Hack Your Own Network To Prevent Attacks: Vulnerability & Penetration Testing

Can Your Network Withstand An Attack?

Hackers are constantly on the lookout for networks they can exploit, and you don’t have to be a Fortune 500 company to find yourself in their crosshairs. It’s an unfortunate truth that it’s merely a matter of time before your network is attacked in one manner or another by hackers or scammers intent on stealing sensitive information for personal gain. This truth is widely understood, yet still, when an attack succeeds, it is very often to the astonishment of the victim.

Don’t Become Complacent.

While many people believe network attacks are elaborate, Hollywood-style heists (think men in a van frantically typing away on computers), the truth is that most are random, easily spotted by a trained eye, and simply crimes of opportunity. A trap is laid, an unsuspecting employee clicks a link, and the attack is on. Often, ensuring that all employees are thoroughly trained in how to spot and avoid these traps is enough to avoid major problems. But sometimes, hackers are more deliberate in their planning and sophisticated with their methods.

Don’t Be Surprised.

The truth is, all networks have vulnerabilities. Building a “perfect” network is virtually impossible, but that doesn’t mean you can’t stay a step ahead. There are a variety of methods for testing your IT network’s security. A few options for you to consider are:

  1. A Vulnerability Assessment, which reviews your network for possible shortcomings and categorizes risk factors, providing clarity and direction for your IT network development going forward.
  2. Penetration Testing, which takes this test from theoretical to a real-life scenario. With this method, security experts, sometimes called “ethical hackers,” will simulate a real-life attack on your network. Without doing actual damage, they will search for and exploit system weaknesses to see exactly how far into your network they can go, determining not only where the system failure is, but how it can be exploited, and exactly what data is at risk.

These testing methods can be completed independently of each other or together as part of an in-depth process. Which option is best for you will depend on your unique needs. Either way, the goal is to remove the element of surprise hackers rely on. By taking a proactive approach to data security, you can eliminate weak points and reduce the risk of a successful attack on your network. If you’re not sure what option is best for you, ANC Group can help review your needs and determine the best option.

Don’t Let Your Guard Down.

Ultimately, the key to network security is to never stop improving. Too often, once a network is established and running well, it is no longer a financial or strategic priority until something goes terribly wrong. By then, it’s too late. Hackers rely on security complacency to exploit targets. By never letting your guard down and consistently seeking to improve, you will significantly reduce your odds of a harmful data breach.

Conclusion

Are you certain that your online assets are shielded from potential threats? ANC Group invites you to take control of your digital security by booking a comprehensive security assessment with our expert team. Uncover vulnerabilities, conduct penetration testing, and receive tailored strategies to bolster your cyber defenses. Safeguard your peace of mind and business integrity.