7 Network Security Risks Every Business in Abu Dhabi Should Assess

Business networks allow employees to perform day-to-day tasks and to communicate via various applications. Data is stored and made available via networks. As businesses in Abu Dhabi increasingly utilize connected devices, cloud and servers, safeguarding these networks is becoming critical. Weaknesses in these networks can lead to confidential information being exposed, negatively impacting business operations and allowing attack surfaces for cyber threats.

Network security is the safeguarding of network infrastructure, devices and data from unauthorized access and threats. The following are some risks, and ways of managing them, that businesses in Abu Dhabi should evaluate.

1. Out-of-Date or Old Network Infrastructure

The components of a network (i.e. switches, routers, firewalls, wireless access points, etc.) can become out-of-date. Older devices may contain hardware and firmware vulnerabilities that can be exploited by hackers.

What to assess:

• Whether devices run supported firmware versions.
• Whether security patches are installed.
• Whether any device has reached the end of life.

How to reduce the risk:

Maintain an up-to-date inventory of all devices. Monitor security updates and replace outdated devices. Regular preventive maintenance can help determine when systems become outdated.

2. Misconfigured Firewalls and Routers

Firewalls can leave otherwise secured systems exposed to threats. Default and open ports can enable remote administration of a system.

What to assess:

• If rule sets of firewalls allow only required traffic.
• If unneeded services are disabled.
• If administration access is limited.

How to reduce risk:

• Establish best practices to secure network devices.
• Implement controls to secure remote administration.
• Whether remote connections utilize appropriate authentication and encryption.

3. Weak Passwords and Missing Multi-Factor Authentication

Weak passwords lead to the compromise of user accounts which give attackers access to business systems. Password reuse and shared credentials among employees increase the threat posed to business systems. Accounts with administrative privileges are more valuable to an attacker.

MFA provides an additional layer of protection and should be used with administrator and business email accounts and for remote access.

What to assess:

• Are employees using strong and unique passwords?
• Are business systems protected with MFA?
• Are accounts with administrative privileges limited?
• Have employee accounts with administrative privileges been disabled?

How to reduce risk:

Enforcing the use of MFA and strong passwords can significantly reduce the threat posed to business systems. User accounts with secure credentials and adjusted permissions can minimize the threat of unauthorized access.

4. Unsecured Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi gives employees and guests the ability to quickly access the business network. Weak security on Wi-Fi networks allows unauthorized access to business systems.

Configuring access points correctly and changing default access point credentials also help improve security. Placing guest networks behind the business Wi-Fi also increases security.

What to assess:

• Are business Wi-Fi networks protected using the most current security protocols?
• Are guest networks isolated from business networks?
• Are wireless devices protected with the most recent security updates?
• Are default security configurations removed from wireless access points?

How to reduce risk:

Implement multi-factor authentication, end-to-end encryption, and keep guest and corporate networks separate. Businesses with multiple departments and locations should also review access permissions and configurations of wireless networks regularly.

5. Unpatched Software and Network Vulnerabilities

Various devices and equipment used in the operation of a business may contain software or firmware with vulnerabilities. Failure to apply available updates may lead to compromise of the devices by malware, or by unauthorized access and/or denial of access to services.

Internet-facing applications, servers and other devices may be targets of attacks by unauthorized persons.

What to assess:

• Whether the operating systems and applications receive security updates.
• Whether the servers and connected devices remain supported.
• Whether scans for weaknesses and vulnerabilities are conducted.
• Whether known weaknesses and vulnerabilities are eliminated.

How to reduce risk:

Identify and remediate vulnerabilities as part of an ongoing process, prioritizing the most critical. Regular maintenance of servers helps businesses keep their IT infrastructure secure and operational.

6. Phishing and Unauthorized Access to the Network

Phishing is a social engineering technique to acquire user IDs, passwords, and/or other sensitive information. Attackers use compromised user IDs, passwords, etc. to access business email and files as well as business applications.

What to assess:

• Whether employees receive cybersecurity awareness training.
• Whether email security filters capture and/or stop the delivery of suspicious messages.
• Whether multi-factor authentication is used for email and remote access.
• Whether user permissions control access to sensitive information.

How to reduce risk:

Employee training combined with a Spam filter, Endpoint Protection, and MFA decreases risk of phishing. Create a defined process for reporting phishing attempts and for handling compromised accounts. Consistent security reviews can assist in identifying blind spots within a company’s controls.

7. Inadequate Network Monitoring and Intrusion Detection

Preventative security controls can’t eliminate all risks. The lack of proper monitoring can lead to not noticing abnormal network traffic or repeated failed login attempts.

Not monitoring networks can allow an attacker to remain undetected, increasing the impact of an attack.

What to assess:

• If critical network devices create security logs.
• If traffic and login attempts are monitored.
• If security alerts are promptly investigated.
• If there are documented procedures for incident response.

How to reduce risk:

Implement proper network monitoring and logging. Depending on business needs, consider IDS/IPS or SIEM.

Businesses should also pinpoint relevant UAE cybersecurity and data protection legal requirements pertaining to their business activity and industry.

Network Security Solutions for Business in Abu Dhabi

At Online IT Solutions, we understand the important role that a secure network plays in your business. We also understand the investments required to maintain an effective and secure network. Online IT Solutions takes a proactive approach to network security by constantly monitoring your business network and taking the proper measures to secure it.

Businesses can ascertain their requirements for network solutions, server solutions and IT support and maintenance.

Contact Online IT Solutions for more information on how to secure your IT infrastructure in Abu Dhabi.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the most prevalent network security risks?

Old or outdated devices, misconfigured firewalls, poor passwords, public Wi-Fi, unpatched software, phishing, and lack of oversight are all prevalent risks.

2. How often should a business perform a network security assessment?

It's a good idea to perform network security assessments based on the requirements applicable to your business, and following a material change to your IT infrastructure.

3. Why is firewall configuration important?

Firewalls, when configured correctly, can restrict unwanted and unnecessary incoming and outgoing traffic, and provide protection against unauthorized access.

4. Can professional network security services benefit small businesses?

Absolutely, professional services can help small businesses identify potential weaknesses in their network, and security controls and improve oversight.