by Jan Micahel Carpo, Correspondent
Kaspersky, a leader in cybersecurity, announced recently that it has intercepted over 61 million brute force attacks on enterprises in Southeast Asia, with more than five million of this number targeting businesses in the Philippines.
The company has urged businesses to enhance their digital defenses to avoid financial penalties and data breaches.
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A recent Kaspersky report revealed that in 2023, the company thwarted 61.37 million brute force attacks, 4.62 million of which originated from the Philippines.
Brute force attacks involve cybercriminals attempting to guess a computer’s password through repeated trials until they succeed. If successful, these attackers can gain access to the computer, compromising sensitive data and exposing the business to financial and reputational damage.
Preventing brute force attacks by fortifying digital defenses
Adrian Hia, managing director of Kaspersky for Asia Pacific, emphasized the need for businesses to fortify their digital defenses to prevent brute force attacks. He highlighted concerns such as the use of third-party services for data exchange and employees using home computers and potentially insecure WiFi networks.
Adrian Hia, managing director of Kaspersky for Asia Pacific
“Corporate infosec teams continue to face challenges with the use of third-party services for data exchange, employees using home computers, and the use of remote-access tools like remote desktop protocol,” Hia noted.
Hia also cautioned that cybercriminals might now be using artificial intelligence (AI) to breach digital platforms. Once a computer is compromised, attackers can demand anything from their victims, posing unlimited risks to a company’s finances and reputation.
To protect against AI-driven brute force attacks, Hia advised businesses to strengthen their endpoint and network security.
Kaspersky’s report showed that Vietnam experienced the highest number of brute force attacks in Southeast Asia with 25.98 million, followed by Indonesia with 11.7 million, and Thailand with 10.21 million.
Singapore and Malaysia recorded 6.06 million and 2.81 million, respectively.
To mitigate these threats, Hia recommended businesses in the region use two-factor authentication and create strong passwords. He also suggested leveraging software programs that offer comprehensive network administration and monitoring features.