From the series "Software, tools for the architect - trends 2025"
Today's architectural firms, although mainly focused on building and space design, are increasingly becoming targets of cyber attacks. Operating in the SME sector, design studios and independent specialists have valuable data in their resources, such as building plans, visualizations, cost estimates or personal data of their contractors. All this makes them a tasty morsel for cybercriminals. In this text, we'll take a look at the main cyber threats to which architecture firms are exposed, and ways to protect themselves that are worth implementing.
© Kaspersky
Why are architecture firms being targeted by cybercriminals?
It is estimated that over the past five years, more than 80% of Polish small businesses have fallen victim to a cyber attack, in some cases without being aware of it. Architects store a lot of sensitive data, and their projects can be of strategic importance to investors or even government institutions, making them attractive targets for attacks. In addition, it's not uncommon for small firms in the industry to lack adequate IT security, making it easier for cybercriminals to carry out effective operations or even use resources stored by architects to launch attacks on their principals.
Whether a company is the direct target of an attack or becomes a victim as a result of wider cybercriminals, the consequences can be just as severe. Popular ransomware malware, which encrypts data and demands payment of a ransom, can significantly hinder and, in undisguised cases, completely stop a company's operations. So-called Distrubuted Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks can effectively prevent customers from accessing the victim's services. In turn, company data leaked and made public by cybercriminals can destroy a reputation built up over years. Cyber attacks can therefore lead not only to impediments to a company's day-to-day operations and financial losses resulting from the need to restore the proper functioning of IT systems, but also to image damage, which in many cases is very difficult or even impossible to repair. Let's summarize the main threats to the architecture industry:
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Ransomware -malware that encrypts a company's data and demands a ransom to restore access can cripple a design firm's operations. In the event of an attack, a company can lose access to all projects and documents, which can lead to serious financial losses and problems with contracted projects.
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Phishing - attacks that impersonate trusted institutions, such as banks, software vendors or co-workers. Clicking on a malicious link or opening a suspicious attachment can lead to the interception of login credentials and access to sensitive information.
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DDoS attacks - blocking access to a company's websites and servers can prevent contact with customers and access to files stored in the cloud. For companies that use online solutions to collaborate on projects, this can mean a complete halt to work.
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Data theft - cybercriminals can seize valuable files, including designs, technical documentation or customers' personal information, and then use them to blackmail or sell them on the black market. This can expose the company to legal and reputational consequences.
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Outdatedsoftware - outdated operating systems and design software can contain vulnerabilities that provide a gateway for cybercriminals.
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Inadequate security for remote work - more and more architecture firms are using remote work, which increases the risk of attacks on unsecured network connections.
The conclusion is obvious - ensuring robust IT protection is an essential part of a company's business planning. Unfortunately, focusing̨ on cyber security while taking care of business growth can be a big problem for small business owners, who often have to face many challenges on their own and do not employ cyber security specialists. In addition, products designed for home users are often insufficient to protect even small organizations, while enterprise solutions, while having extensive technological capabilities, are complicated to use and require specialized personnel. Therefore, small businesses need protection that is both effective and hassle-free to deploy and operate on a daily basis.
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Kaspersky Small Office Security - full and effective protection for architectural businesses
In the face of the aforementioned threats, it is worth betting on effective security tools. Kaspersky Small Office Security offers a number of features that are perfect for architectural companies:
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Advanced protection against ransomware - even in the event of a user error, the system can undo changes made by malware and restore access to all data.
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File encryption mechanisms and backups - ensure that project data remains safe even in the event of a hardware or software failure or loss of a company laptop.
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"Safe Money" technology - secures online transactions, which is important for processing payments, making purchases and logging into online services.
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Mobile device protection - users can safely use laptops, smartphones and tablets, regardless of where they work.
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Security vulnerability search - ensures software is up-to-date and potential vulnerabilities are eliminated.
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High-speed and unlimited VPN - enables secure Internet usage even on public Wi-Fi networks.
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Free technical support in Polish language the entire license period - the price of the product includes extensive support services for installation, troubleshooting potential problems and optimal configuration of protection taking into account customer requirements.
In conclusion, small architectural firms, despite often not having extensive IT resources, are an increasingly frequent target of cyber attacks. Neglecting cyber security can lead to serious financial and even reputational losses. That's why it's worth investing in modern security, employee training and effective data protection strategies. Kaspersky Small Office Security is the ideal solution for architectural offices and freelance professionals - it combines intuitive operation with advanced protection features, providing peace of mind and security.
© Kaspersky
Kaspersky is a trusted manufacturer of security solutions that have been recognized by professionals and customers as among the best in the industry for years. The company boasts̨ record results of effectiveness in independent tests - between 2013 and 2023 its products took part in 827 independent tests and ranked first in 587 cases - no other manufacturer even came close to such results.
The Kaspersky Small Office Security solution is designed on the "install and forget" principle. The protection functions as soon as it is downloaded and installed on corporate devices, without requiring any supervision or action. The solution is available at an attractive price, along with professional technical support in Polish.
For more information, visit https://kaspersky.com.pl/ksos.
