Today, we’re going to look at a very easy method that businesses and organizations can use to lessen the amount of risk of a cyber attack or a virus “infection.” You may be thinking, “What is it?” Well, one area that is commonly overlooked is ‘default credentials’ for new devices.

Default credentials are the administrative logins and passwords that come from the manufacturer when you first get a device. Each and every device in your organization should not be using the default credentials. By changing these up, you will be significantly lowering the risk of your business/organization from being hacked. Commonly used default credentials are “admin” for the login and password. Or, “admin” for the login and “password” for the password. These are not secure credentials.

Sometimes botnets target devices that are using the “default credentials,” causing a major network outage, or even worse, a virus infection across your network. While this sounds dangerous, you might wonder, “What is a botnet?” A botnet is a collection of hacked devices that are all linked together to attack a computer, website, or network, ultimately resulting in harm to many organizations. Botnets are able to knock whole websites, networks, and full computer systems. In order to prevent this from happening to your organization, make it a habit to change all default credentials on all devices. DO NOT leave them default.

Any device that is sitting on the network, especially with default credentials is a prime target for cyber breaches and attacks.

Phones, computers, and other devices are things that can give hackers a foothold into your entire system allowing them to leverage and make more progress with hacking your organization.

In short, don’t keep the manufacturer’s credentials for continued access. Take a few minutes to change them. You won’t regret it. 

When you change your router, printer, or any device to use secure credentials, you are lessening the risk that an outside attack or breach will occur to your organization. 

So no matter how big or small your organization is, we’re here to help you become successful by protecting your company from a breach of security or hack. 

To learn more about RISK and how you can protect your organization, check out our previous post: Should I Make Everyone an Administrator