How does your organisation protect itself against cyber security attacks?

This is an important question and businesses of all sizes, no matter how small or big must have an answer to it.

As cybercrimes are on a rise it is essential that the stakeholders of the organisations understand the need to educate themselves around the basics of cyber security, what it actually means, why is it so important, and more.

A strong understanding of the concept will give you the power to identify and choose the best solution when implementing measures to protect your business against potential threats. Without a strong cyber security strategy in place, it is nearly impossible for any business to defend attackers attempting to hack into organisations data and systems.

If it is something you and your organisation have neglected, now is the time to reflect, gain clarity and safeguard yourself from any future risks.

What is meant by Cyber security? 

Cyber security refers to measures undertaken by individuals and businesses to protect themselves against cyber-attacks. It is the practice of minimising attacks in order to safeguard your devices (laptop, computer, and smartphones) and data from being stolen or tampered.

A malicious attack poses threat to sensitive data including but not limited to personal identification information, financial information, or any other data important to an individual or business. Phishing, Ransomware, Viruses are some of the most common ways cyber criminals employ to attack any targeted individual or organisation. 

Cyber criminals launch attacks on systems connected to internet like the hardware and software with an intention to gain unauthorized access, change, delete or steal data, demand money, or at times even damage and destroy the system. 

Implementing appropriate cyber security measures is no doubt a complex process, however, it is an important step and plays a huge role in protecting your data, devices, and systems from getting exploited. 

Common myths about cyber security 

Regardless of the increasing awareness of cyber-crimes and attacks, there still exists a number of organisations that fail to understand the seriousness associated with cyber security. One of the reasons which prevents businesses from investing in solutions that safeguard their data and systems are their myths regarding cyber security.

Below is a list of some of the common myths which we have busted to prevent you from believing in them.

1. Not all organisations are vulnerable to cyber-attacks 

Irrespective of the size or nature of business, all businesses must always be prepared and should have strong cyber security measures in place. Bigger organisations and famous people may be a common target of cyber criminals however, it does not necessarily mean small and medium sized organisations are immune and will not be attacked. The mistake of assuming that your data is not worthy enough to be hacked or your business is too small to get the attention of the attacker results in businesses neglecting security measures eventually making them targets that are too easy to hit.

2. Anti- virus software will always safeguard my data and systems 

Anti- virus software are without a doubt capable of ensuring the safety of an organisation’s data and system however, each software comes with a limited capacity to determine and stop cyber-attacks. And therefore, it is impossible to expect that an anti- virus software will safeguard you and your business from all types of cyber threats. Just as technology is evolving and getting better everyday so are the attackers, making it important for organisations to take the necessary steps to protect themselves against such risks.

3. Strong passwords are difficult to guess and cannot be cracked 

Complex passwords may be considered as a good start towards safeguarding your data and systems however, they definitely do not provide any guaranteed safety against cyber risks. No matter how long and complicated your password is, attackers nowadays are capable of identifying and cracking the strongest passwords, making it critical for businesses to get into a habit of enabling two-factor authentication and stop relying entirely on complex passwords to ensure safety.

4. IT department should be in charge of cyber security 

Each and every employee whether or not they are a part of the IT department is responsible for ensuring organisation’s systems and data are protected at all times. The IT departments are indeed tasked at managing and implementing effective cyber security measures however, this does not make them entirely responsible for the process. When the measures implemented by the IT department are supported by all others at the organisation the process of safeguarding turns way more simpler.

5. You can immediately detect when your system is attacked 

This may be true in some circumstances but is not always the case. You may or may not be able to instantly identify when your system is infected hence, it is not a clever idea to solely rely on intuition when it comes to security concerns. Lack of advanced security can leave the virus or malware on the system for a longer duration causing increased damage to your organisation.

The Importance of Cyber security

The ever-evolving technology has brought along innumerable benefits for each of us and the use and reliance on it continues to grow exponentially. Along with the comfort and convenience, technology is also accompanied by variety of risks such as the cyber security risk. 

Cyber-attacks are becoming increasingly common and therefore, cyber security has never been more important than now.

Businesses which depend entirely on traditional cyber security tools and solutions such as the antivirus software and firewalls to identify and protect themselves from cyber threats are more likely to fall prey to the tricks of cyber criminals that could result in an irreparable loss.  

Implementing strong cyber security measures does not make organisations immune to cyber-attacks but it can nevertheless help lower your risk as well as keep you prepared to address such threats. Organisations which neglect or do not prioritise the implementation of appropriate security measures make an easy target for attackers.

As it is said, Better late than never. Your decision to save some money today by not investing in advanced security may prove to be a costly affair in the future thus, regardless of the industry you operate in, and the size or nature of your business, it is always a wise decision to invest in cyber security. A proactive approach can help organisations defend cyber attacks in a better way, in the presence of a robust security framework you can easily protect your data and systems from threats that are avoidable.

Manage Your Cyber security with F1 Solutions

Falling victim to a cyber security attack can seriously damage your business. F1 Solutions as an experienced managed service provider works to protect Australian businesses from security breaches or events, taking swift action in the event of an attack. 

Whether working with small and medium size businesses, corporates or government departments and agencies, we have seen new threats develop and ensured our clients and their stakeholders are kept safe. 

Our competitive advantage is that we successfully design, develop, and implement a security strategy which matches with the unique needs of the organisation and the environment in which it operates.

Threats are evolving more quickly than ever; our deep level of subject matter expertise can help you implement appropriate measures and remove the risk factor.  

Contact us today to discuss your security assessment.

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