The telecommunications industry plays a crucial role in society. We rely on telecommunication companies to protect our personal data and other sensitive information. Did you know that telecommunications companies are prone to specific cybersecurity vulnerabilities because of their peculiarity? Keep reading this post to discover what you need to know about cybersecurity threats to telecommunications companies.
The telecommunications industry recorded a 177% increase in ransomware attacks in the first half of 2024. Telecommunications cybersecurity is critical to data protection for mobile devices, telecommunications networks, and other infrastructures. The landscape of telecommunications cybersecurity has become complex with technologies like 5G and the Internet of Things (IoT). Thus, telecommunication companies now deal with emerging cyber threats and require robust cybersecurity measures to mitigate these threats.
5 Top Cybersecurity Threats To Telecommunication Companies
The telecommunications industry is the backbone for other sectors like finance, healthcare, and transportation. Cyber attacks on the telecommunications industry could lead to a widespread disruption in society. With an increasingly complex and evolving landscape, the telecommunications industry is vulnerable to a wide range of cyber threats.
Here are five top cybersecurity threats to telecommunication companies:
Ransomware
Ransomware is malicious software that blocks victims from accessing their accounts, systems, or personal files. The hacker then demands a ransom from the victim to regain access. Telecommunication networks are vulnerable to ransomware attacks because of their widespread connection and critical societal role.
Distributed Denial Of Service (DDoS) Attacks
Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks are common in telecommunication companies. These attacks aim to overwhelm a network with internet traffic, rendering it ineffective and preventing legitimate users from accessing the service. 5G networks make the impact of DDoS more severe because of increased reliance on connectivity and network availability.
Data Breaches
Telecommunications companies are vulnerable to data breaches because they store large amounts of sensitive data. When telecommunications companies do not address cybersecurity vulnerabilities, cybercriminals can exploit them to access sensitive information, whether personal or corporate data. Data breaches can lead to substantial financial losses and reputation damage for affected organisations.
Man-in-the-Middle Attacks (MitM)
Man-in-the-middle attacks happen when cyber attackers intercept and alter communication between two parties without their knowledge. This is significant in the telecommunications industry because it can compromise the integrity of data transmitted across networks. Man-in-middle attacks include voice communications and data transfers.
5G Exploits
5G networks accompany unique cybersecurity vulnerabilities that telecommunications companies must deal with. These vulnerabilities may potentially lead to cyber-attacks. The cyber risks to telecommunications companies due to 5G networks include stemming from increased software use and integration of the Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
How Telecommunication Companies Can Mitigate Cybersecurity Threats
Despite these emerging threats to telecommunications companies, there are effective strategies to mitigate cyber-attacks. These strategies include:
- Multi-factor Authentication, such as two-factor authentication.
- Data Encryption.
- Use of firewalls.
- Engage regulatory compliance measures.
- Routine cybersecurity training and awareness. Training services tailored to your organization’s needs can be provided by Support Link Technologies.
How Support Link Technologies’ Can Help Your Telecommunications Company Prevent Cyber Attacks
Support Link Technologies provides BeyondTrust’s Secure Remote Access that enables your telecommunications company to apply the least privilege and audit controls to all remote access from employees, vendors, and service desks.
Through Secure Remote Access, your IT team can share remote access with employees and third-party vendors. This solution ensures that the user has the fewest privileges while accessing the network remotely, reducing the entry points for cyber attacks.
At Support Link Technologies, we work with telecommunications companies to provide cybersecurity services and solutions. We offer training services to telecommunications industry leaders and company staff. These training services will keep you abreast of recent cyber threats and provide practical knowledge and tools to help mitigate these threats.
Conclusion
The telecommunications industry plays a critical role across several sectors of society. With evolving technologies, telecommunications companies must uphold strict cybersecurity measures to prevent cyber attacks. This post has described what telecommunications companies need to know about cybersecurity threats and how Support Link Technologies can help telecommunications companies mitigate cyber risks.
Do not wait to suffer revenue loss or damage to organisational reputation due to cyber attacks. Invest in cybersecurity and training services with Support Link Technologies to protect your telecommunications company from cyber attacks. Contact us today to learn more about our services and customised training programs.