FirstWave sees massive 76% increase in virus-infected email attacks, placing small businesses at risk

Malware attacks, such as the ‘WannaCry’ ransomware launched on the 12^th of May and the ‘Adylkuzz’ attack uncovered by security researchers yesterday, are capable of inflicting devastating losses on Australian small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) by destroying vital business information and IT systems.

So far this year, FirstWave’s cloud-based email security system has blocked more than 247,000 pieces of email malware from reaching customers, which is up 76% over the same point in 2016.

These advanced persistent threats (APTs) continue to expand in sophistication, frequency and impact mainly through attack vectors such as email (phishing), the web (‘drive-by’ downloads) and software-as-a-service (malware) applications.

The result is that SMBs face a growing business risk from malicious stealthy malware penetrating traditional or existing security defences and compromising their customers, systems or data. 

FirstWave offers a comprehensive, integrated enterprise-grade cloud-based solution for any SMB customer using any or all of FirstWave’s core cloud gateway-based security services – email, web or NGFW, all incorporating world-leading security technology.

FirstWave’s industry leading cloud security technology also secures a number of Australia’s largest financial institutions, along with government departments and agencies at federal and state level, leading ASX-listed companies and major private businesses. The company’s customers include three of the big-four banks, leading FMCG companies and major national retail chains.

Speaking from Bangkok, where he is presenting at the Fortinet Fast And Secure Conference 2017, FirstWave chief technology officer Simon Ryan commented on this alarming trend.

“Our email analysis is a wakeup call to businesses in Australia. This is just another example of the huge increase in cyber risk. Email is only one security vector, so SMBs need to ensure they have enterprise-grade quality cloud security across all threat vectors including email, web and firewall solutions.”

“Australian SMBs are not invisible or immune to security concerns originating overseas. When it comes to safeguarding your business, you must have the latest advanced threat protection as attacks are becoming more sophisticated and prevalent in Australia.”