Employees working at an organization must do their part to secure the business and its private data from cybersecurity attacks and threats. These can be from executives to marketing teams to the IT staff. There are several steps that employees and leaders can take In cybersecurity. It helps them to make sure the business is protected from any potential loss of resources, reputation, and revenue. In this article, we will mention what cybersecurity is, its potential threats, and best practices to safeguard data in your business.
What is Cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity is an approach to securing systems, programs, and networks from any digital attacks. These cyberattacks are often aimed at assessing, destroying, or changing sensitive information. Furthermore, they also extort money from users through ransomware or interrupt normal business processes. Implementing effective cybersecurity practices is challenging nowadays. It is so because of the high availability of devices more than people, and also, the attackers are becoming more creative. Here is a list of some common cyber threats:
- Cyberterrorism: This type of threat is a politically-based attack on information technology or computers. It will cause harm and create extensive social disruption.
- Malware: This threat includes spyware, ransomware, worms, and viruses. It can install dangerous software and block access to your computer resources. Moreover, it can also disrupt the system or secretly transmit information from your data storage.
- Trojans: Similar to the Trojan Horse myth, this attack tricks the users into thinking they are opening a harmless file. Instead, when the trojan is in place, it attacks the system. Typically, it can also establish a backdoor that enables access to cybercriminals.
- Phishing: Hackers utilize false communications, particularly e-mail. They do so to fool the recipient into opening it and following instructions that often ask for personal information.
- Botnets: This hideous attack includes large-scale cyber-attacks performed by remotely controlled malware-infected devices. Consider it as a string of computers under the control of one connecting cybercriminal. What is worse is that compromised devices become part of the botnet system.
Best Practices for Cybersecurity
We have mentioned some of the best practices that you can follow to avoid potential cyber-attacks and threats.
Implement a Strong Cybersecurity Strategy
“It may be helpful to perform a cybersecurity audit in your company to evaluate your current situation. Note down what security measures you have in place. Moreover, make sure that all employees are aware of potential security threats and risks and how they can protect against them. Ensure that all the networks and data of the company are protected with multiple layers of security.” – Brian Bosscher, owner and founder of Condo Control
Create a people-centric cybersecurity approach. It must be robust, which means it should protect all types of data, specifically proprietary and sensitive information. The strategy should consider the employees and end users, updating and enforcing security policies.
Update and Enforce Security Policies
“Businesses need to consistently update security policies. It is essential as various departments and functions adopt new tools, technology, and ways of dealing with data. Security policies are significant and must have regular updates. Furthermore, the employees must be trained to act in accordance with each policy update.” – Eran Mizrahi, CEO of Ingredient Brothers
One of the best practices to enforce security policies is zero-trust architecture. It is a strategic approach to cybersecurity that consistently validates at each stage of digital interaction with data and information. For instance, it includes computer settings and multi-factor authentication. It may require the users to enter their password whenever they are away for 10 minutes.
Install Security Updates and Backup Data
Most companies accumulate large amounts of data on users and customers. Businesses need to be strategic about backing up their data and how to manage these backups. Companies must train their employees to update their software whenever there is an upgraded version. This often means the program fixed bugs, added new features, or improved security.
Use Multi-Factor Authentication and Strong Passwords
A common practice in preventing threats is to use multi-factor authentication. In this feature, you will need to verify your identity on two different devices. It is usually done on your computer or phone to decrease the chances of fraudulent activity.
In addition, regular internet users might know password requirements. These include uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols to create a strong password. Company tools and systems tend to have similar requirements. Some companies might even have complicated passwords for users to have maximum security.
Collaborate with the IT Department to Avoid Attacks
“Business leaders can take advantage of working with the IT department and support staff to manage any cyberattacks. They can also prevent these threats and risks from happening in the first place. The preventative measures look will differ depending on the size, industry, and other factors of the organization. This may include working with a cybersecurity consultant beside your IT team. It helps to determine strategies like whether to utilize cloud technologies. Plus, it also helps to know which security measures you should take and how to roll out a plan for end users and employees.” – Alex Taylor, Head of Marketing at CrownTV
Perform Regular Cybersecurity Audits
“It is also a good idea to perform regular cybersecurity audits. Through a cybersecurity audit, you can establish criteria that companies and employees can use. They can continuously monitor their defence against risks, specifically as cybersecurity threats grow more sophisticated. You should conduct an audit at least once a year. However, the experts recommend that organizations dealing with big data and personal information should audit at least twice a year. These audits can help businesses to keep up with legal requirements and compliance. Auditors might empower a company to streamline and simplify their processes and tools. These steps will contribute to a greater defense against cyberattacks.” – Tia Campbell, Director of Marketing at Practice Reasoning Tests
Control Access to Sensitive Information
“In every company, the IT team is responsible for managing and providing individuals with access to information. These include highly classified information, controlling access to security passwords, and more. Sometimes, only some people can be trusted with the financial data and trade secrets of the company. Most employees are offered the fewest access rights possible. Often, the access is only granted upon request or during particular circumstances.” – Natalie McCalla, Co-Owner and Creative Director of Alpine Dog Company Inc
Encourage IT Training and Education
“All the mentioned cybersecurity best practices are meant for businesses to implement. However, much of it depends on employees to ensure they are creating strong passwords and following all security policies. IT and cybersecurity training should be given when employees receive onboarding at the beginning of their journey with the organization. Continuous IT support, education, and security updates should be embedded in their workflow. It will help them to continue to make sure they follow all the cybersecurity measures. Organizations should also raise awareness among employees that they are following the best cybersecurity practices. Furthermore, they should also explain why these practices are important and provide proper guidelines on what is expected of them.” – Kartik Ahuja, Marketing Manager at PortaPotty
Conclusion
Cybersecurity solutions are transforming as rapidly as cyber threats. The first and foremost step towards cybersecurity strategy is to know where you stand today through a cybersecurity audit. These audits allow you to get a comprehensive and independent analysis of your present cyber security posture. It can help you find vulnerabilities, expose weaknesses, and mitigate the risk of attacks and high-risk practices. With the analysis, you can continue to build trust and confidence with your major investors and customers alike.
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