Cybersecurity looms large as a threat this year. When people started working remotely in 2020, cybercrime ballooned. By 2021, the cost was nearly $6 trillion to the global economy. This year could be just as bad, especially for companies expanding digital operations. These losses are not inevitable. Here are six ways you can safeguard your business online.
1. Defend Every Endpoint
Modern workforces use a vast array of networked devices. These devices can be powerful assets. They also prevent unique security challenges. Users often have no uniform standard of security software. Employees might access insecure WiFi portals to do their work. Some security issues are specific to cloud computing. Misconfiguration of cloud security settings and high cardinality in observability are two of the more serious. With so many individuals using multiple devices, ensure everyone is on the same page regarding security precautions.
2. Train Employees to Recognize Threats
A recent study by security giant Tessian uncovered an alarming statistic. 43% of employees admitted to mistakes at work that compromised computer security. Most of these mistakes were and remain glaringly simple. Those who admitted to them were often uncertain as to whether they erred at all. The most important skill to teach is recognition. Often, employees don’t know what a fraudulent website looks like. They enter sensitive data without knowing what they’ve done. Teach everyone on your network the warning signs of scams and fraud.
3. Install Firewall Systems
Modern companies typically deal with high volumes of incoming emails. Unfortunately, emails are routinely used by criminals to deliver malware to unsuspecting victims. Clicking on a link will infect the target computer. Adding a firewall system to your digital defenses can head off these attacks. A firewall will monitor email traffic for signs of trouble and flag any potential threats. Consider adding this extra layer of security to your extant systems.
4. Prioritize Safe Data Storage
According to research by the Ponemon Institute and IBM, the average cost of a data breach in 2021 was $161 per record compromised. Keeping data stored offline is the most effective solution. An encrypted USB drive is one workable idea. Don’t underestimate the power of keeping hard copy records, either. Remember, having backups of the most important data is always optimal since the cost of repair and recovery can be considerable. Data is the treasure of the information age. Treat it as such.
5. Adopt a Zero-Trust Approach
The best defense against cyberattacks is assuming the worst. That’s the philosophy behind zero-trust security architecture. The core of the zero-trust architecture is limiting the network access of new users to the bare minimum. Preventing lateral movement within your system limits the harm an intruder can do. The same architecture emphasizes multiple levels of authentication for system access. It might feel like paranoia, but assuming the worst can prevent it from happening.
6. Strengthen Validation Protocols
Passwords are just too weak. That’s according to the latest statistical reports regarding the role of compromised passwords in data breaches. The advent of multifactor authentication (MFA) is helping to alleviate the worst issues. This method requires two or more factors to verify identity. MFA isn’t always possible and traditional passwords are still viable. Science says they should consist of 12 or more randomized characters to be most effective. Don’t let weak passwords make things easy for cybercriminals.
7. Remember Physical Security
Just because the frontlines of cybersecurity are digital doesn’t mean you should neglect physical security. Hackers will often go dumpster diving for hastily-discarded identity information. Burglaries can also net unsecured devices. All computers should be kept locked securely after hours. Keyholders should be your most trusted employees only. If possible, keep cameras trained on entry and exit points. Remember: The best digital gadgets are next to useless if your devices get stolen.
Data breaches don’t have to happen. If criminals can use technology to cause harm, entrepreneurs can use it to make cyberspace safer. Use these tips as a starting point for improving your company’s cybersecurity plan.
