Risky Endpoints – Effects of Work From Home / Anywhere
"Encryption works. Properly implemented strong crypto systems are one of the few things that you can rely on. Unfortunately, endpoint security is so terrifically weak that NSA can frequently find ways around it." – Edward Snowden
Why does Endpoint Security matter more in this post pandemic world?
A quick refresher: an endpoint is any device that is connected to the computer network - right? Hence, even if one device of a computer network is vulnerable the whole network can be compromised. With work from home and work from anywhere structure, securing all the endpoints can be challenging for the organizations.
Some of the most common endpoint security risks include:
APT – Advanced Persistent Threats. APTs refer to groups that gain access to a network and remain undetected for a long period
Botnet Attacks. A botnet is any device that has been compromised and can be remotely controlled by unauthorized personnel
DDoS – Distributed Denial of Service
Malware ads - Also known as malvertising
Ransomware - This type of malware encrypts all of the users’ files, making them inaccessible unless a ransom is paid
We now know some of the endpoint security risks. But, what are the challenges that are preventing an effective protection for the end points? Here they are:
Limited Resources – Even though the gaps have been identified, the organization may not have all the resources to fill the gaps. Unplanned budgets allocations are a chronic issue.
Dependency on various security solutions - A workstation and office server may have the necessary security software within the same network, but most mobile endpoints like smartphones and personal laptops may not have the same safeguards.
Human Element – Humans can be the strongest and the weakest link. We may have the best resources and best of security solutions, however if the person handling them are weak then the devices still remain vulnerable.
There is a good article on Endpoint Security from McAfee. You can read it here.
Well, that being said, how to protect your organization?
Get your Organization to stay aware. Awareness is key. Get a complete risk assessment done. Reach out to us now.
At Gorisco, our motto is 'Embedding Resilience' and we are committed to make the organizations and their workforce resilient. Reach out to us if you have any queries, clarifications or need any support on your initiatives.
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