If you have a website for your business, you need to understand how it is involved with overall cybersecurity. If you don’t, you could be putting your business and customers at risk. Here is what you need to know:
The Risks
Cybersecurity is of utmost importance in today’s world. Hackers from anywhere can gain access to your computer, phone, or website from anywhere else. All it takes them is a little time, some tools, and the determination to steal your information or worse. For this reason, you need to make sure your website is secure. Web designers focus on SEO and analytics generally (which is rather important these days), but when it comes to security here is what they are concerned about:
JavaScript
JavaScript is a type of programming language that runs on all websites. It allows people to do complicated things like scroll, see videos, and checkboxes. While it is fantastic for usability, it can also leave you vulnerable to attacks. JavaScript can be used to gain access to the user’s computer and thus execute many commands that it should not be able to do.
Man in the Middle
Once the user is connected with your website, they might be thinking that they have a direct connection with your server. In reality, a hacker could be pretending to be your site and being the ‘man in the middle.’ The only way to prevent this is with better HTTPS security instead of HTTP security to ensure a secure handshake.
Network Jacking
Within your office, you might be sending information back and forth on the network. In theory, only the people with access should be able to see it. Network sniffers exist that jack into your connection, meaning your network servers should only talk to dedicated connections that the HTML and PHP specify.
Social Engineering
A web designer’s worst nightmare is actually social engineering. They can include great security measures, but still, if one person gives the hacker access by being tricked by a scam, then it can bypass physical security measures.
When it comes to web security, there is no such thing as too much preparation. When you take time to understand the threats and prepare for them, you can outsmart the attackers. That way you don’t have personal, financial, or customer information stolen or used in the wrong way. If you’re nonetheless worried despite any measures you’ve taken, you should also consider cyber liability insurance for your business.
Use the insights above to make sure your design is in line with proper security in the modern sense.
