Priya PatelTLDR:
- Cyberattacks are on the rise and becoming more expensive, with Florida being no exception.
- Experts stress the importance of proactive measures such as strong passwords and monitoring for any suspicious activity.
Cybersecurity experts in Florida are highlighting the increasing frequency and cost of cyberattacks, emphasizing the importance of being proactive in protecting personal and business information. In 2023, 343 million people fell victim to cyberattacks, showcasing the widespread nature of this issue. The Florida Department of Health was recently targeted in a data hack, underlining the vulnerability of organizations to cyber crimes. Erich Kron from KnowBe4 points out that cyberattacks are not a new phenomenon but are occurring with greater frequency. The global average cost of a data breach in 2024 is nearly $5 million, marking a significant financial burden for affected entities.
Common forms of cyberattacks include phishing, personal data breaches, and malware. Organizations like the City of Pensacola and the Florida Department of Health have experienced breaches, prompting them to offer monitoring services to affected individuals. Connar McCasland from the UWF Center for Cybersecurity advises individuals to take these offers seriously and consider credit monitoring or freezing their credit to prevent any adverse effects of a cyberattack on their finances. McCasland also stresses the importance of having strong and diverse passwords, as well as regularly checking emails for any suspicious activity.
To simplify password management, McCasland recommends using a password manager, which can generate and store secure passwords. By staying vigilant and proactive in implementing cybersecurity measures, individuals and organizations can better protect themselves against the growing threat of cyberattacks.
