The uptick in cybersecurity breaches across various industries has drawn a central focus on what businesses can actually do to intercept or prevent threats to their privacy - and the privacy of their customers. Additionally, because businesses are using AI tools to supplement their CRMs and even cybersecurity programs themselves, the question presents itself -
What does an effective cybersecurity strategy look like?
And,
What are the possible risks that come with utilizing automation to monitor and implement this process across your organization?
Of course, it is possible to research techniques and products, and then apply these to your business individually. However, reaching an outcome that is effective in preempting cybersecurity threats before they even happen, factors in your long-term goals and the trends of security threats and doesn't break the bank? Often businesses will outsource their cybersecurity protection because IT branches within the organization don’t have the resources or time to manage systems along with their other day-to-day operations. Additionally, the evolving cybersecurity threats mean that the required skillset to deal with them may be beyond that of the current cybersecurity measures put in place within your business.
Furthermore, businesses often struggle to implement cybersecurity AI effectively on their own, as the complexity of the system may be new territory for IT professionals.
That's where external software partners come in. Seeking external help can ensure that all of your organization's needs are met - not just for the present, but also for the future. The trained eye of security experts can spot the fake and the fruitful when it comes to cybersecurity solutions for your organization. Additionally, it's far more cost-effective to get expert tips over distinct cybersecurity solutions that are designed especially for your business - and the common breaches that occur within your industry. In this blog, we've put together an informative checklist of cybersecurity solutions you should look for when you upgrade your system. We've prioritized budget optimization with the gaze of small-medium-sized cybersecurity investment goals, personalization of approach and adaptability. Read on to discover how your organization could benefit, and provide a safer and more secure experience for customers and staff alike.
How Do You Make Working From Home Cybersecure? Here's Our Number One Necessity
If you're going to have a hybrid workplace, chances are, you're going to have an upped risk in cybersecurity. That's because access to your network isn't localized and there is a higher chance that private networks like home or public Wifi connections can easily be intercepted, and data can be simply transplanted. Enter the VPN. Virtual Private Networks - they are essentially a corridor that connects your home internet to the beefed-up security connection of your private work network. As such, employees can connect from wherever they are in the world without the worry that their connection is going to be intercepted or hacked. VPNs can be varying in strength, meaning connecting with a digital technology partner is going to greatly up your chances in seeking out a VPN that is properly fortified and isn't simple for hackers to find.
However, with VPNs comes the responsibility of assuring that the correct information is accessed by the correct people. As such, you may need to streamline your collaborative process across your team. Automate sharing for people whose role aligns with the document or project materials, rather than inviting anyone with a link to view the information. Doing so can bring on the potential of unwanted viewers and editors, as well as leaks in private documentation. Conduct regular inspections of the VPN network access and consider partnering this with AI technology to ensure you get instant updates if an outside party connects with your network.
Your Information May Not Be Secure, Here's What to Do About It
Unfortunately, the old technique of a firewall and a malware detection device just doesn't cut the mustard anymore. Hackers are smarter, more dexterous and have far more stealth than the old days. One of the common breaches over the last few years has been information leaks from businesses and customers - particularly private data. When looking to evolve your security strategy, it's integral that you look on an international scale. Statistics indicate that hacking can often occur from anywhere in the globe - meaning strengthening your security should include looking at international trends.
When speaking to your cybersecurity expert, they should advise you that they're willing to go the distance - your security system should be complex and layered from the perspective of a possible hacker. Thus, employing a partner that is able to monitor and suggest tweaks throughout the course of your usage is essential. You're looking to spend effectively, and get the most out of your experience - not be stuck with a system you have no idea how to operate, or that is costing a fortune for little benefit.
Similarly, you should always ask your provider how they will adapt their product or system to changes in global compliance - transparency is key, and your experience should exemplify clear communication. Your budget deserves to be invested intelligently - and having open communication channels is essential to maintaining this promise. It's a red flag if you aren't getting full insight from your partner!
Get a Fully-Personalized Cybersecurity System Without the Hassle of Building It Yourself - Here's How
As mentioned above, in order to beat hackers at their own game - your system needs to be complex, layered and most importantly, unique. If your system is able to pick up on threats before they even enter your business's database, you won't risk compromising data because your reaction time is instantaneous. Software experts can assist you by listing out the exact requirements of your business when it comes to cybersecurity - analyzing risk and the data you need to protect are key steps in developing a personalized cybersecurity system that protects your customers, stakeholders and your staff. A broad approach to data security is like swatting at a fire with any old blanket, rather than a fire blanket made for putting out flames. A hyperpersonalized cybersecurity system is like your very own fire blanket - yes, the kitchen is unlikely to erupt into flames, but if it does, you won't even have to think about your emergency action plan; it's right there and ready to go.
Ask your partner about plans after implementation - once the system is installed, just like a smoke detector, it will need to be checked to ensure it's working. Partners can assist your organization with continual check-in procedures to identify any areas that need to change, and help you adapt to new cybersecurity trends. Additionally, the education process is essential to finding a cybersecurity system that works for you - working with your partner to introduce your team to the features of the technology will ensure you are familiar with the benefits you're receiving. For example, we offer security training programs to provide detailed insights on topics such as security awareness to help your team identify commonalities in risk across your industry.
