The year 2021 was only the tip of the iceberg of what is to come of Cyberattacks. According to the CSE, Communications Security Establishment, they illustrated that cyber-attacks have increased by ‘151% in the first half of 2021 in comparison to 2020.’
Last year we saw an alarming increase of hackers targeting Canadian Key Infrastructures. Between January 1st and November 30th, there were ‘235 ransomware attacks and over half of them were critical infrastructures.’ The events in question have now labeled the ransomware attacks as “Brazen, sophisticated, increasing in frequency, and, for the cyber criminals very profitable”.
To recover from these attacks alone, companies are now expected to pay up to $1.8million.
As result of the global pandemic, and the recent attacks of numerous Canadian key infrastructures, it has made organizations more mindful of the risks tied to losing access to their networks.
Critical key Infrastructures are not the only victims, threat actors also target small to mid-sized companies. This is attributed to the lack of preventive measures imposed to prevent such attacks. Organizations that refuse to invest in their security are now realizing the cost of doing business.
The top Key Infrastructures attacked in 2021
- Newfoundland and Labrador health care system attacks went down in history as one of the biggest cyberattacks ever to occur. Hackers obtained valuable information not only from the workers but from every registered patient. This attack took place in November, and they are still feeling the effects of the attack.
- Humber River Hospital in Toronto also fell victim to a ransomware attack. They experienced zero-day ransomware of a new malware variant, resulting in shutting down all IT systems including patient health record systems.
- In late October the Toronto Transit Commission also faced a ransomware attack, resulting in attackers obtaining the information of over ‘25,000 current and former employees.’ The TTC has still yet to release any more info on the nature of the attack.
It’s predicted for the year 2022, Ransomware attacks will become aggressive. Remember to be proactive and not reactive, it is advised to improve Cyber security and adopt best practices to harden critical systems.
IT 2022 Resolutions
With the new year’s arrival, let’s kick off the year by being Cybersmart. Follow these 4 simple resolutions:
1. Update all Passwords: Make it your new year’s resolution to update/change all passwords, which will help you prevent unauthorized or inappropriate access to emails, banking, and social accounts. A strong password entails a minimum of 12 characters which includes special characters and numbers. Quick Tip: Use a password manager so you can keep track of all your passwords in a safe place. For more information on the importance of having a strong password by clicking the following link: https://idealogical.com/resources/blog/do-you-have-a-strong-password-policy-to-protect-your-business
2. Install two factor-authentication: If possible, investigate installing two-factor authentication where applicable. This is an electronic verification method that requires a person to provide two forms of identity proof before accessing an application, network, or website. It will give an extra layer of protection to weak usernames and passwords.
3. Latest Security Updates: Like spring cleaning, do some tech cleaning. Update all devices which are personally Internet-connect devices. Make a list of all household devices, ensure they are all up to date. Quick Tip: If a device can no longer be updated due to outdated operating systems. Dispose of the devices safely.
4. Be Cyber Aware: Teach your family about being cyber secure and teach young adults and children to be safe online.
Idealogical Announcement: Meet the recruits
Alicia
Alicia came aboard the Idealogical train in hopes of new and exciting challenges, but before she bought the ticket, her background was within the healthcare Industry. Already, Alicia knew the importance of taking care of herself and helping others do the same through on-the-job interactions. Alicia is a true guru, finding the perfect work-life balance; during the week, she balances work while challenging herself to be the next weightlifting champion…. or the winner of boardgame Night. While on weekends, she becomes a food connoisseur, trying out many different restaurants.
Jeremy
In a galaxy far far away, there was a Tech Jedi called Jeremy enjoying IT on another planet. Then one day he decided to hop on a ship and come aboard to work at Idealogical. Jeremy is the BFG (Big, Friendly, Giant) of our team; he is as tall as he is friendly. From the very beginning, once Jeremy enters the room, he brings fun and laughter to the table. Whether it be funny stories, comedic humor, or sarcastic comments, he brings it all. On the weekend, you will find Jeremy taking care of his little ones.
Catherine
Catherine is from the land of the Irish; her passion for discovering the outside world led her to Idealogical. Catherine’s eagerness and passion for IT-focused marketing grows every day. Quick tip before meeting her, you better listen closely. There are rumors that she can talk a million miles a second; if you stop, you will be lost in translation. DO WHAT WE DO; SMILE AND NOD. If you cannot find Catherine, go to the nearest all you can eat. She loves Korean BBQ, and you are guaranteed to find her eating short ribs.
Daniel
Daniels’s love for IT blossomed in his hometown in Colombia. This is where he began building his IT skills and expertise around different tools which enabled him to adapt to any environment around the world. Although he is now part of the Idealogical family, you would never know. Daniel is as quiet as a mouse. Like his IT neighbor, Steven, he enjoys listening to others rather than talking. But don’t be fooled by Daniels’s quiet nature! On the weekend, he lives the life of a Rockstar. If he is not jamming out to his guitar or piano, he is practicing FLYING in ultralight planes.
Download the PDF version of this newsletter below.