve stolen or reused credentials.

Despite having password policies in place, many companies don’t monitor whether employees actually follow them. Shared passwords in messaging apps, weak variations of old passwords, or resistance to using MFA — these are all symptoms of convenience overriding policy.

A good password policy isn’t enough. You need to design systems assuming passwords will be compromised — and build defenses like MFA around that assumption.

Passwork and similar tools offer self-hosted or cloud-based solutions, but Tristan’s advice was clear: tools help, but they don’t replace responsibility. Compliance teams need to combine tech with empathy, audits, and clear communication.

Automating GRC without alienation

Automation can cut Governance, Risk management and Compliance (GRC) workloads by up to 60%, but it’s not a silver bullet. Poorly implemented tools can actually increase policy fatigue.

Some platforms take ten times longer than Excel. People go back to Excel — not because they don’t believe in compliance, but because the tool wasn’t built with their workflow in mind.

Instead of aiming for “full automation,” companies should focus on effective automation — solutions that reduce friction, not increase it. This means assigning a project owner, setting realistic expectations, and piloting changes before rolling them out at scale.

Leadership role in building security-first culture

Cybersecurity is often seen as an IT issue, but real change starts with leadership.

A recent PWC survey found that 80% of executives say they prioritize security — yet only 30% of CISOs feel supported. Tristan argued that this misalignment often stems from poor communication.

Security leaders need to speak the language of business. Not vulnerability management. Risk in financial terms. Loss potential. Mitigation cost. Impact.

CISOs must become translators — connecting security risks to business outcomes. When leadership understands the stakes in terms they care about, support and budget follow.

Final thoughts

Employees ignore cybersecurity policies not because they’re lazy — but because the policies feel irrelevant, the training feels generic, and the tools feel like obstacles.

Shifting that mindset requires a cultural transformation: from compliance to care, from documentation to dialogue. As Tristan put it, be the captain of your own security ship. Know your context. Use the tools wisely. But lead with empathy and clarity.

Ready to take the first step? Request a free demo and explore how Passwork helps your team move from policy fatigue to security-first thinking.

Why do employees ignore cybersecurity policies?

AES

Apr 8, 2025 — 12 min read

What is the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES)?
Where is AES encryption used?
How AES encryption works
Advantages of AES encryption
Attacks on AES encryption
How to prevent attacks on AES encryption
How does AES compare to other encryption?
How Passwork can help with encryption

What is the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES)?

The Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) is a method used to convert plain text into unintelligible code. This encrypted data can only be accessed by those who possess the proper key.

The United States government formally made AES its encryption standard during 2001. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) selected AES to replace the outdated DES encryption system after conducting its evaluation. It is currently among the most dependable approaches for securing digital information.

What is unique about AES? It is quick, safe, and adaptable. 128, 192, or 256-bit keys may be used with it. The protection increases with the length of the key. But even the 128-bit version is considered very secure.

AES uses a symmetric encryption method. That means the same key is used to lock and unlock the data. Both sides must have the same key to communicate safely.

Governments, banks, and tech companies use AES every day. It guards emails, passwords, files, and even voice calls.

Where is AES encryption used?

AES encryption works discreetly behind the scenes, protecting your data every day. It keeps logins, online banking, Wi-Fi, and cloud storage. Mobile applications, communication tools like WhatsApp and Zoom, and cloud systems like Google Drive depend on AES. It’s embedded into USBs, SSDs, and cellphones to lock down data. Even if your gadget goes lost, AES keeps data protected. Businesses use it to preserve client details, emails, and personnel records. Governments trust AES too, making it important for securing sensitive data across both personal and professional contexts.

How AES encryption works?

AES scrambles your data via a technique called substitution and permutation. It might sound complex, but let’s break it down.

AES separates the data into generally 128-bit long small blocks. It then sends each block through a sequence of steps called rounds. The number of rounds depends on the key size:

10 rounds for 128-bit
12 rounds for 192-bit
14 rounds for 256-bit

Each round updates the data using mathematical operations. It mixes stuff up, substitutes bits, and changes components around. The key guides this entire process — without the appropriate key, the result appears like random garbage.

This is where AES excels. The same procedure is used to encrypt and decrypt. You simply reverse the steps using the same key.

Because it employs a block scheme, AES operates rapidly. It’s also less likely to break down if a tiny element is modified or lost. That’s why it’s perfect for huge files and streaming.

To put it simply, AES transforms your communication into a puzzle. Without the key, the components won’t fit.

Advantages of AES encryption

Globally, AES encryption is trustworthy, rapid, and strong. It’s one of the most secure methods for protecting information, which is why banks, governments, and major tech companies use it every day.

One major win? Speed. AES operates quickly on both small and large files. It runs nicely even on minimal hardware. That means it won’t slow things down — even while encrypting huge amount of data.

Security is another significant advantage. AES employs complicated keys and several rounds to scramble information. Hackers can’t break it without huge computational power. And even then, it would take thousands of years.

Flexibility matters too. AES offers three basic key lengths: 128, 192, and 256 bits. You can choose the degree of security suited for your scenario — longer keys give greater protection.

It’s also extensively embraced. Since it’s a worldwide standard, most tools and platforms support it. That makes integration simpler. You don’t need to develop anything from the start.

Plus, AES is efficient. It requires less system resources than some previous approaches. That saves power on mobile devices and keeps systems working smoothly.

Attacks on AES encryption

AES is challenging to penetrate. Still, attackers continuously attempt new techniques. Instead of breaking the math behind AES itself, they usually target the systems that use it.

One such way is side-channel assaults. These don’t touch the algorithm itself. Instead, they monitor how it operates. Think power utilization, timing, or electromagnetic leakage. It's like eavesdropping on someone inputting a password, not breaching the lock.

Another option is the brute force assault. This requires testing every key until one fits. For AES-128, that’s 2¹²⁸ combinations. It’s an extremely large number—just to give you an idea, it’s much more than the number of atoms in the observable universe. Even the fastest computers would require billions of years. Simply, it’s just not practical.

Some go target weak passwords instead. AES may be strong, but a lousy password may shatter everything. It’s like putting a cheap lock on a bank vault.

Then there’s the related-key assault. It’s unusual and only works if attackers know specific details about the keys. With effective key management, this attack is virtually worthless.

Sometimes, hackers utilize key recovery attacks. They attempt to find out the encryption key by examining trends or flaws in how data is handled.

These assaults don’t indicate AES is weak; they merely illustrate that security isn’t about one single component. It's about the complete picture. The configuration, the keys, the users — each plays a crucial role.

How to prevent attacks on AES encryption

Even the toughest lock requires a clever owner. AES is strong, but wise usage makes it secure.

First, use strong, unique passwords. Don’t reuse them. Don’t make them simple. A good encryption system with a weak password is like closing your door and putting the key under the mat.

Next, safeguard your keys. Don’t store them with your data. That’s like placing your combination lock and the code in the same drawer. Use separate, trustworthy key management tools.

Keep your software updated. Old systems may contain faults or weaknesses that attackers already know. Patches heal the flaws. Skipping updates gives hackers a head start.

Watch out for side-channel leakage. If attackers can read power utilization or timing, they may put things together. Devices processing AES should have protection against these signals.

Don’t forget access control. The castle's keys are not necessary for everyone. Limit who can see or utilize sensitive data.

