5 Endpoint Security Myths
Protecting a central corporate network when it is being accessed through various endpoints such as mobile devices, laptops, computers etc. is known as Endpoint Security. This security can be done using a vulnerability management tool.
Superstitions and myths related to many things have been going on for generations. So how can we leave behind myths on endpoint security? A patch management solution is always there if things go sideways. Here are some Endpoint Security Myths:
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Macs are safer than Windows.
A misconception that users have is that Mac is any day safer than Windows. The increasing number of AV installs among Mac users makes Macs increasingly alluring to cyber criminals. They understand that there are numerous machines waiting to be hacked. Though the malware attack rate on Mac is less when compared to Windows, the attack rate was most dynamic this year. New malwares are being discovered and this trend is expected to go on. What users fail to realize is that web-based threats occur regardless of the operating system.
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Virtual environments are safer than physical environments.
One of the Endpoint Security Myths is that Virtual networks are becoming a bigger target as they act as a host for serious business operations. Virtualization designed to allow software to work in its normal mode. Any weak business networks that help to accomplish hackers’ goals are a target to all malware writers. The data on the physical network is the held the same way as it is in the virtual network. Virtual machines maybe the doorway to a server; but either way the hackers want access to the data. Compromising one virtual machine will allow them to replicate their code across all virtual machines on the same physical server. This will increase their opportunity to steal important business data.
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Only important endpoints are attacked.
Nowadays all endpoints, be it big or small are subject to attack. An internet connection and a processing power – these are the 2 ingredients that hackers need to send spam or use your system and make few bucks. What will they get by hacking my system? A question everyone asks. But we are wrong here as well. Anyone can be a victim of cyber-attack. All that hackers need is an easy threat environment to make some profit. Moreover, the social media platforms these days makes it easier for the hackers to get information and execute a threat. This is one of the Endpoint Security Myths.
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Different security rules for mobile devices.
For some reason, users believe that mobile device security is different from system security which encrypted and forgotten. With an extensive amount of user information, passwords and data, mobile devices are just as tempting as laptops! The data accessed on their mobile device, the pages they visit or the applications that they use are similar to how it’s done on a laptop or PC. We need to set the right policies, include vulnerability and configuration management, monitor the devices and treat the mobile devices as endpoints.
- It is the device that has to be safeguarded.
Endpoint security myths may start from the device but that’s not just where it ends. Users trust that the software on every endpoint device monitored and hence it will be threat free. If your personal device which has any malicious program connected to a corporate network, that leads to a security breach. Instant detection of infected devices scrutinized with a network monitoring and analysis solution that will track any threats.
These are the 5 Endpoint Security Myths
-Rini Thomas