How To Know If Your Network Has Been Hacked

Network hacking is a serious threat that can cause significant financial losses, reputational damage, and regulatory fines for a business. Hackers can gain unauthorised access to a network and steal, alter, or destroy data. This article provides key information on recognising signs of a network breach — such as unusual network traffic, unexpected reboots, slow system performance, unauthorised account activity, and altered files — and what actions to take if your network has been hacked.

Understanding The Basics Of Network Hacking

Network hacking is the unauthorised access or breach of a computer network to steal, alter, or destroy data. It can be carried out by an insider with authorised access or by an external malicious party using advanced tools. Network hacking can take numerous forms and have varying consequences.

• Passive attacks – Gaining unauthorised access to information without making direct changes to the network. Examples include eavesdropping and traffic analysis.

• Active attacks – Direct manipulation or damage to the network or data. Examples include virus and worm attacks, denial of service (DoS) attacks, or man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks.

Network hacking can be disastrous for a business, ranging from minor disruptions to significant financial losses, regulatory fines, and reputational damage. In extreme cases, network hacking could even threaten a company’s survival.

1.Unusual Network Traffic

One way to detect network intrusion is to look for abnormal traffic patterns. Typically, network traffic follows a predictable and consistent pattern aligned with regular operations such as data transfers, email communications, and web browsing activities.

When a network is compromised, it often deviates from the usual patterns. Unusual activity may include:

• Sudden increases in data usage
• More connections to foreign IP addresses
• Surge in activity outside regular office hours
• Repeated failed login attempts

Anomalies in traffic could indicate a hacker extracting data, controlling systems, or using the network for a larger cyber attack. It’s crucial to monitor your network traffic. Swift detection and response can minimise potential damage and ensure that your business continues to run smoothly.

2. Unexpected System Reboots

Every computer system requires an occasional reboot, often as part of a system update or routine maintenance. However, if your network is rebooting unexpectedly and without reason, this could be a signal it has been compromised.

Unexpected reboots can be a tool for hackers to:

• Install harmful software
• Gain control of a network
• Disrupt security software
• Erase tracks of unauthorised access
• Disrupt critical infrastructure

If systems are rebooting at odd hours or more frequently than usual, it’s advisable to investigate the cause. Conduct a thorough system review and consider seeking professional assistance.

3. Slow Internet and System Performance

A sign of a compromised network is a noticeable decline in internet speed and system performance. While this may appear to be a minor glitch, it could result from a network hack. Hackers often use malware — such as viruses and ransomware — that can overload a network with traffic and consume system resources, making it vulnerable to infiltration.

To prevent this, users can install reliable antivirus software, keep their systems updated, avoid suspicious emails or links, and regularly back up their data.

4. Disabled or Modified Security Solutions

Security solutions, such as firewalls, antivirus software, and intrusion detection, are designed to protect your network by neutralising threats before they can cause damage. A glaring sign of a compromised network is the sudden disablement or modification of security.

Signs of tampering could include

• Unexplained deactivation of your antivirus software
• Unauthorised changes to firewall settings
• A sudden failure of your intrusion detection system to detect threats
• Automatic updates have stopped working
• Unexpected pop-ups or ads

It is essential to regularly monitor the status and functionality of your security solutions to spot any unusual activity. Timely identification and response could mean the difference between a minor security incident and a catastrophic data breach.

5. Unauthorised Account Activity

Unauthorised account activity is one of the most obvious signs you’ve been hacked. This typically involves unusual or unexplainable actions conducted from business accounts that neither you nor your team have initiated.

Unauthorised activity might include:

• Multiple failed login attempts
• Abnormal activity during non-business hours
• Password changes
• Abnormal transactions
• Unfamiliar emails sent from your account
• Unusual login locations or IP addresses

Cybercriminals exploit business accounts not only to carry out fraudulent transactions but also as a means to gain deeper access to a network. They could even use these accounts to launch attacks on your clients.

Regularly monitor and verify all actions taken from your business accounts and educate staff on the importance of safe online practices. Implementing multi-factor authentication and regularly updating security software can also significantly reduce the risk of cyber attacks.