Also, avoid copy-paste security configurations. What works for one system may not suit yours. Understand your requirements, then pick the proper settings.

How does AES compare to other encryption?

AES stands tall in the encryption world. But how does it compare to others like RSA and DES?

First off, AES is symmetric. That means the same key is used to lock and unlock data. It's fast and works great when both parties already know the key. RSA, on the other hand, is asymmetric. It uses a pair of keys: one public, one private. It's slower but better for situations where users don’t share a key ahead of time like email encryption.

Now, DES used to be the big boss. But it's way too weak now. Hackers can crack it in hours, maybe less. AES replaced it because it’s faster, safer, and designed to last.

What makes AES shine is its balance, strong security, quick processing, and wide use. It runs smooth on most devices and doesn’t eat up system power like RSA. That’s why it’s popular in banking, Wi-Fi, and cloud apps.

RSA still has a place, especially for secure key exchanges. But once the keys are shared, AES usually takes over.

Using RSA acts like a bodyguard giving you the key to access a protected space implemented through AES encryption.

AES provides greater encryption security than original encryption systems such as Blowfish and Twofish. Users benefit from its global-wide tested, trusted, and authorized security approval.

AES-128 vs. AES-256

AES encryption includes three key variations which are explained through 128, 192 and 256-bit measurement systems. AES-128 and AES-256 represent the primary opposition group of encryption standards. AES-128 employs a 128-bit key. AES-256 uses a 256-bit key.

Simple, right? The key length directly affects the strength of the encryption, which is what distinguishes these two variations. Taking longer key lengths enables hackers to face increased difficulty when trying to predict potential combinations. AES-256 offers a key selection capacity 2¹²⁸ times greater than AES-128 does. That’s not just bigger, that's gigantic.

But here’s the twist. AES-128 is still quite secure. Experts have yet to break the code, even with the power of supercomputers attempting to crack it. The algorithm runs quickly and consumes minimal power, making it ideal for mobile devices and real-time applications.

AES-256 gives further levels of safety. The encryption shows resistance to force-based attacks while delivering maximum protection against complex threats. Government and military organizations implement AES-256 because the extra security level exceeds their requirements.

So, which one should you use? Consider AES-256 as your protection choice if you need the highest level of encryption security. AES-128 provides sufficient protection to secure most typical applications when one considers both speed and security performance. Deciding between armed tank protection and bulletproof vehicles represents the choice between AES-256 and AES-128 cryptographic protocols. Both protect you. One is simply more robust.

Bottom line? AES-128 is quick and powerful. At the same time AES-256 provides maximum strength yet operates at slightly reduced speed. The selection should rest on your specific needs regardless of any exaggerated claims.

AES vs. RSA

AES and RSA both provide strong data protection, but they operate in fundamentally different ways.

AES is symmetric encryption — fast, efficient, and perfect for large files or real-time communication.

RSA is asymmetric. This cryptographic system requires two specific keys where one remains public for encryption purposes and the second remains private for decryption functions. People can provide encrypted content like putting letters in a mailbox yet only the mailbox owner possesses the required key for decryption.

AES encryption operates at speeds much higher than those of RSA encryption. The majority of systems first use RSA to distribute the AES key before they transition to AES operations. The system works similar to RSA which opens the door before AES handles all the cleaning operations within.

RSA is ideal for secure key exchange, especially over open networks like the internet. But it's slow for large data. Very slow.

AES shines when speed matters. It’s built for bulk encryption files, hard drives, apps, you name it.

So, which is better? Neither. They do different jobs. In fact, most secure systems use both together. RSA to safely share the AES key. AES to encrypt the actual data.

AES vs. DES

AES and DES are both encryption standards, but they’re not on the same level. DES came first. It was developed in the 1970s. Back then, it was a big deal. It protected sensitive data for decades. But times changed. Hackers got smarter. Computers got faster. And DES started to fall apart.

DES uses a 56-bit key. That sounds fine until you realize how easy that is to crack today. A regular desktop computer can break DES in hours. A powerful system? Minutes. That’s not good enough anymore.

AES came in to fix that. It uses key widths of 128, 192, or 256 bits. That’s a massive upgrade. AES isn’t just harder to break, it's practically impossible with today’s tools. That’s why banks, the military, and even WhatsApp trust AES.

There’s also speed. DES works with 64-bit blocks, while AES handles 128-bit blocks. AES encrypts more data at once and does it faster. DES feels like a typewriter in a world of smartphones.

In simple terms: DES is outdated. It’s like using a flip phone when you could have a secure smartphone. AES isn’t just better. It’s safer, smarter, and future-proof. If you care about security, there’s no real debate.

What is advanced encryption standard and how does it work

AES encryption FAQ

Is AES symmetric or asymmetric?

AES is a symmetric encryption algorithm. The encryption process utilizes a single key which performs the decryption operation as well. The system functions by utilizing a solitary key both for encryption and decryption processes. The system enables rapid execution for encrypting files and networks alongside message protection since it depends on existing shared keys between users. Symmetric systems like AES are usually faster than asymmetric ones, but the trick is safely sharing that key. If someone steals the key, they get access. That’s why key management is super important with AES.

What is AES 128 vs. 192 vs. 256?

The key sizes measured in bits include numbers ranging from 128 to 192 and 256. Extended keys become harder to break. AES-128 is already extremely secure. Higher security levels come from AES-192 and AES-256 — yet they operate at a slightly reduced speed. A majority of systems choose AES-256 because of its exceptional security features. The padlock analogy applies where AES-128 represents strong security while AES-256 functions at Fort Knox level of protection. Each AES version maintains a constant block size of 128 bits alongside unchanged basic building components while adding additional rounds of complexity through larger key lengths.

Is 128-Bit AES secure?

Yes, AES-128 is very secure even by today’s standards. It would take billions of years to brute-force with current tech. While some organizations prefer AES-256 for extra strength, AES-128 has never been broken. It’s still widely used in apps, websites, and devices. Unless someone invents a quantum computer that works like magic, AES-128 isn’t going anywhere. It’s fast, reliable, and strong enough for almost any purpose.

Is AES the best encryption method?

For most uses? Yes. AES is the gold standard. It’s trusted by governments, banks, and tech companies worldwide. It’s fast, secure, and flexible. That’s hard to beat. It’s not perfect for everything, though. For secure email or digital signatures, asymmetric methods like RSA work better. But for locking down files, networks, or apps? AES takes the crown. It’s been tested, approved, and trusted for over two decades and still going strong.

How Passwork can help with encryption

Keeping passwords safe is tough. You probably have dozens, maybe even hundreds of them. And when they’re scattered across random locations, it’s a disaster waiting to happen.

That’s where Passwork comes in. A password vault is a secure storage system that protects your sensitive information in one safe location. AES-256 encryption secures everything, using the same standard trusted by banks and governments. So, yeah, it’s solid.

But Passwork doesn’t stop at security. It also makes your life easier. You don’t need to memorize every login. Just store it once, and boom it's always there when you need it. Need to share passwords with your team? You can do that safely without sending anything over chat or email. No more “What’s the Wi-Fi password again?” moments.

Passwork also puts you in control. You decide who gets access, when, and to what. You can see logs of who accessed what and when. Plus, you can view logs showing who accessed what and when. It’s peace of mind for IT admins and managers.

