Cybersecurity has never been more critical in our ever-increasingly interconnected world, where information flows freely through the internet, and businesses rely heavily on technology. Research data suggests that about 50% of the five billion people with access to the internet have already been compromised. Four thousand times a day, cybercriminals try to gain unauthorized access to your computer and other internet-enabled devices to steal data or cause damage.
The digital landscape, as are the tactics these cyber criminals use, is constantly changing. They target everything from personal data to sensitive corporate information, with the potential for devastating consequences. Ransomware attacks (which now cost businesses in the US $20 billion per year), data breaches, and phishing scams are just a few examples of the threats organizations face daily.
Claudette McGowan, the CEO of Protexxa (a leading Black-owned cybersecurity firm with a proven track record of excellence in safeguarding businesses against a wide range of cyber threats), shares three tips for protecting your organization from cyber-attacks.
Tip #1: Educate and Prepare Your Team
Knowledge is power when it comes to cybersecurity. To fortify your defences, consider scheduling sessions within your organization to educate team members about ransomware. Ransomware is a type of malicious software that blocks access to a computer system until a ransom is paid.
Creating and periodically refreshing a playbook outlining the steps to take during a ransomware attack is crucial. Questions like who will make critical decisions, which stakeholders need to be informed, and how to handle negotiations with cybercriminals need clear answers. Preparedness is key to minimizing the impact of a cyber incident.
Tip #2: Ensure Comprehensive Visibility of Tech Assets and Key Suppliers
Understanding your technology inventory and key partners is paramount. This includes everything from hardware and software to connections, APIs, and third-party suppliers. If you lack a robust tracking system, you might have significant gaps that could prove costly in the long run.
Complete visibility into your technology ecosystem forms the foundation of solid cybersecurity hygiene and controls. When a cyberattack occurs, swift decisions are essential. Don’t let poor administration slow you down when time is of the essence.
Tip #3: Learn from Others
Many organizations fall victim to cyberattacks due to delayed software patching, weak password controls, or underestimating their attractiveness to hackers. Even well-resourced companies can neglect these basics.
When a breach is reported, take the opportunity to understand how the organization was hacked. Ask yourself whether similar vulnerabilities exist within your company. Learning from the experiences of others is a powerful way to bolster your defences.
The Path Forward
Cybersecurity is not a one-time effort but an ongoing commitment. As the digital landscape evolves, so do the threats. By taking proactive steps to protect your organization’s digital fortress, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to cyberattacks and ensure the safety of your data, reputation, and bottom line.
Contacting Protexxa at 1-877-992-9237 or via email at learn@protexxa.com is an excellent place to start for a thorough cybersecurity assessment to ensure your organization is protected from cybersecurity threats. Protexxa also assists with cyber support, training or consulting.
