by: Jacob Peklo
AUGUSTA (WFXG)–You might remember the SolarWinds Data breach that impacted hundreds of American businesses last year. It was just the latest hack, which national security experts say came from Russia.
That’s why the US is putting major sanctions on Russia for interference with several American projects, including SolarWinds, and in the 2016 and 2020 elections.
“But the biggest part that’s going to affect Russia and their economy is that the US is no longer allowing those debt relationships,” said Zach Hodges, the vice president and COO of Cyber Security Solutions in Augusta. “So, no more lending that debt to the Russian side.”
Hodges’ insight comes from his work with small businesses to ensure these kinds of attacks are limited.
“It’s always more cost-effective and efficient for an organization, saves them a lot of time, money and embarrassment, if they do the monitoring beforehand,” explained Hodges.
The damage was felt in a big way in the Solar Winds cyber hack, where the FBI and other national investigators determined Russians hacked into computers through back door openings in small businesses, with the goal of eventually stealing US Defense secrets.
Even with sanctions in place, the damage may not be done.
“There may be people who want to go out and do further damage in terms of the events that have taken place and the sanctions,” said Hodges.
While all may seem quiet now, the real risk, Hodges says, could come later on.
“They’re not necessarily going to raise their hand now, and show smoke, so we know there’s a fire, but there may be actions a year from now, or two years from now,” he said. “A lot of breaching comes with patience and waiting for the right moment to strike.”
Hodges also recommends to check your system’s security. Make sure to run a multi-factor and vulnerability scan of your network, and ensure you have a fire wall and strong passwords.
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