And let’s not forget backups. Passwork keeps your data synced and safe. If something goes wrong, you’re not stuck. Your passwords are still locked down and ready to go.

What is the Advanced Encryption Standard

Cybersecurity

Apr 1, 2025 — 8 min read

Introduction
What is a cybersecurity risk assessment?
The importance of cyber risk assessment
Who should perform a cyber risk assessment?
Common cybersecurity risks and threats
How to perform a cybersecurity risk assessment
Conclusion

Introduction

The surge of cybercrime involves attacks that continue to become more complex and expensive. Cybercrime experts predict that costs from cybercrime will reach $10.5 trillion by 2025 therefore cybersecurity risk assessments need to become more essential than before. Attacks against organizations occur through the abuse of weak networks alongside software flaws together with undetected human errors.

A cybersecurity risk assessment enables businesses to locate and solve security vulnerabilities which become devastating breaches unless addressed. When organizations omit this step they become vulnerable to ransomware intrusions as well as phishing attacks from inside their operations and non-compliance issues arise. The 2017 Equifax breach revealed 147 million records because an updated vulnerability remained unpatched. This guide explains cybersecurity risk assessments while showing their significance and offers proper execution directions.

What is a cybersecurity risk assessment?

The definition of a cybersecurity risk assessment involves identifying and reducing potential threats against IT systems data and operational environments.

The goal of a cybersecurity risk assessment is to help organizations detect and lower the risks impacting their IT systems together with their data and operational functions. Modern cybersecurity threats demand active protective security measures to prevent potential audience points of weakness.

Key components of a cybersecurity risk assessment

Risk identification
Identifying Cyber weaknesses in systems, software, networks, and employee practices a cybercriminal can exploit.

Risk analysis
Assessing the impact that these threats can have on the business continuity, finances, and regulatory compliance.

Risks mitigation
Take cybersecurity mitigations like firewalls, encryption, MFA (multi-factor authentication), and user training.

Risk monitoring
Updating and improving security strategies to adapt to changing cyber threats, including keeping up with compliance requirements such as NIST, ISO 27001, GDPR, and other cybersecurity data compliance regulations

Analogy: Cybersecurity risk assessment is like a home security audit

Imagine your home. You wouldn’t leave the doors unlocked or overlook vulnerable entry points that could be used by intruders to gain access. You wouldn’t leave your door unlocked, though: you’d put in locks, security cameras and an alarm system so that no one could break in. Just like how risk assessments in cybersecurity allow businesses to discover and fix gaps in their digital defenses before they can be exploited by hackers.

The risks of neglecting cyber risk assessments

Failing to perform routine assessments for cybersecurity related risks makes organisations vulnerable to data breaches, financial loss, damage to reputation, and fines. There are had cybercrimes, including ransomware, phishing, and insider threats, that's steal customer information and grind operations to a halt.

Assessment and strengthening of security defenses are measures which protect sensitive data and keep modern business up and running, hence minimizing risk for companies.

What is the primary purpose of a risk assessment in cybersecurity

The importance of cyber risk assessment

Organizations today must perform cyber risk assessments since they are a mandatory requirement. The absence of consistent assessment puts businesses at risk of losing data confidentiality through breaches and operational interruptions while harmful damage occurs to their public image. Security maintenance along with stability depends directly on discovering and solving vulnerabilities.

Why businesses must conduct cyber risk assessments

Preventing financial losses
Cyberattacks can have severe financial consequences, with the average data breach costing up to $4.45 million. This includes expenses for system recovery, legal fees, reputational damage, and customer loss (IBM Cost of a Data Breach Report, 2023). Regular security audits and risk assessments help businesses detect vulnerabilities early, preventing costly breaches and saving significant resources.

Ensuring business continuity
Cyberattacks don't just compromise data; they can bring business operations to a standstill, resulting in extended downtime and revenue loss. A ransomware attack, for example, has the potential to lock businesses out of critical systems for days or even weeks. Businesses can establish safety protocols at the outset to minimize the blow when a sucker punch comes in the form of a cyberattack.

Avoiding legal penalties & compliance violations
Established security regulations require multiple sectors to take specific actions including:

● NIST Cybersecurity Framework

● CISA Cybersecurity Risk Assessment Guidelines

● ISO 27001 Information Security Standard

● GDPR & HIPAA Data Protection Laws

Non-adherence to regulations results in both significant court actions and hefty fines together with potential damage to public image. Businesses that conduct cyber risk assessments on a regular basis stay compliant with regulations thus preventing any potential legal consequences.

Who should perform a cyber risk assessment?

A business can evaluate risks through dedicated IT personnel or by contracting with external cybersecurity firms.

Internal IT teams vs. third-party assessments

Internal IT teams
Suitable for companies with a dedicated cybersecurity team. Internal IT staff members reduce costs but typically have fewer advanced assessment capabilities at their disposal. Companies conducting security evaluations through their own staff members risk introducing personal preferences that might affect the evaluation results.

Third-party cybersecurity firms
The company should present independent professional cybersecurity knowledge for conducting threat evaluations. Companies benefit from receiving both advanced security technology together with the most recent threat intelligence information. Level of precision along with objectivity rises significantly yet costs more money. Third-party cybersecurity services provide small businesses that have limited resources with thorough security risk assessments which are also conducted without bias.

Different approaches to cyber risk

An organization can execute cyber risk assessments by hand or through programmed systems which provide both pros and cons for each method.

The direct assessment method allows internal IT groups or external cybersecurity companies to perform detailed evaluations but demands experienced personnel along with prolonged examination durations. The approaches deliver specific results that could contain mistakes due to human factor involvement.

Cyber risk assessment tools perform automated scans on vulnerabilities at high speed because of their automated nature. The automated assessment method delivers time and cost effectiveness although it lacks the contextual knowledge that manual assessment provides.

Organizations team up these two risk assessment approaches to achieve full visibility into potential threats to their cybersecurity posture.

Types of risk assessment in cyber security

Common cybersecurity risks and threats

● Hackers stealthily access systems using malicious software programs to steal vital information that they hold hostage as ransom. WannaCry ransomware conducted a worldwide attack on 200,000 machines which led to massive disturbances together with substantial monetary damages.

● Cybercriminals use social engineering tactics along with phishing to obtain confidential employee information. The 2020 Twitter system breach occurred when employees fell victim to a phishing scheme that led to the system compromise.

● The organizations experience data breaches when employees together with third-party business associates and contractors either by mistake or deliberately reveal confidential information.

● Software vulnerabilities become targets for attackers at security holes that will not receive fixes before their launch.

● Numerous companies encounter cloud security issues due to their inability to protect cloud-stored sensitive customer information.

How to perform a cybersecurity risk assessment

The process of performing a cybersecurity risk assessment enables organizations to find system weaknesses while stopping possible internet threats. To evaluate successfully you should follow these provided steps.

Determine the scope
Establish which information systems along with data and external vendors require assessment consideration. Organizations should follow compliance standards that include NIST and ISO 27001 as well as HIPAA and the GDPR.