The Off-Boarding Process Matters - This is Why
When you have an employee leaving your business, there's an exchange of accounts, details, work data that needs to be handed back to the organization and implemented accordingly. However, this process can pop up as a chance for information to be leaked or compromised if you're undertaking it manually. Making use of a defined Security Operations Centre establishes a process for how you can offboard employees in a secure manner.
Sticking to a proven system each time means that there are less likely to be errors made - particularly if you're using a digital-driven series of steps, rather than manually carrying them out yourself. In the process of manually deleting accounts, emails, CRM profiles, chat profiles and database access, there are plenty of touchpoints wherein you can leave gaps for unwelcome cybersecurity breaches. Instead, consider the ability of automation to partner your cybersecurity branch and complete this process for you. It will significantly lessen the turnaround time for all of your digital off-boarding, and thereby lessen the risk of hacking.
Strong Passwords... Are They Enough to Protect Your Data? We Think Not.
Whether you're working with a software partner or not, implementing higher standards of security across your staff and customers' data touchpoints is crucial. This means combining some of the authentification factors you may already be familiar with, in the same way that Google provides two-factor authentication for accessing your account.
Setting requirements for password creation is essential - consider implementing standards around special characters, uppercase and lowercase letters and numerals. After entering their password, staff may then receive a notification on their phone to enter a code, so that their account can only be accessed by themselves. If you evolve this to multi factor-authentication, users may even be able to use Face ID to access their account. While passwords are a first step to protecting your security, it's important to partner this with constant device security management strategies and firewall upgrades. Your partner can provide upgrades to different firewalls to ensure your business is protected on all fronts. To ensure maximum security, your business should have reinforced hardware (physical protection barriers between your organization's network and the internet), software (security for your device itself) and cloud firewalls (overarching security that protects your business information and data externally).
Another good idea is to schedule staff in to change their password after a period of time, meaning that the likelihood of account hacking is lessened significantly. Additionally, you should make use of features such as sensitivity labels for emails to ensure that if the intended recipient does not receive the email, you can automatically address it. Email applications such as Google and Outlook have automated features that warn a recipient if a message is sent outside of their organization - however, you can further address this with the help of a software partner who can analyze your emailing system to preempt risks and protect communications within your organization.
This is Why Automation Will be the Number One Preventative Tool for Security, Going Forward
Automated safety features, such as automatic account-locking if an unexpected device signs into your account, are the future of cybersecurity. With the help of AI, you can receive automatic, real-time security updates that support your business - known as Intrusion Detection Systems.
For example, you could get a notification from Google providing a security report that documents gathered details on a cyber attack it has blocked from your data. Preventative automation responses with AI are known as Intrusion Prevention Systems. Tools such as Microsoft's Security CoPilot will provide a range of innovative safety features that work in tandem with all of the products across their suite. Whether it be protecting large volumes of data or securing project management correspondence, Copilot will assist you in automatically tracking and responding to potential threats.
Why You Should Leave the AES - Advanced Encryption System - To The Experts
When you have a security platform that is built from the ground up to suit your business's individual needs, experts can create high-end encryption that renders any compromises in data or information entirely inaccessible to potential hackers. End-to-end encryption can be thought of as a form of preventative chameleon-effect for your business and customer information. Meaning that in order to access it, you have to bypass several layers of coding and concealment that stop the data and information from being readable.
Sound complex? It sure is. That's why your best practise is to enlist the help of an external security team who have experience in designing uncrackable encryptions for your system. Not only will the team support in implementing the security system, but they can then monitor it regularly to ensure that all encryptions are working as they should be.
Why You Should Stop Putting Off That Security System Backup or Upgrade
Your security system is much like a loaf of bread. If you leave said bread out in the pantry without eating it, it gets stale very quickly and then it gets mouldy. Then you end up throwing it out. Think about upgrading your security system like toasting that bread. You're proactively using the security system for what it's supposed to do - additionally, you're ensuring that all the latest features are working and that you can respond to any new hacking trends by blocking them. Supplementing this, it's essential to routinely back up your data - that's because if something does happen and data is lost or compromised, you'll have all your records organized and copied ahead of time. This prevents delays and protects your network infrastructure.
Education for Your Team is Essential
If there are phishing emails that are being sent - as though they are from members within your organization - your team needs to be trained to spot the fraudulent from the official. As we mentioned previously, hacking is becoming extremely advanced and links within phishing emails impersonating familiar contacts are responsible for a large majority of the workplace data breaches. Thus, communicating to your team what red flags they need to look out for can greatly limit the amount of data that is intercepted by hackers. For example, you may receive an email informing you that there is a professional development task you’ve yet to complete with a link that allows hackers to install malware on your computer. This is particularly important for phishing emails that claim financial action is required - commonly trapping users within unwanted and unauthorized transactions and access to personal financial accounts. Invest in the training that provides examples of what fraudulent activity looks like.
Why Should I Invest in Cybersecurity Help?
As technology like AI becomes publicly available, so do the threats and technical challenges that come with it. Striking the balance between human interaction and automation is necessary to achieve a cybersecurity approach that works - and this is best progressed with the help of an external partner. Knowing what your business needs and then implementing this both digitally and on an educational level for your staff is key to a smart investment. Every dollar that you spend on your security should be valued, and backed up with proven results. That's why seeking external support is not to be taken lightly, but we advise that with the following questions and goals in mind, you can approach an initial conversation about cybersecurity with confidence. Ready to get started? Book in a chat with our team of security experts today.