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What Are Cyber Security Fundamentals?


What Are Cyber Security Fundamentals?

This entry was posted on by Tammy Nyman.
Laptop phone and book locked in a chain

Cyber security is the practice of protecting networks, systems, programs and devices from cyber attacks. These digital attacks are designed to typically do one or more of the following – extort money from users, destroy critical information, change or modify sensitive information or disrupt routine business practices.

As cyber attackers are becoming increasingly innovative and savvy, implementing an effective cyber security plan for your business can be challenging. In order to maintain a compliant workplace, employee awareness about cyber security best practices and organizational protocols is essential. Learn about what the 4 cyber security fundamentals are below.

#1 Protect Devices

Any device being used to connect online, whether it be a smartphone, laptop, tablet or iPad must be equipped with cutting edge device protection security. Having a real-time anti-virus is essential and the device protection should always include remote management features to eliminate the need for user input.

Corporate password management applications need to function seamlessly across mobile platforms and employees should receive proper training on all software systems. Automatic software updates should be enabled and any third-party applications that can be vulnerable such as Java or Adobe need to be monitored for the latest security patch recommendation.

#2 Protect Connections

Once devices have been connected online, even more security is necessary to protect the information that these devices transmit over the internet. On top of individual device protection, each device should be equipped with a Virtual Private Network (known as a VPN) which encrypts internet traffic, protects the user’s identity, as well as all information transacted online (like shopping or banking) while using public WIFI.

VPNs used to have a bad reputation for being slow or clunky, but today’s offerings provide much better service, delivering a seamless user experience.

#3 Protect Email

Emails are one of the most common ways that hackers will send an exploit designed to access a users computer or a business network. While spam messages are frequently used to send Malware, there can also be some clever ways that hackers can try to attack. Malicious emails can be sent that look convincing or designed to mimic a reputable organization’s website. Typically, these messages will include a link and once clicked, will download Malware and can comprise your entire organizational network. To help combat email cyber attacks, follow these steps.

  • Use a reputable email filter that prevents employees from coming in contact with a cyber threat.
  • Train staff to be aware of unsolicited emails and never to click on suspicious links or attachments.
  • Implement password guidelines so that users do not use the same password for multiple programs. That way if an email password gets hacked, other accounts or applications will not be able to be accessed using the same credentials.

#4 Backup

Whether your organization uses a public cloud or private cloud hosting service, make sure that all electronic documents are routinely backed up. Having a secure backup system in place can help your business manage disaster recovery and be prepared should you be subject to a cyber attack. This can mean the difference of not having to pay ransomware fines and getting back to routine operations almost immediately versus being faced with a major disruption and large data gaps to restore.

Committing to facilitating an organizational culture that is dedicated to practicing the four fundamentals of cyber security is the best defense that your organization will have against malicious attacks. To find out if your organization is up to date with cyber security best practices, get a free analysis today.

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Tammy Nyman
Tammy Nyman
EVP & Managed IT Services Expert
For more information call us at: (905) 307-4357 or fill out our contact form and we’ll reach out to you.

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