Identify and prioritize assets
Organizations should place assets within categories depending on their different risk rankings:

● Critical: Customer databases, financial records, intellectual property

● Medium: Internal emails, login credentials

● Low: Archived data, public website content

Identify cyber threats and vulnerabilities
Determine which vulnerabilities hackers can use against your assets including ransomware malware along with phishing attacks. Results of penetration testing and vulnerability scanning help organizations detect their risks.

Assess and analyze risks
Assess every menacing factor through past scenario occurrences and industry-established benchmarks. Data security breaches trigger multiple adverse effects that include monetary losses alongside operational interruptions together with damage to company reputation.

Calculate risk probability and impact
Evaluate and categorize risks using qualitative analysis in order to determine their level (low, medium, high) as well as their potential financial consequences.

Prioritize risks with cost-benefit analysis
Allocate resources efficiently. Clients should invest in multiple-step authentication security measures to handle a $5M ransomware risk.

Implement security controls
Deploy firewalls, MFA, and encryption. The protection value improves when maintaining regular software updates and performing security audit inspections.

Monitor and document results
Security assessments need to run continuously and annual checkups need to function alongside incident log maintenance for following compliance protocols.

Benefits of cybersecurity risk assessments

Security risk assessments act as defensive tools which protect a company from cyberattacks while enabling companies to follow regulations and fortify their defenses leading to data protection and protecting them from expensive breaches.

Conclusion

Security risk assessments should take place habitually because they detect vulnerabilities and stop attacks and maintain regulatory conformity. Companies need to take proactive security measures because cyber threats continue to change without any possibility for choice. Regular assessment practices allow businesses to create stronger defensive measures for their data protection and evade damaging data breaches. A long-term defensive position comes from continuous security monitoring together with employee training as well as enhanced cybersecurity tools. Security strategies deliver protection through preparedness as much as through defense initiatives. The current investment in cybersecurity defenses by businesses ensures their success in facing future risks. The regular performance of assessments will both protect your business from cyber threats and guarantee your preparedness regarding new security risks.

What is a cybersecurity risk assessment?

Password security

Mar 6, 2025 — 7 min read

Digital security demands the highest possible protection for passwords due to modern advances in digital presence. For effective password security people need to understand that cybercriminals have developed intricate ways to break passwords. The lack of password security foundation has resulted in many notable data breaches which released vital customer information and created severe financial losses together with reputation damage for companies.

The application looks into password security approaches through salting and peppering because they protect user credentials effectively. The paper explores implementation recommendations as well as a review of authentication strategies in present-day cybersecurity and emerging authentication trends.

Understanding password hashing

The core component for safe password protection rests in password hashing. System administrators use cryptographic hash functions to hide passwords by converting them into stable computational outputs known as hash codes. Hash values cannot be reversed to reveal the original password information after a transformation completes. The protection of passwords remains strong in case database systems fall victim to an attack.

Common hashing algorithms

Multiple cryptographic hash functions provide password security as part of their standard practice.

● SHA-256 functions as a safe hashing system that executes cryptographic applications with security as its primary priority. SHA-256 (Secure Hash Algorithm 256-bit) belongs to the SHA-2 standard of cryptographic hash functions. The Merkle-Damgård construction enables this system to split data into 512-bit blocks. The compression function inside this algorithm uses bitwise operations where XOR, AND, NOT, and shifts generate a 256-bit hash value. The security level of SHA-256 is solid but it fails to offer native defense against brute-force attacks so it cannot be used directly on passwords without salt insertion. The cryptographic method suffers from attacks that expand the input length.

● The adaptive function and automatically generated random components of BCrypt protect against brute-force attacks to establish superior password storage protection. BCrypt operates with Blowfish cipher technology while its cost factor controls the difficulty of the hashing procedure execution. The adjustment of cost factors allows for extending hash computation time which raises the cost of brute-force attacks both in time and resources. The security is improved through automatic BCrypt-generated salts designed for individual passwords.

● Argon2: A modern, memory-hard algorithm designed to be resistant to brute-force attacks by making hash computation resource-intensive. Argon2 has different variants like Argon2d, Argon2i, and Argon2id. Argon2d maximizes resistance against GPU-based cracking attacks by using data-dependent memory access. Argon2i is optimized to resist side-channel attacks by using data-independent memory access. Argon2id is a hybrid mode that combines the advantages of both Argon2d and Argon2i. It leverages memory-hard functions to resist side-channel attacks and GPU-based cracking, making it a robust choice for password hashing.

Hashing alone, however, is not sufficient because attackers can precompute hashes using dictionary attacks and rainbow tables. The process of salting and peppering takes over at this point.

What is salting?

The cryptographic method called salting enhances password hash security through its implementation. In the encryption process programmers introduce a unique random string called salt which they put before running the password through a hash function. Security salts stop cyber attackers from using precomputed tables called rainbow tables for password cracking.

Benefits of salting

A proper salting process stops identical passwords from producing identical hash values because attackers find it simpler to identify patterns in passwords that match.
The addition of salts defeats rainbow table attacks since they make computational password cracking via precomputed hash tables virtually impossible.
Strong hashing techniques together with individual password salts improve security through their ability to make attacks on different hashes impossible by using the same methods.

Best practices for salting passwords

Security demands each password to have its own unique salt.
Salts need to be placed in separate storage locations from posted hashes in order to protect user data from database breaches.
High-Entropy Salts are effective because their randomly created lengthy format decreases susceptibility to brute-force attempts. A password salt has unpredictable characteristics when its entropy level is high.
A 128-bit salt possesses such a great amount of randomness that guessing its value becomes virtually impossible.
The generation of salts requires using crypto-secure pseudo-random number generators (CSPRNGs).
Sustainable security comes from implementing complex Hashing Algorithms which include Argon2 and bcrypt among others; these methods demand high computing power from attackers.
The maintenance of security practices requires periodic evaluation and upgrade of password storage procedures in order to anticipate and counter new security threats.

What is peppering?

Pepper differs from salt by adding a hidden key (pepper) which secures passwords during hashing operations. A pepper serves as an additional security measure because unlike salt which stores password hash values it stays independent from database access.

Benefits of peppering

A stolen database remains insecure because penetration requires access to the protected pepper.
Separating the pepper from the database provides protection against unauthorized password decryption because database exposure is insufficient to complete password cracking.
The integration of a pepper element makes brute-force attacks much more difficult because attackers lack the required information to execute system wide hash testing.
Most automated attack scripts become less effective since they do not consider unknown pepper values in their standard operations.

Challenges of peppering

The storage location for the pepper needs to be separate from other data in a protected environment variable or hardware security module.
A compromised pepper poses a risk to decrypt all passwords which use that pepper whenever it gets exposed.
Organizations must replace their keys on a regular basis to decrease this security risk.
Organizations need to periodically change their peppers as part of their management requirements while maintaining hash integrity during replacements.
Proper implementation of peppering demands strategic approach because it needs to preserve efficient and scalable authentication procedures.

How salting and peppering work together

Security of passwords improves through the simultaneous application of peppering and salting techniques. A combination of salting provides unique hash values and peppering creates an added defense against potential attacks.

Users go through this process to create a password by using the following steps:

A new specific salt emerges which gets added following the password.
The pepper is applied as a secret addition to the combination of salted password.
A strong algorithm performs the hash operation on the final combined string.
Database storage houses both the combination of salt and hashed password but the system maintains exclusive control of the pepper data.
The combined security measures elevate password defense to such high levels that attackers would struggle to obtain undisputed passwords even after breaching the database.

