As an accommodation provider, you probably store and have access to a large amount of guest information. This includes names, addresses, credit card details and contact numbers.
Because of this data, you may be a tempting target for cyber fraudsters and criminals . These criminals will use a variety of means and methods to try to gain access to this valuable information. Malware is one of these methods.
What is Malware
Malware is an general term for malicious/dangerous software. This including viruses, worms, trojan horses, and spyware. Once on your computer, the malware s able to disrupt computer operations, gather sensitive info, or gain access to private computer systems.
Most commonly, malware used to gather information such as personal ID or details, bank or credit card numbers, and passwords.
Once a machine or user is successfully attacked with malware, they’re referred to as “infected.”
Malware: The main objectives
- Theft of sensitive data/information, such as financial details and sensitive corporate or personal info.
- Gaining remote control and use of a machine, computer or other devices
- To send spam from an infected machine to unsuspecting targets
- Accessing your local network (like a business network) from an infected user’s device.
How does Malware get onto your computer or device
- Phishing emails containing malicious links or attachments
- Application/sofware downloads from untrusted or unknown sources and websites.
- Malicious or hacked websites, such as those trying to impersonating NightsBridge or booking channel websites.
- Social engineering attempts to install remote access software, such as Anydesk, TeamViewer, or Screenconnect
- Malicious links or attachments shared via social media or instant messaging
- Unknown USB, flash, or external drives plugged into your device or network.
How to spot signs of Malware
- Your computer/device system slows down or there is an increase in CPU and memory usage
- Noticing suspicious file downloads or deletions
- Seeing unusual files or file extensions on your computer/device
- Browsers redirecting you to unknown or random websites
- Browser pop-ups and ads
- An unusual screensaver and/or system crashes
- Increased internet traffic from the infected computer/device - higher than usual data usage.
What to do if you suspect a Malware attack
- Run a full anti-malware scan using reputable antivirus software
- Remove suspicious file downloads or installed applications
- Clear all the files from the “Temp” directory
- Restore all installed browsers to their default setting.
- Clear the cookies and cache
- Reset all passwords, including your NightsBridge password and any other stored passwords
How to protect your business from Malware
Protect your business and the personal information you store by taking these steps
Protect your passwords
- Use unique, long passwords for your accounts and use two-factor authentication to further protect these passwords.
- Stay in control of which mobile numbers can receive OTP codes.
- Consider using a password manager, which generates and stores your passwords in a location you can control.
Use an up-to-date antivirus software
- Install an antivirus program and keep it up to date.
- Use it to scan anything you download before you open it.
- Antivirus software also allows you to scan your entire computer for malware.
Keep your device up to date with security patches and updates
- Regular updates of all software on your desktop, laptop, and mobile devices can prevent security issues.
- Software updates typically come with security updates that can identify software weaknesses fraudsters use to gain access to computers.
Restrict who has account access
- Ensure only the relevant people have the relevant access to systems and accounts.
Only download or install apps from trusted sources
- Only download or install apps from official app stores.
- Do not downloading apps or other software that haven’t been updated for a long time, or that were downloaded by a very low number of users.
- Regularly uninstall apps and software from your computer and other devices that you haven't used for a long time.
Control removable media
- Control how removable media, such as USB drives and external hard drives, are used by your devices.
- Be sure to scan the data on USB, external drives and memory cards when you connect them to your computers.
Turn on your firewall
- Firewalls protect against cyber attackers by shielding your computer or network from malicious or unnecessary network traffic.
- Firewalls can also prevent malicious software from accessing a computer or network via the internet.
- Most operating systems include a firewall. You might just need to turn it on.
Practice cybersecurity awareness
- Stay vigilant about online security threats.
- Don’t open anything that looks suspicious
- Don't download anything from websites you can’t verify as trustworthy.
- Treat non-public info with respect. Make sure it isn’t available or shared with unauthorized people.
- Schedule regular cyber security trainings for employees on key threats, online safety, phishing, social engineering, and online fraud.