6. Unusual Pop-Ups, Unwanted Ads, and Redirects

The sudden prevalence of unusual pop-ups, unwanted ads, or redirects while browsing online is one of the most visible signs of a potential network breach. Not only are they irritating, but they often indicate the presence of adware, a form of malware specifically designed to generate revenue for cyber criminals through forced advertising.

Adware can enter your network via email attachments, websites, or bundled with other software. Once inside, it can disrupt operations, slow down systems, compromise data security and potentially open a gateway for more malicious software.

Adware often masquerades as genuine software and can be challenging to identify. Regular system scans using reliable anti-malware software can help identify and remove threats.

7. New Software or Programs Installed Without Consent

New or unexpected software installed without your consent is an alarming sign of a network breach. Hackers can leverage rogue software to gain access to your system, manipulate data or seize control of your network.

Rogue software often masquerades as legitimate applications while performing malicious activities in the background. Some common examples include:

• Unauthorised antivirus programs
• System utilities
• Fake security tools or system optimisers
• Browser extensions with malicious intentions:
• Seemingly harmless games

Unauthorised software can lead to data breaches, system crashes or further infiltration by other malicious software. To prevent unauthorised installations, businesses should establish stringent software management policies. This includes restricting software installation privileges to trusted administrators and encouraging employees to avoid downloading applications from unverified sources.

8. Missing or Altered Files

Network hacking can have a devastating impact on your business’s files and data. If you notice that important documents or data are inexplicably missing or have been changed without your knowledge, it’s an indicator that your network could have been hacked.

Regular audits of your data can help you quickly identify any irregularities or changes that weren’t authorised or expected. Additionally, having an up-to-date backup of all your important data can save your business from significant loss. Backup plans also enable you to restore your system to its pre-attack state, minimising the impact of the hack.

9. Unusual Outbound Emails or Messages

Hackers often use a technique called “spamming” or “spoofing”, where they send out emails or messages from your accounts to your contacts. These messages typically contain malicious links or attachments that, when clicked, can lead to further network breaches.

To secure your email and messaging systems, ensure you have strong, unique passwords and two-factor authentication where possible. Regularly updating and patching your systems can also help to seal any security gaps that hackers might exploit.

10. Unknown Devices Connected to Your Network

It can be tricky to spot, but having unknown devices connected to your network can be a sign of a harmful network intrusion. Cybercriminals can use devices to hack your system, steal sensitive data, disrupt your operations, or even launch attacks on other businesses.

A sudden increase in the number of devices or the presence of devices with unfamiliar names or addresses could be a sign you’ve been hacked.

To help secure your network:

• Use network monitoring tools to gain visibility to connected devices
• Implement strong network access controls
• Maintain up-to-date firewall settings
• Enforce strict password policies
• Use advanced security solutions such as intrusion detection systems.

What To Do If Your Network Has Been Hacked

If you suspect that your network has been hacked, these are some of the key steps you need to take:

• Revoke access from any unauthorised users by changing all passwords and authentication methods.

• Isolate affected systems from the rest of your network to prevent the spread of malware or further unauthorised access.

• Identify and remove any malware or rogue software installed on your network.

• Conduct a thorough investigation to understand how the breach occurred to identify vulnerabilities in your network.

• Take steps to strengthen your security.

• Notify all relevant parties about the breach, including employees, customers, and regulatory bodies, if applicable.

Engaging a managed security service provider like “IT For Business” can help you navigate this process and ensure your network is fully secured.

Key Takeaways

• Network hacking poses a significant threat to businesses, potentially leading to massive financial losses, reputational damage, and regulatory fines.

• Businesses should implement security measures to prevent attacks, such as monitoring network traffic, using antivirus software, and educating staff on safe online practices.

• If a breach occurs, take swift action to isolate affected systems, remove malware, and strengthen security. Engaging a managed security service provider can help ensure network security.

Protect your network today with IT For Business. Our expert Managed Security Services ensure your business remains safe and secure. Contact us now for a consultation. Don’t wait until it’s too late to secure your network.