Best practices for implementing salting and peppering

Use unique salts: Each password should have its own unique salt to maximize security. Store salts in a separate database column from password hashes.
Strong hashing algorithms: Implement industry-recommended hashing functions such as bcrypt, Argon2, and PBKDF2.
Secure pepper storage: Peppers should be stored independently from the database, such as in environment variables or a Hardware Security Module (HSM) for added protection.
Regular pepper rotation: Schedule periodic updates for peppers and encourage users to change their passwords when necessary.
Multi-factor authentication (MFA): Enhance security by requiring additional authentication factors beyond passwords.
Regulatory compliance: Ensure compliance with security standards like GDPR, NIST, and PCI DSS to protect against breaches.
Account protection measures: Implement failed login attempt limits and automatic account locks to prevent brute-force attacks.
Ongoing security audits: Regularly evaluate authentication and storage methods to detect and mitigate vulnerabilities.
User education: Encourage strong password creation using passphrases and password managers while promoting awareness of password security risks.

User education and password management

Each password requires its own individual salt creation to achieve maximum security level.
Storage of salts should be done in their own database column which must remain apart from the password hash storage area.
You should implement strong hashing functions which include bcrypt, Argon2 and PBKDF2 and other security hashing algorithms in your system.
The pepper must exist independently from the database storage by placing it either in environmental variables or within an HSM (Hardware Security Module).
The combination of security features in HSMs includes tamper-resistant storage and cryptographic key administration.
Security measures should be enhanced through Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) which adds extra authentication protocols.
The combination of peppers should be replaced in scheduled rotations and you should change your passwords at needed times.
Protecting passwords against security breaches requires businesses to meet requirements of GDPR, NIST and PCI DSS while implementing robust password security.
Account security improves when system implements mechanisms that limit failed login attempts followed by automatic account locks.
The evaluation of password security practices should happen regularly through security evaluations which detect weak points in methods used for authentication and storage.
Users need to receive instruction about how to develop and store strong passwords through passphrases and password manager tools.
Users must receive proper training about creating strong passwords to improve security.
Creating passwords must start with developing complex alphanumeric passcodes that are different from each other and should avoid easy-to-guess passwords and grasp password reset danger points.

Compliance and regulatory landscape

Ensuring robust password security requires adherence to industry regulations such as GDPR, NIST, and PCI DSS. Key compliance measures include:

Salting & hashing: Each password should have a unique salt stored separately from hashed passwords. Use strong hashing algorithms like bcrypt, Argon2, and PBKDF2.
Secure pepper storage: Peppers should be stored independently, such as in environment variables or an HSM (Hardware Security Module) for tamper-resistant protection.
Multi-factor authentication (MFA): Implement MFA to enhance security and prevent unauthorized access.
Access control & monitoring: Enforce failed login attempt limits and automatic account locks to mitigate brute-force attacks.
Regular security audits: Conduct periodic evaluations to identify vulnerabilities in authentication and storage methods.
User education: Promote strong password practices, use of password managers, and awareness of password reset risks to minimize human error.

The Future of Password Security

New authentication methods become essential to combat evolving security threats despite existing added protection provided by peppering and salting. New trends in password security protection will include the following elements:

Through biometric authentication people no longer need to use passwords because their fingerprints and face and behavior patterns serve as alternative access methods.
Passwordless authentication: Provide more details on passwordless authentication methods like FIDO2 and WebAuthn. Public-key cryptography allows these technologies to authenticate users through passwordless authentication procedures.
Zero-Trust Security Models conduct continuous user identity verification for protecting against security threats.
The detection system uses AI algorithms to analyze suspicious login patterns for the purpose of preventing unauthorized entry.

Password security: Understanding salting and peppering

Feb 6, 2025 — 3 min read

AI technologies are changing industries fast and most companies are already using or will use AI in the next few years. While AI brings many benefits — increased efficiency, customer satisfaction and revenue growth — its also introduces unique risks that need to be addressed proactively.

From reputation damage to compliance violations and cyber attacks, the consequences of poorly implemented AI systems are severe. The rise of cyber-physical systems, like autonomous vehicles, highlights the need to integrate robust safety measures into AI development and deployment.

So experts have created practical recommendations to help organizations navigate these challenges. These guidelines are designed to make sure AI systems are secure, reliable and aligned with regulatory and ethical standards so businesses can use AI safely and responsibly.

Key risks to consider

With AI being applied in so many areas, businesses need to consider many risks:

Risk of not adopting AI
This may sound counterintuitive, but assessing the gains and losses of AI adoption is key to understanding and managing other risks.

Regulatory compliance risks
Rapidly evolving AI regulations make this a dynamic risk requiring frequent reassessment. Beyond AI-specific regulations, organizations must also consider associated risks, like violations of personal data processing laws.

ESG risks
These include social and ethical concerns surrounding AI and risks of exposing sensitive information.

Risk of AI misuse
From silly to malicious use cases, users will use AI in unintended ways.

AI models and training datasets threats
Attackers will target the data used to train AI systems and compromise their integrity.

Company services integrating AI threats
These will impact the broader IT ecosystem.

Data security risks
The data processed within AI-enabled services may be vulnerable to attacks.

The last three categories encapsulate the challenges of traditional cybersecurity in complex cloud infrastructures: access control, network segmentation, vulnerability management, monitoring, supply chain security and more.

Aspects of safe AI deployment

Safe AI deployment requires a balanced approach that combines both organizational and technical measures. These can be categorized into the following areas:

Organizational measures

Employee training and leadership education. Educate staff and leadership on AI risks and mitigation tools so you have an informed workforce to manage AI challenges.

Supply chain security. Scrutinize the source of AI models and tools. Make sure all resources come from verified, secure providers to reduce vulnerabilities.

Technical measures

Infrastructure security. A robust security infrastructure is necessary, incorporating identity management, event logging, network segmentation, and advanced detection tools like Extended Detection and Response (XDR).

Testing and validation. Thorough testing ensures AI models comply with industry standards, remain resilient to improper inputs, and meet specific business requirements.

Bias detection and correction. Detecting and addressing biases, especially when models are trained on non-representative datasets, is key to fairness and accuracy.

Transparency mechanisms. User-friendly systems for reporting vulnerabilities or biases helps organizations to build trust and improve AI systems over time.

Adaptation and compliance

Timely updates and compatibility management. Structured processes for updates and compatibility are needed to keep up with the fast pace of AI evolution.

Regulatory compliance. Staying aligned with emerging AI laws and regulations is an ongoing effort, requiring dedicated resources to ensure compliance with latest standards.

Practical implications

Deploying AI means focusing on risk management and security. Identifying vulnerabilities early through threat modeling allows businesses to address potential issues before they become problems. This proactive approach reduces the likelihood of costly mistakes and ensures smoother integration of AI systems.

A secure infrastructure is equally important. By implementing strict access controls and continuous monitoring, businesses can safeguard both their AI models and the IT environments they run in. Security measures must go beyond the models themselves, protecting the entire ecosystem that supports AI functionality.

Employee training plays a big role in responsible use of AI. Teams need to work effectively with these systems and leadership need to understand the risks and manage them. Proper preparation ensures a company-wide culture of accountability and awareness.

