Linux is widely known as a secure operating system for businesses and personal use. However, some real worries have started to surface with the rise of cyber threats in the past years.
One example is the recent rise in the popularity of Linux and the corresponding rise in attention from cybercriminals. Linux is attackable despite having a secure design. Linux users must be attentive to the risks and consider security despite the fact that Linux OS appears to be a secure system. In this article, let’s explore some ways to protect your Linux systems from cyber threats.
Secure SSH
As many Linux administrators choose to use the default SSH settings because they’re quicker to set up, SSH is frequently a severe weak point on many Linux servers. Small efforts taken to safeguard the SSH server on your Linux system can significantly reduce the risk of malicious software assaults, unauthorized users, data theft, and other issues.
Install Antivirus Software
Since Linux isn’t a popular target for hackers, many users don’t believe the OS needs antivirus software, but this is not the case. Even if Linux is less common and safer by default than other OS systems, anti-virus software can still provide further security.
Make sure to get anti-virus software that supports the appropriate distribution and Linux. If the firewall isn’t already on, turn it on now. To activate the firewall, launch the Terminal and type “sudo apt-get install gufw”. Next, switch on the firewall and type “gufw” into the console.
Training Your Employees
Two of the biggest hazards that enterprises must manage are phishing and ransomware. The entire business is at risk if employees receive harmful emails and are unable to realize that they are scams.
These difficulties, such as internal error, privilege abuse, and data loss, are frequently caused by staff members who disregard their security obligations. Organizations must help their IT division by routinely offering phishing awareness training to contain these problems.
Update All Software
Linux is updated often, especially with crucial security fixes, because it is open-source software. Regular updates for any further installed software are also recommended; some of these updates might include security patches. These updates must therefore be installed without delay. Numerous cyberattacks, such as the zero-day attack, rely on users and vendors delaying the resolution of recently revealed security flaws.
Disable Root
Numerous online bots are looking for and attempting to connect to Linux computers using SSH. In order to obtain the proper password and get root access, they typically employ a brute-force assault strategy.
As a result, the best strategy to prevent these attacks is to disable root login. To disable root login open the terminal and type “/etc/ssh/sshd_config”. Then, by typing the command “#PermitRootLogin no” into the console, open it in a text editor and delete the root login.
Use a VPN
All internet traffic to and from the PC can be encrypted by a VPN and rerouted through a secure server. That makes sure a third party cannot intercept the encrypted connection.
Having a VPN as an additional layer of protection is highly recommended for Linux systems. Many dangerous attacks that demand a network connection and trackable IP addresses are immediately stopped while using a VPN.
