Cyber security is an increasingly important aspect of today’s digital age where the bulk of our personal and professional lives are conducted online. Here are some cyber security tips to help keep your organisation’s data safe.
- Deliver regular cyber security awareness training
One of the most common causes of cyber incidents is human error. You should provide cyber security awareness training about the latest cyber risks and best practices on a regular basis. This training can include phishing simulation tests to help staff become familiar with how to recognise and report suspicious emails.
- Use strong passwords and a password manager
A strong password is your first line of defence against unauthorised access to your accounts. Our advice would be to use unique passwords of at least 16 characters and to use a password manager to store your passwords.
- Enable multi-factor authentication
Multi-factor authentication adds extra layers of security to your accounts by requiring a second factor, such as a code sent to your phone, in addition to your password. You should enable MFA on all accounts that offer it.
- Monitor and test your backups
You should monitor and test your backups regularly. This ensures that you won’t lose important information in the event of a cyber-attack, device loss or theft. Where possible you should make use of backup technology that can save immutable copies of your data. These immutable (or “offline”) backups are protected even in the event of catastrophic failure or a ransomware incident that attempts to ransom your data and backups.
- Encrypt your devices
Encryption helps to protect sensitive data stored on your devices. Use BitLocker for Windows devices or equivalent encryption solutions for other operating systems.
- Manage and protect assets
You can implement an asset management system to keep track of all devices, software and data that make up your digital assets, alongside which users have access. Mobile device management solutions can be implemented to help manage, secure and keep devices updated.
- Manage permissions and security
You should implement access controls to limit which staff members have access to sensitive information and systems. Access permissions should be logged and reviewed as necessary to ensure that only those who need access to specific information and systems have it.
- Conduct regular data audits
To ensure your data is safe you can conduct regular audits of data and your data management processes to ensure that sensitive information is correctly restricted and that all data privacy regulations are being followed.
- Develop a cyber incident response plan
A cyber incident response plan outlines the steps that you will take in the event of a security breach. The plan should include steps for responding to a breach, communicating with stakeholders, and mitigating damage. The plan should be regularly tested and updated to ensure that it is effective.
- Monitor and manage insider threats
Insider threats can come from employees, contractors, or business partners who have authorised access to your network and sensitive data. Implement access controls and monitoring processes to detect and prevent any malicious activities.
How we can help
Our cyber security services will safeguard your organisation from cyber threats and vulnerabilities, whether accidental or malicious. If you’re looking for cyber security services, contact us to discuss.