Network Vulnerabilities 101: Types and Prevention Methods
A network vulnerability is a flaw or weakness in your IT processes that could allow someone to gain access, steal data, or otherwise cause you harm.
There are several types of vulnerabilities in network security. Some of them you probably know quite well. Others might surprise you.
We'll walk you through a list of common network vulnerabilities, and we'll end with a few steps to follow if you think you're experiencing a consequence of a vulnerability.
6 types of vulnerabilities in network security
Think of vulnerabilities as chinks in your armour. Some are large enough for you to spot quickly, and others might elude your attention for weeks, months, or even years.
When you’re surveying your security landscape for potential problems, consider this list of common network vulnerabilities.
1. Devices
Hackers could use anything connected to your network against you, especially if devices aren't authorised or managed properly.
Your security landscape probably includes:
- Connected phones
- Computers
- Routers
- Servers
Do users secure these devices with strong passwords? Are they locked when unattended? Does the IT team know about all of them, or do employees use their own phones and computers?
2. Firewalls
You can place a layer of protection between the open web and your server with a firewall. But don't rely on that tool blindly. If you misconfigure it, hackers could see all of your traffic or take it over.
That's just what happened to Capital One Financial in 2019. Hackers discovered that the company's firewall wasn't set up properly, and they stole personal information linked to 106 million people before the financial institution spotted the problem.
3. IoT tools
The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to devices that are connected to the internet, even if they don't have a keyboard or a mouse. Everything from doorbells to refrigerators to exercise machines is part of the IoT, and they all could cause a breach.
IoT devices often come with preset security measures that are tough to change, and the items may have firmware you can't update. The longer they stay connected, the easier they are to hack.
For example, in 2017, hackers gained access to a casino database through a fish tank thermometer connected to the internet.
4. Malware
Malicious computer programs run on your servers and do things you never intend to do. Malware is a major threat for companies, and it can take many forms.
Scareware, for example, entices clicks by convincing victims that they need to download files or click on buttons. And ransomware attacks follow, in which victims must pay a fee to regain file access.
Some forms of malware deploy via social engineering. Hackers use something they know (such as a victim's name) or something they guess (such as something a victim needs) to e