There is certainly no shortage of cybersecurity studies popping up right now, and it can be difficult to assess from their short synopses which ones will bring you the most insight. So, here is some guidance: Be sure to check out the Verizon 2016 Data Breach Investigations Report.

This report confirms what we all fear, but don’t want to admit: International cyberespionage groups are winning in the battle for digital information. They’re using tried-and-true social engineering tactics to worm their way into corporate networks, and they’re relying on highly effective strategies like ransomware to force victims into making payments.

With this in mind, organizations need to do a much better job of increasing their cybersecurity education efforts. Employees need to realize that cyberthieves are looking to exploit human nature, and will go to great lengths to trick victims into surrendering private account details.

Here are some key findings from the report:

Patterns are emerging: As much as 95 percent of all breaches and 86 percent of security incidents can be broken down and classified into nine different patterns.

Ransomware is on the rise: Ransomware attacks have increased dramatically. They grew 15 percent year over year from 2015.

Organizations lack essential defenses: Companies are in dire need of advanced protective measures to safeguard against targeted attacks. Most companies lack the tools they need to stay safe online.

So, check out the report, and see the truth for yourself, which is that now, more than ever, companies need to be vigilant about threats that are lurking on the Web.

Then, contact Apex Technology Services, New York City’s and Fairfield County’s premier computer consultants that can help provide the critical security services you need to help mitigate an attack.