Thorough testing and validation of AI models are non-negotiable. These processes ensure that the systems perform reliably under different conditions and align with ethical standards. Testing uncovers weaknesses in data handling and decision-making, which can be addressed before the systems go live.

Supply chain security is another key element. Organizations must carefully vet their providers and ensure all AI models and tools come from trusted sources. This reduces the risk of vulnerabilities introduced through third-party dependencies. Addressing biases in AI models, such as those stemming from unrepresentative datasets, is equally crucial for maintaining fairness and reliability.

To maintain long-term system integrity, companies should have clear processes for reporting vulnerabilities. Allowing users and external experts to report issues improves system reliability over time. Regular updates and prompt fixes for compatibility issues are essential, as the fast pace of AI development means libraries and tools change quickly.

By integrating these practices, businesses can achieve a balance between leveraging AI’s potential and managing its inherent risks.

The road ahead

AI offers immense potential, but its successful and safe deployment requires foresight, planning, and continuous vigilance. By managing risks proactively, companies can harness AI’s benefits while minimizing its risks. Moreover, collaborative efforts between policymakers, industry leaders and researchers are essential to creating a safer and more innovative AI ecosystem.

Recommendations for the safe integration of AI systems

Cybersecurity

Nov 15, 2024 — 5 min read

What do a 15-year-old hacker, Julian Assange, inattentive administrators, and the War Thunder forum have in common? They were all involved in data leaks from the Pentagon. This article will explore several of the most prominent examples of leaks linked to one of the world's most secure agencies, as well as discuss the experience of interaction between the U.S. Department of Defense and ethical hackers.

Jonathan James

According to the U.S. Department of Defense, the first hacking of the Pentagon occurred in 1999 by a 15-year-old named Jonathan James, known among hackers as C0mrade. Jonathan found a server with a backdoor that allowed anyone to connect. He connected to the server, installed a sniffer, and gained access to all the traffic. This server belonged to a unit of the Department of Defense. Within a month, the boy intercepted numerous credentials, which he used to access the Department of Defense computers and download a vast amount of emails from Pentagon employees' mailboxes. Jonathan did all this not for personal gain but out of simple curiosity. Naturally, the intrusion was noticed, investigated, and the juvenile perpetrator was found. Jonathan's case is unique because he became the first minor in the U.S. to go to jail specifically for hacking.

Gary McKinnon

Two years after Jonathan James's story, another young hacker managed to breach this fortress alone. In January 2001, Gary McKinnon, a systems administrator from London, first broke into the American military computer system. Instead of wondering "how to hack the Pentagon," he simply found a flaw in the security system. Gary created a Perl program that identified administrator-status computers without a password. To the U.S. military ministry's embarrassment, there were many such machines. For 13 whole months, Gary studied the contents of Pentagon and later NASA computers unpunished. He was searching for evidence of extraterrestrial life and, according to him, found it. A year after his first intrusion, Gary was exposed, but he managed to avoid responsibility because a wave of protest arose, and the UK authorities did not extradite him to the U.S.

Julian Assange

Discussing whether the Pentagon was hacked, one cannot overlook Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks. Since 2006, the portal has been publishing classified materials from the Pentagon and other U.S. law enforcement agencies. It is not known for certain whether Assange hacked government servers himself or if he received documents from third parties. But as the creator and distributor of information, he faces numerous charges, with a total criminal sentence of 175 years of imprisonment.

Edward Snowden

To extract and publicize classified Pentagon documents, hacking is not always necessary. Sometimes the danger lies within the employees themselves, who disagree with the methods of the military ministry. The most striking example is Edward Snowden. In 2013, he was an employee of the military system and had access to classified documentation. He learned about the massive U.S. surveillance of citizens of various countries around the world. Deciding to disclose the data, Snowden downloaded nearly 2 million secret documents onto a flash drive and took it out of the NSA office hidden in a simple Rubik's Cube. Then came the publications in the world media, major disclosures, accusations of espionage, fleeing the country, and a safe haven in Russia. It should be noted that there was also no selfish motive in this case.

Case of Jack Teixeira

In 2023, a loud scandal erupted related to the leak of classified Pentagon documents. Their photos appeared on the Discord platform, the 4Chan forum, Twitter, and some Telegram channels. Initially, it was thought that the Russians had hacked the Pentagon, but it later turned out that the leak was again related to a person working in the system and having access to secret information. Later, the world was shocked by footage of the arrest of Jack Teixeira—an Air Force pilot in red shorts being led by heavily armed American special forces. The information published by Teixeira contained secret documents concerning the conflict in Ukraine and revealing U.S. surveillance of partner countries. Jack was accused of espionage and now faces many years in an American prison.

Curious Cases

There have been many curious cases in the history of the Pentagon and similar agencies that led to the disclosure of official information. For example, last year a story surfaced about a typo that caused letters from the U.S. Department of Defense to go to mail addresses in Mali for years. Confidential information about U.S. (and French) military technology often surfaced on the War Thunder game forums so frequently that moderators had to publicly explain why their forum became a treasure trove of secret drawings. The U.S. military department did not overlook careless administrators either. Data can be found on at least one case when an unprotected Pentagon server with sensitive information was "shining" online for a long time. There are probably more such unpublicized incidents.

Pentagon and ethical hackers

If the human factor problem is solved by tightening internal policies toward employees, the Pentagon website and the entire U.S. Department of Defense infrastructure are protected by ethical hackers. As early as 2016, a government vulnerability search program called Hack the Pentagon was launched on the HackerOne platform. More than 100 potential breaches in ministry defense were discovered, and over 1,400 pentesters participated in the project. The number of participants is easily explainable. First, hacking the Pentagon online is the dream of any hacker. Secondly, the first bug bounty program of the Ministry of Defense was conducted on a paid basis. Individual payouts ranged from $100 to $15,000, with a total budget of $75,000. The next program was conducted in 2018 and focused on publicly accessible websites of the Ministry of Defense.

By the end of 2020, the department was hacked more than 12,000 times, but within controlled tests. Hackers were no longer paid for finding vulnerabilities but were awarded points on the HackerOne platform. The start of the third bug bounty program of the Pentagon was announced in 2023. But this time, hackers were invited to try to penetrate systems that control mechanical operations, such as heating and air conditioning in the main building, the Pentagon's heating and cooling installation, a modular office complex, and a parking lot. The task of the hackers is to identify weaknesses and vulnerabilities and provide recommendations for improving and strengthening the overall security situation.

Conclusion

It is naive to think that in the modern world there are objects that simply cannot be hacked. And the Pentagon is no exception. Today we have told only a few stories related to hacking and data leakage from the U.S. military department. But there are many more incidents that have not been publicly disclosed. Meanwhile, the Pentagon does not close itself off and actively uses external specialists to find vulnerabilities and weak spots in the system. This is the right tactic that helps the ministry improve its cybersecurity and respond more intelligently to attempts at penetration.

The unshakable fortress: Hacks, leaks, and pentagon bug bounty programs

Case study Passwork

Nov 8, 2024 — 3 min read

Kindernothilfe (KNH) is a German non-profit organization dedicated to supporting vulnerable children in impoverished and underprivileged regions worldwide. Founded in 1959, it has made significant contributions as one of Europe’s largest charities dedicated to child aid. Operating in over 30 countries, Kindernothilfe emphasizes the importance of ensuring children’s rights and providing access to education, healthcare, child protection, and community development initiatives, all aimed at enhancing children’s living conditions and eradicating poverty.

