Why Your Company Needs to Use White Hat Hackers to Deter Cyber Criminals

It’s really scary to think, but right now, cybercrime is booming! Well, it’s technically been around since the 1980s with The Brain-computer virus, but even though it is something common, it doesn’t mean it can’t grow, right? Basically, every other day, you’re finding that major companies are dealing with data breaches. So this alone has caused businesses to ask themselves a pretty important question: what exactly can you do to secure your digital fortress? It sounds weird, right?

Well, criminals are not caring as much about breaking into your business (granted they will still do it), what matters most to them is that data. Sure, it’s easy to assume that hackers only target big corporations, but the reality is quite the opposite. Small and medium-sized businesses are increasingly on the radar of cybercriminals. 

Why? Because they often lack robust security measures, making them low-hanging fruit for a data breach or ransomware attack. Even if you have careful employees or careless employees, no matter how strict your protocol is, hackers are getting smarter.

So, what’s the solution? Well, one solution (that should probably be combined with multiple would be white hat hackers. While the name itself sounds pretty silly, like it’s something from a comic, this is a real thing, and it is a real service that most  IT support companies tend to offer (with their other cyber security methods for businesses). So, let’s go ahead and take a look at why you should consider this option when you’re trying to firm up your cyber security within your business.

What is White Hat Hacking?

White hat hacking is the practice of ethical hacking, where security experts, also known as white hat hackers, are authorised to test and improve the security of your systems. These professionals use their hacking skills for good—identifying vulnerabilities in your IT infrastructure and helping you fix them before cybercriminals can exploit them.

Basically, they’re not like the people you see in stock image of black hoods and fingerless gloves who are sitting in a dark room with computers everywhere (that might not be too accurate for a cyber criminal but who knows?). 

They’re Like a Locksmith

So, the best way to describe white hat hackers (who usually work for IT companies) would be something like a digital locksmith. Just as a locksmith would help secure your physical doors and windows, a white hat hacker ensures that your digital doors and windows are locked tight. They look for weak points in your systems, such as unpatched software, weak passwords, or exposed data, and work with your IT team to bolster your defences. 

Again, it’s usually IT companies and cyber security oriented companies, so there’s usually specific services that offer this or if you’re under a contract with companies like this then there’s a high chance that you’re already getting a service like this.

But What’s Included?

Again, you’ll usually find that IT oriented companies (as a lot of small businesses outsourve to them) offer white hat hacking services as part of their cybersecurity solutions. These services often include penetration testing (where the hacker attempts to break into your system as a cybercriminal would) and vulnerability assessments to identify potential security risks. 

So, if you’re on the fence of whether you should outsource your IT or even outsource your cyber security, then this should give you a good reason to try. Your Norton virus scanner isn’t really doing anything to help you. So, just by partnering with a company that provides these services, you’re not only enhancing your security but also gaining peace of mind, knowing that your business is better protected.

Why White Hat Hacking is Beneficial for Your Company

There were already some benefits mentioned just right above, essentially, if you’re already outsourcing IT or even cyber security solutions (which again most IT companies already provide) then you can just reach out to the company and ask them if they’re already doing this or if they plan to. But of course if you have everything in-house than that does mean either outsourcing or hiring someone (or maybe even a team) that can do this for you.

Proactively Identifies Vulnerabilities

One of the biggest benefits of white hat hacking is the proactive identification of vulnerabilities. Instead of waiting for a cybercriminal to find a weak spot in your system, a white hat hacker does it for you—safely. 

So, just by simulating attacks, they can identify weaknesses in your network, applications, and devices. This proactive approach means that you can fix vulnerabilities before they are exploited, significantly reducing the risk of a breach.

So, you’re going to want to go ahead and consider this: if your system has a flaw, it’s only a matter of time before someone with malicious intent finds it. So, pretty much, white hat hackers help you stay one step ahead of the bad guys by continuously testing and updating your defences. It’s like having a security guard who knows every potential weak spot in your building and ensures they’re all fortified.

Protects Your Company’s Reputation

Even if this doesn’t seem like your fault, it is. Sure, it’s getting a little too common nowadays, but that’s still not a good excuse. So, a data breach can do more than just damage your finances—it can also severely harm your reputation. 

So, you really need to keep in mind that customers trust you with their personal and financial information, and a breach can shatter that trust in an instant. The fallout from a breach can be devastating, with customers taking their business elsewhere and potential clients being scared off by the bad press. You absolutely need to prevent these breaches; it’s 100% a definite must! So, reputation is absolutely everything, and you need to think about that.

Saves Money in the Long Run

Investing in white hat hacking services might seem like an added expense- but technically, yes, it is one. But it’s an investment that can save your company money in the long run. Now, that’s the most important part of all of this! The cost of a data breach can be astronomical—yes, you read that right! So, just go ahead and think about legal fees, regulatory fines, lost revenue, and the expense of repairing the damage. Yes, again, it’s all of these!

Plus, there are the long-term costs of lost customers and a tarnished brand. A small business can afford that. Again, even if you thought you did everything right, it still doesn’t give you a pass. Yes, it’s a shame, but it’s true. 

But with that all said, the expense of hiring an ethical hacker is a small price to pay compared to the potential financial fallout of a cyberattack. It’s a bit like paying for home insurance—sure, it’s an added cost, but you’ll be glad you have it if the worst happens.

Compliance with Industry Standards

You may already know this, but it’s best to dive in a bit more. So, in many industries, companies are required to comply with specific security standards and regulations, such as GDPR in the UK or HIPAA in the healthcare industry. So, what happens if there’s non-compliance? Well, this can result in hefty fines and legal trouble. Basically, what was mentioned right above?

Small Businesses are Big Targets

It’s a common misconception that cyber criminals only go after big companies. It was mentioned earlier, but all sizes are targeted. Actually, individuals in any tax bracket are targeted just every day. Everyone, probably even children’s devices, is targeted. There’s no reason that you will be targetted. So, you’re a target, and your business is also a pretty big target too. 

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