Cyber security is an ongoing issue for business and it’s only going to get bigger as more and more malicious software is developed and hacking becomes easier.
Not only do businesses need to worry about the data loss and the direct impact on business but also the PR blowback and obligations under the Mandatory Data Breach Notification laws.
Hackers use different techniques and mediums to accomplish their goals, including: social engineering, phishing, smishing and ransomware, to name a few.
With so many different threats out there, what can a business do to improve their cyber security?
Users are the last line of defence in your business. It doesn’t matter how great your security software is or how much you spend, all it takes is one misplaced click on an email and your whole system can be compromised.
Staff should be trained to pick out red flags and the techniques that hackers use to encourage people to give up valuable information.
Communication is key to improving cyber security in your business. Making sure you continually remind staff of best practices and reaffirm the importance of the cyber security training they are undertaking will help get all departments on board.
By letting staff know when there are scam emails floating around it reminds them how prevalent these scams are and highlights the different ways a hacker can gain access.
A formal cyber security plan can be included in your overall IT or Technology Strategy. A formal, documented plan for cyber security will mean that staff have a process to follow if such an incident arises.
Are your staff using outdated computers? Are all software patches up to date? Is new software compatible with your current hardware? These type of questions are ones that are addressed in technology or cyber security strategies, and allow you to see where there may be risks in your business.
As part of your formal plan, it’s worthwhile including a Disaster Recovery Plan in the event that the worst case scenario does happen.
This tip may sound counter intuitive but there are real benefits to testing your staff with different social engineering techniques.
Regularly sending simulated phishing emails to employees reinforces their security training and keeps them on their toes with security top of mind.
Companies that have implemented white hat phishing and training have seen a significant drop in staff clicking on compromised emails.
Cyber Security is becoming more important for both clients and businesses with clients expecting that their personal data is protected. Businesses now have a responsibility to make sure their client’s information is protected and reasonable steps are made to ensure it never falls into the wrong hands.