Graham Cluley points out the obvious statement - don’t be foolish when it comes to your online data security, it doesn’t matter how big or small your business, or what industry you work in, data breaches pose a real threat to all of us.
In addition to monetary fines, a data breach can result in long-term reputational damage, business disruption, staff and customer churn. It also comes down to the prominence of strengthening internal security through staff training and other security measures such as encryption coding and access management. After all the second largest contributor to data breaches globally is human error.
A leading technology company Cisco emphasises that a successful cyber security approach has multiple layers of protection spread across the computers, networks, programs, or data that one intends to keep safe. In an organisation, the people, processes, and technology must all complement one another to create an effective defence from cyber-attacks. Implementing effective cyber security measures is particularly challenging today because there are more devices than people, and attackers are becoming more innovative.
In today’s age, there are more cyber-attacks evolving danger to organisations, employees, and consumers. They may be designed to access or destroy sensitive data or extort money, which can, in effect, destroy businesses and damage people’s financial and personal lives. However, Norton advises that you don’t need to be a cyber security specialist to understand and practice cyber defence tactics. You’ll learn more about cyber security and how to help defend yourself against cyber threats. Below are the typical types of cyber threats that your business could be vulnerable to:
• Social Engineering – the process of psychologically manipulating people into performing actions or giving away information
• APTs (Advanced Persistent Threats) – attacks by an unauthorised user in a network that stays there for a long time
• Malware – malicious software, is a type of attack on availability. It refers to software that is designed to gain access or damage a computer without the knowledge of the owner. Several common types of malware include spyware, key loggers, true viruses, and worms.
Check out this guide by the HM Government for you to look at how to improve cyber security in your business – quickly, easily and at low cost.
FRSecure says there 5 ways you can protect your business from a cyber attack online:
1. Update everything - users must understand and comply with basic data security principles like choosing strong passwords, being wary of attachments in email, and backing up data. Learn more about basic cyber security principles. More devices than you realize are connected to the internet. Your phone, router, printer, and even some refrigerators could potentially pose a threat. One of the simplest ways to avoid being hacked is to consistently update these devices. By staying up-to-date on the latest software and news surrounding your devices, you’ll not only avoid unwanted bugs and glitches, but you’ll also increase their security.
2. Freeze Your Credit - it shouldn’t be a surprise that your credit is vulnerable, especially given recent breaches like the Equifax one that compromised 145.5 million records of sensitive customer data. If this breach (or other cyber attacks) is something that you’re worried about, you should have already frozen your credit. If not, it’s certainly something to consider moving forward that can prevent your credit from being stolen or affected in the future.
3. Teach - Once you’ve learned how to catch on to scams, phishing attempts, social engineering trends, etc., pass your knowledge on!
4. Learn Common Scams - reading the news to stay current will keep you in the loop about what attackers and social engineers are doing. Developing a strong knowledge base around hacking trends is a crucial way for you to not fall victim to attacks.
5. Lock it Down - strong, secure passwords are easy and effective ways to limit your risks. Long, random and complex passwords make it much more challenging for anyone unwanted to access your data. And use a password manager.
If you liked this post, please share with you friends and followers. If you are also doing some amazing things with digital apps and technology, why not enter yourself for the Digital Enterprise Top 100 initiative. Entries close on May 3 2019. www.de100.co.uk
GOOD LUCK
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