What Is Hacking and How Can It Affect Your Business?
Hacking is the exploitation of vulnerabilities in computer systems and networks with malicious intent. It requires a combination of technical knowledge, problem-solving skills and creativity to bypass security measures to steal data or cause disruptions in business operations. Hacking is a growing concern for many organizations, particularly those that rely on their IT infrastructure to function.
The word “hacking” has a surprisingly long history, dating back to the 1950s at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) when students would break apart electrical systems and train sets for fun to find clever solutions. The term grew to encompass tinkering with and modifying technologies in ways their creators didn’t intend, which led to its modern use to mean gaining unauthorized access to computer systems.
Malicious hackers have a variety of tools at their disposal to breach a target’s defenses, including packet sniffers that analyze network traffic for signs of vulnerable devices; port scanners that remotely test devices for open ports that hackers can exploit; and malware such as ransomware that locks up the victim’s data or device, demanding a payment in order to return it. Additionally, hackers may be able to cover their tracks by deleting log files or changing system configurations to avoid detection for extended periods of time.
To prevent a hacking attack, businesses should take steps to implement strong cyber security measures and provide regular cybersecurity training for their employees. They should also backup critical data, utilize strong passwords, and take precautionary measures such as avoiding public Wi-Fi when possible, and properly dispose of electronic devices that no longer have use.