Top Cybersecurity Concerns for Defense Contractors and How to Defend Against Them

Cybersecurity training and implementation of cybersecurity solutions are an absolute must to protect DoD contractors. It’s a situation that can be avoided.

Male It Technician At Computer In Office Working On Cybersecurity Solutions For Company

DoD contractors are prime targets for cyberattacks. Cybercriminals are constantly looking for new ways to gain access to sensitive information, exploit vulnerabilities, and disrupt services. If they get their hands on this data they can receive significant financial gains among other golden nuggets.

That’s why cybersecurity is a must for every contractor in the industry. So what cybersecurity concerns do DoD contractors face? Here are some of the top cybersecurity concerns that DoD contractors need to be aware of:

1. Phishing and Social Engineering

Cybercriminals often disguise themselves as someone else or send malicious emails to gain access to sensitive information. Phishing is one of the most common cybersecurity threats that DoD contractors need to be aware of and protect against. With 323,972 victims and continuing to rise by at least 30% annually.

Because this tactic is activated by a simple click of a button, education, and training can go a long way in helping to identify malicious emails sent from imposters.

2. Malware and Ransomware

Malicious software like ransomware is where businesses have their hands tied. Because this ill-natured tactic can be used to encrypt files and demand a ransom for their release, around 32% of victims ended up paying the ransom. However, there’s more at risk because not all people recover all of their compromised data.

That 32% who paid the ransom only received 65% of their data back. Cybersecurity training and implementation of cybersecurity solutions are an absolute must to protect DoD contractors. It’s a lose-lose situation that can be avoided by:

  • Providing education and training on cybersecurity best practices
  • Implementing proactive cybersecurity solutions like endpoint and network security, email protection, web filtering, etc.

3. Data Loss and Theft

Ever heard of identity theft? It’s not a joke—especially for DoD contractors. Unauthorized access to confidential data means that hackers can steal data like the following:

  • Information about projects, products, services, and other confidential data
  • Customer information such as phone numbers and emails
  • Credit card information and customer payment details
  • Social security numbers

To prevent data theft, DoD contractors must implement cybersecurity solutions that can detect unauthorized access right away. Security tools such as cybersecurity scans, software authentication, and strong passwords can help to protect against data loss and theft.

4. Insider Threats

Insider threats pose a major cybersecurity risk for DoD contractors, as malicious insiders can use their knowledge of the system to gain unauthorized access and steal confidential information.

While it may seem impossible to protect yourself against an undercover cybercriminal, there are steps that DoD contractors can take to reduce their cybersecurity risk. Cybersecurity solutions like threat intelligence, data loss prevention, and limiting access to secure systems, can all help to minimize insider threats so your business comes out on top.

Your Greatest Defense Against Cybersecurity Concerns: HRCT

Fortunately, there are cybersecurity solutions available to help protect against cyber threats. Between cybersecurity auditing, cybersecurity training, and cybersecurity assessments, DoD contractors can become aware of the gaps in their cybersecurity defenses.

While protecting yourself against cybercriminals may feel overwhelming, we’re here to take the load off.

Plus, our team of cybersecurity experts helps DoD contractors understand the risks associated with cyber threats so they can take proactive steps to protect themselves. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact us today and get ahead of cybersecurity threats with cybersecurity solutions from HRCT.