Company
Kindernothilfe
Location
Duisburg, Germany
Industry
Nonprofit organization
Company size
Over 300 employees in more than 30 countries
Passwork license type
500 users

The challenge: Finding a secure and user-friendly solution for global teams

Before choosing Passwork, Kindernothilfe relied on KeePass, a solution that limited scalability and lacked user-friendly features essential for a globally operating organization. With over 300 employees across more than 30 countries, the organization required a secure, scalable, and intuitive password management solution.

Doing so was crucial to meet the growing demands of its international team, especially for enhancing password sharing and access management capabilities for remote employees.

The solution: Switching to Passwork for improved security and simplified user access

Kindernothilfe opted for Passwork for its robust self-hosting capabilities, ensuring optimal data control and security. The seamless integration with SAML2 for Single Sign-On (SSO) streamlined access management across multiple platforms.

Furthermore, Passwork’s intuitive interface, along with its mobile app and browser extension, made it possible to manage passwords effortlessly from any device. The secure password-sharing features enhanced team collaboration, significantly reducing human error and improving overall security protocols.

The implementation: Gradual rollout and building a secure infrastructure

The implementation process took approximately two months. It was primarily focused on establishing and thoroughly testing the infrastructure to ensure Passwork met Kindernothilfe’s security requirements. The integration of SAML2 for Single Sign-On (SSO) was smooth and completed within a short timeframe.

To facilitate the successful implementation of Passwork, Kindernothilfe opted for a phased rollout rather than deploying the password management solution organization-wide all at once. They began with a smaller group of employees to showcase the benefits of the system and gradually promoted its use.

While organizing various promotional and educational activities, such as “Lunch and Learn” events, the organization encouraged employees to engage with Passwork. The goal was to achieve the point where at least 50% of the staff actively used Passwork before expanding the system to the entire organization.

The results: Increasing operational efficiency for cross-border teams

Currently, approximately 50% of the staff are actively using Passwork—a centralized, secure, and user-friendly solution for password sharing. This incremental approach not only ensured higher user engagement but also significantly strengthened security protocols across the organization.

By improving password management processes, Kindernothilfe increased its overall operational efficiency, especially for cross-border teams. Educational initiatives, such as “Lunch and Learn” sessions, were instrumental in raising awareness about Passwork and facilitating its successful adoption throughout the organization.

"Passwork met our needs with its affordable pricing and ease of use, making it an essential tool for our global workforce" — Bernd Schlürmann, network and security manager

Kindernothilfe: Simplifying global employee collaboration with Passwork

Cybersecurity

Nov 6, 2024 — 4 min read

The introduction of children to technology is happening at an increasingly younger age. This early exposure to the digital world, while beneficial in many ways, also carries significant risks due to the evolving tactics of cybercriminals. Parents must stay updated on the latest cybersecurity threats targeting young internet users to ensure their safety.

Today, we aim to shed light on various cybersecurity trends and provide practical advice for parents to safeguard their children's online presence.

AI and its impact on young users

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming numerous industries, and its applications are becoming a part of daily life, from chatbots to personalized online shopping experiences. This technological advancement naturally attracts the curiosity of children, who often use AI tools for educational purposes or entertainment. A UN study indicated that approximately 80% of young participants interact with AI multiple times daily. However, these interactions are not without risks, including data privacy breaches, exposure to cyber threats, and inappropriate content.

Children often use AI applications for seemingly innocuous activities like photo editing. These apps might prompt users to upload personal photos, which could then be stored in unknown databases or used in ways the user did not intend. Parents must guide their children in using these applications cautiously, ensuring no personal information is visible in the background of photos or shared through the app.

AI chatbots, while useful, can sometimes provide content that is not age-appropriate. Imagine a scenario where a parent has installed an AI chatbot on their child's smartphone to assist with homework and answer educational questions. One day, the child decides to ask the chatbot a seemingly innocent question about birds. However, instead of receiving a child-friendly response, the chatbot generates inappropriate content related to adult topics or includes explicit language, causing the child to stumble upon content that is not age-appropriate.

In this example, the AI chatbot, though designed to be helpful, has failed to filter or moderate its responses properly, leading to a potentially harmful and inappropriate experience for the child.

The world of gaming and its hidden dangers

Gaming is a popular activity among children, with statistics showing that 91% of children in the UK aged 3-15 play digital games. This vast digital playground, however, also exposes them to potential attacks from cybercriminals. In 2022 alone, security solutions identified over seven million attacks related to popular children's games, marking a significant increase from the previous year. Games designed for younger children, such as Poppy Playtime and Toca Life World, were targeted.

The gaming environment often includes unmoderated voice and text chats, which can be a breeding ground for cybercriminals. These criminals can build virtual trust with young players, similar to how they would in person, by offering gifts or promises of friendship. Once trust is established, they can extract personal information, encourage clicking on phishing links, or even groom the children for more sinister purposes.

Moreover, when children can't find an app or game in their region, they might look for alternatives, which often turn out to be harmful copies. This danger exists even on trusted platforms like Google Play. Between 2020 and 2022, the research identified over 190 apps infected with the Harly Trojan on Google Play, secretly signing up users for paid services. The downloads of these apps are estimated at 4.8 million, but the real number of victims could be higher.

Both children and adults are vulnerable to this trend. Understanding cybersecurity basics is crucial. For instance, it's vital to examine the permissions an app seeks when you install it. Consider a basic flashlight app – it has no reason to request access to your text messages or camera. Being alert to these details is crucial for maintaining online security.

Fintech for kids: Opportunities and risks

One emerging trend is the development of financial products and services tailored for children as young as 12. These specialized offerings, such as bank cards and digital wallets designed for kids, present both promising opportunities and notable risks for young consumers and their parents.

Opportunities:

Financial Education: Fintech products for kids can be powerful tools for teaching financial literacy from an early age.
Parental Control: Fintech solutions designed for children often come with built-in parental control features. These features allow parents to monitor their child's spending, set spending limits, and receive real-time notifications of transactions.
Digital Payments: In an increasingly cashless society, introducing children to digital payments and financial technology at a young age can help them adapt to the changing financial landscape.

Risks:

Cybersecurity Threats: As fintech products for children gain popularity, they become attractive targets for cybercriminals. Cybersecurity risks include phishing scams, identity theft, and data breaches.
Social Engineering: Cybercriminals may use social engineering tactics to manipulate children into revealing sensitive information or making unauthorized transactions.
Financial Implications: While fintech products offer financial education opportunities, they also expose children to the risk of overspending or making unwise financial decisions.

Navigating online privacy with growing children

As children mature, they develop a greater understanding of personal space and privacy, which extends to their online activities. With the internet becoming more accessible, children are increasingly conscious of these aspects. Therefore, when parents decide to install digital parenting apps on their children's devices, the reaction from the kids might not always be positive.

This situation necessitates that parents develop the ability to effectively communicate with their children about their online experiences and the significance of using digital parenting tools for their safety, while also respecting their personal space. It's important to set clear boundaries and explain the purpose of these apps to the children. Regularly checking in with them and modifying the app's restrictions as the child grows and becomes more responsible is also crucial for maintaining a healthy balance.

