Cybersecurity Beyond October: Maintaining a Secure Business
By: Franco Correia
As we come to the close of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, we’ve enjoyed sharing cybersecurity tips and insights to help safeguard your digital domains. But just because Cybersecurity Awareness Month is winding down doesn’t mean the risks have vanished. The digital landscape is a constant challenge where cyber threats evolve with each passing second. It’s imperative that you maintain a consistent approach to cybersecurity and data protection throughout the year.
According to Check Point Research, Q2 2023 saw the highest number of global cyberattacks in two years marking an 8% growth year over year. Firms are facing an average of 1,250+ attacks per week. The research also shows that 1 out of every 44 organizations worldwide experience a ransomware attack every week. Just in the past month, MGM Resorts reported an estimated $100M loss from cyberattacks that led to a data breach, Caesars Entertainment paid hackers $15M after a cyberattack, and 23andMe had a data breach that affected 999,999 people.
As we come to the close of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, we wanted to share these essential cybersecurity tips to help your organization safeguard itself from cyber threats.
Cybersecurity Best Practices Checklist
o Cybersecurity training
Staying up-to-date on the latest threats and best practices is crucial. Have regular and consistent cybersecurity training sessions to equip employees with the know-how to recognize phishing attempts, create strong and secure passwords, and adhere to your company’s security policies.
o Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA)
MFA or two-factor authentication serves as a second layer of protection against unauthorized access by requiring multiple forms of identification to gain access to sensitive accounts. According to Microsoft, “Implementing MFA can make you 99% less likely to get hacked.”
o Regular security audits and assessments
Regular audits function as the pulse check for your organization’s security health, identifying potential vulnerabilities that could be exploited. Assessments gauge the effectiveness of your existing security measures and pave the way to fortify your security infrastructure.
o Consistently update and patch your systems
Outdated systems can become prime targets for cyber adversaries. Ensuring you consistently apply updates and patches to address known vulnerabilities is essential to maintaining an advantage in this ever-changing landscape.
o Invest in advanced security technologies
Security technologies play an essential role in detecting and mitigating cyber threats. Investing in advanced security infrastructure not only bolsters your defense but also positions your business for long-term security sustainability.
o Security-first culture
Fostering a workplace culture where each team member values cybersecurity is essential. By motivating and recognizing employees who proactively engage in security measures and report potential concerns, you can greatly strengthen your organization’s security stance.
Your cybersecurity commitment doesn’t end with the last day of October; it’s an ongoing endeavor that demands consistent and persistent effort. As 2023 winds down, and throughout the months ahead, keep these cybersecurity best practices a priority. By reviewing and updating your cybersecurity policies regularly, having consistent cybersecurity training, implementing MFA, and promoting a culture of awareness, you can strengthen your resilience against the ever-present digital threats that exist in today’s interconnected landscape.