Cybersecurity is an undeniably hot topic for every organization – no one is immune. The ever-increasing amounts of data, servicing customers through various technologies and employing users who work with multiple devices and in alternate capacities keeps security staff abuzz with concern. A simple security breach can very quickly cripple business operations. Being vigilant when assessing and responding to vulnerabilities is a daunting task, especially in a highly variegated environment. Additionally, the sheer magnitude of the security-related software, hardware, documentation, and potentially different approaches can make any IT professionals’ head spin. To combat the frustration, an organization can apply enforced standards and practices.
According to the US National Cybersecurity Alliance, 60% of small businesses fail within 6 months of a cyber-attack.
Small businesses find it particularly difficult to recover from a significant security breach. At the same time, they don’t have the budget or infrastructure that large, enterprise organizations have. The following suggestions will help you implement and sustain a robust cybersecurity program that will evolve along with technology.
- Information Security Officer – Who will be in charge of information security? An organization should establish a lead point of contact for all things related to information security. The leader may be the CIO, IT team, or an entire department. Creating a single voice that is consistent, considerate, and knowledgeable is paramount to a successful security program. Cybersecurity touches most, if not all, employees in a corporation and each department’s unique needs should be considered. Having an inconsistent message, along with conflicting policies and procedures, can undermine a cybersecurity system before it begins. Leadership and enforcement are integral to making a program work.
- Risk Assessment – Chart and assess risks. Security risks should be evaluated to establish importance and viability, not only monetarily but organizationally. Something critical for one user may be relatively insignificant in the broader organizational scheme. Understanding information classification is essential when considering internal and external vulnerabilities. Private data, for example, should weigh heavier than public website data and therefore be more critically assessed and reviewed.
- Conversely, a public website’s security is important. Its needs for security are merely different than restricted data. A chart of risks can allow the organization, as a whole, to set mandates for a working cybersecurity environment.
- Promote a Cyber Security Culture – Modern workplaces are exhibiting trends toward more personal freedom in selecting devices and software employees use to remain productive. This freedom to choose may be a working solution for employees but can make managing security more complex. A carefully constructed security model, employee training, and a more security-aware workforce can offer a layer of prevention when it comes to cybersecurity. Developing security-based habits in employees rather than eliminating flexibility can provide a win-win situation. Providing clear guidelines where security is concerned will prevent many problems while building a compliant cultural.
An organization prepared to combat cyber threats is an organization that is positioned to succeed. The need for cybersecurity is an unfortunate consequence of the modern economy, but not something that should be dismissed or taken lightly. A focused approach using simplified concepts, knowledgeable points of contact, and informed employees will, in turn, make a proactive cybersecurity program that can continually assess, react, and diminish threats.
ConnectOn can help you identify which security solutions are truly effective and to know how to layer the security approach to provide you with the most reliable protection for your digital property.