A quick note on smart home devices

As a final thought, to ensure that this article is comprehensive, it’s important to note that the rise of smart home devices has made life more convenient but also more vulnerable to cyberattacks. Children, who are often users of these devices, can unknowingly become targets for cybercriminals. For example, some security studies on a popular smart pet feeder uncovered serious vulnerabilities that could allow unauthorized access and data theft. Parents must ensure the security of these devices and educate their children on safe usage practices.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, as technology continues to advance, so do the challenges and risks associated with its use, particularly for young users. Parents play a critical role in educating and protecting their children from these evolving cyber threats. By staying informed and engaging in regular discussions about online safety, parents can help ensure a safer digital environment for their children.

Guarding the digital playground: Parent's guide to cybersecurity

Oct 31, 2024 — 3 min read

The technology of virtual reality, which has spread relatively recently, is rapidly evolving and gaining popularity. Manufacturing companies are actively developing and experimenting with this new technology. Virtual reality is used not only in the entertainment industry but also in science, education, medicine, architecture, and others. For cybercriminals, access to such data can become an attractive target.

At present, cases of hacking VR headsets and glasses are not widespread, but as virtual reality technologies develop and their popularity increases, it can be expected that such attacks will become more relevant for cybercriminals. Examples of cases may include vulnerabilities in the software of VR devices, which can be used for remote control or for collecting confidential information. In the future, with an increase in the number of VR technology users, the likelihood of such device hacks may increase.

VR technology

Virtual reality is a technology that allows users to immerse in a three-dimensional virtual world using technical means. A person can either simply observe another reality through glasses—watching 360-degree videos—or interact with it by playing games using controllers.

A full VR set includes a headset, controllers, and cameras. The headset creates the sensation that the player is in another reality—he or she can see and hear it. Motion sensors and accelerometers provide additional opportunities to fully immerse in the game. With controllers, one can perform actions and control their movements in the game, while cameras additionally collect information—reading the player's movements and warning if the player approaches set boundaries in real life, for example, a wall or furniture.

It's also important to highlight the capabilities of devices operating in augmented reality mode, where a person simultaneously sees both the good old "analog" world and virtual interfaces with which they can also interact.

Risks and information security threats when using VR

Cybercriminals may be interested in users' confidential data. By finding vulnerabilities in a VR application and hacking it, they can gain access to cameras and microphones.

Hacking VR headsets is a serious violation of users' privacy and security. Hackers can exploit vulnerabilities in the software or hardware of devices to access users' personal data, including location information, physiological parameters, and even video and audio recordings of virtual reality sessions. This can lead to various negative consequences, including theft of personal information, blackmail, privacy breaches, and even physical danger.

Cybercriminals can also deploy VR exploits to gain control over players' devices. In this case, they have access to the PC, can activate the microphone to eavesdrop, monitor user actions, and collect various information, including bank transactions, logins, and passwords.

If malicious software replicates itself, it can infect all visitors in a virtual room. This allows for collecting data about many people at once, monitoring their actions, encrypting files on their PCs, and then blackmailing them for ransom to restore access. When using a VR headset or set in business, hacking will have more serious consequences. A computer connected to a VR device becomes an entry point for cybercriminals into the corporate network.

Data protection and ensuring virtual reality security

To protect devices from hacking, it's necessary to understand the threat level and take security seriously. Here are some recommendations for protection.

Regularly update the VR headset software to eliminate identified vulnerabilities and provide protection against new types of cyber threats. Connect only to secure Wi-Fi networks with data encryption (such as WPA2). Also, avoid open and unreliable networks to prevent interception of personal information.

It's important to protect access to the VR headset with a password or other authentication methods to prevent unauthorized access to the device. VR headset applications should be downloaded only from official stores to avoid installing malicious software. Finally, if possible, configure access rights to the device's data and functions to limit third-party applications' access to personal information. Following these measures will reduce the risk of cyber threats and ensure the safe use of VR headsets online.

Also important not to neglect updating your devices' software, as cybercriminals are constantly looking for new ways to access others' devices. Companies, in turn, promptly fix vulnerabilities in their products. For example, Apple released the first security patch fixing a zero-day vulnerability for Apple Vision Pro the day after journalists published reviews.

Conclusion

The use of virtual and augmented reality is rapidly evolving. New ways of applying it are found in various fields. There are not many cases related to the hacking of VR headsets and VR sets. However, experts predict an increase in attacks by cybercriminals in the future, proportional to the spread of VR technologies.

Using vulnerabilities in VR devices, cybercriminals can collect confidential data, record audio from microphones, and video from cameras, and even gain control over PCs and access corporate systems. To avoid this, it's necessary to take precautions: update software in time, not share access data with anyone, connect only through reliable Wi-Fi networks, and install VR applications only from official stores.

New reality, same threats: How to safely use VR headsets and glasses

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Table of contents

Introduction

Why cybersecurity is crucial for small businesses

The growing threat of cyberattacks

Why are small businesses vulnerable

Key reasons for implementing cybersecurity measures

Essential cybersecurity checklist for small businesses

Identify your most valuable assets

Develop a cyber security policy

Use a password manager

Secure your mobile devices

Use strong passwords

Implement two-factor or multi-factor authentication

Plan for incident response

Protect your online accounts and identity

Engage with cybersecurity professionals

Stop ransomware

Back up and update

Foster good online habits

Cybersecurity FAQ

Can ransomware attacks target small businesses?

What is the importance of cybersecurity for small businesses?

How can small businesses protect against ransomware?

What are some common cyber security measures for small businesses?

How often should I update my passwords?

Why should small businesses engage with cybersecurity professionals?

How can small businesses create a cybersecurity plan?

Quick takeaways

Conclusion

Further reading:

Сybersecurity checklist for small businesses

Table of contents

Introduction

The compliance trap: Why policies fall flat

The real reason employees tune out

Training vs. transformation

Third-party risk: The unseen threat

Password mismanagement: Still the weakest link

Automating GRC without alienation

Leadership role in building security-first culture

Final thoughts

Further reading:

Why do employees ignore cybersecurity policies?

Table of contents

What is the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES)?

Where is AES encryption used?

How AES encryption works?

Advantages of AES encryption

Attacks on AES encryption

How to prevent attacks on AES encryption

How does AES compare to other encryption?

AES-128 vs. AES-256

AES vs. RSA

AES vs. DES

AES encryption FAQ

Is AES symmetric or asymmetric?

What is AES 128 vs. 192 vs. 256?

Is 128-Bit AES secure?

Is AES the best encryption method?

How Passwork can help with encryption

Further reading:

What is the Advanced Encryption Standard

Table of contents

Introduction

What is a cybersecurity risk assessment?

Key components of a cybersecurity risk assessment

Analogy: Cybersecurity risk assessment is like a home security audit

The risks of neglecting cyber risk assessments

The importance of cyber risk assessment

Why businesses must conduct cyber risk assessments

Who should perform a cyber risk assessment?

Internal IT teams vs. third-party assessments

Different approaches to cyber risk

Common cybersecurity risks and threats

How to perform a cybersecurity risk assessment

Benefits of cybersecurity risk assessments

Conclusion

Further reading:

What is a cybersecurity risk assessment?