Why VPN Vulnerabilities Are on the Rise and How to Safeguard Your Organization Against Growing Cyber Threats

Virtual private networks (VPNs) are a cornerstone of cybersecurity—especially for businesses embracing hybrid work, remote access, and data privacy. However, recent high-profile breaches and a sharp increase in VPN-related cyberattacks reveal a sobering truth: when left unprotected or poorly maintained, VPNs can become a serious security liability.

According to a recent report by Zscaler ThreatLabz, 56% of businesses experienced a VPN-related cyberattack in the past year. Meanwhile, industry experts warn that aging encryption protocols, weak authentication methods, and neglected software patches are creating open doors for bad actors. The infamous Ivanti Pulse Connect Secure breach is just one example of how hackers can exploit zero-day vulnerabilities in VPN hardware to infiltrate even government agencies and financial institutions.

The Hidden Risks Behind Your VPN

VPNs are designed to create encrypted tunnels for secure internet access, but this protection can quickly unravel due to:

• Outdated encryption protocols that are easily bypassed by sophisticated attackers
• Weak or missing authentication measures that allow brute-force entry
• Poor patch management and software misconfigurations
• Coding errors and misconfigured systems that leave backdoors open

These weaknesses can lead to far-reaching consequences, including operational disruption, data theft, reputational damage, legal liabilities, and even ransomware deployment. In fact, 60% of ransomware-related cyber insurance claims stem from VPN attacks.

6 Ways to Mitigate VPN Vulnerabilities

To minimize exposure and improve cyber resilience, businesses should:

1. Conduct regular cyber risk assessments - Understand which assets, users, and workflows need VPN access, and where the vulnerabilities lie.
2. Choose a secure, reliable VPN provider - Opt for vendors that offer high-grade encryption, no-logs policies, and strong reputations in the cybersecurity space.
3. Enable layered security features - Use multifactor authentication, data leak prevention tools, antivirus integrations, and patch management systems.
4. Continuously monitor network traffic - Use endpoint detection and threat intelligence tools to detect and respond to abnormal activity in real time.
5. Educate your employees - Train staff on safe VPN use, strong password habits, and red flags of suspicious activity.
6. Evaluate alternative technologies - Consider transitioning to more advanced remote access solutions like Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) or Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) for enhanced control.

Ready to Reevaluate Your Cyber Risk Strategy?

Even the most sophisticated tools can become liabilities if they aren’t monitored and managed effectively. As VPN vulnerabilities grow more common and more costly, proactive risk reviews are essential.

No business is immune from cyber risk. At RMC Group, we take a proactive approach to risk management by helping business owners identify vulnerabilities and tailor insurance solutions that protect your operations, data, and reputation. Whether you're looking to assess your current coverage or implement a more comprehensive strategy, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Let us help you stay one step ahead of cyber risks—so you can focus on growing your business with confidence. Contact our office today at 239-298-8210 or rmc@rmcgp.com.

🎧 Listen to our latest podcast episode on risk reviews to hear how RMC Group is helping businesses identify any gaps in coverage and make sure the protection aligns with the business goals.