Disrupted operations, data breaches and fraud are just a few of the ways hackers can exploit the information gained in a cyberattack. As well as potentially bankrupting financial loss, successful attacks can cost you customer trust and your reputation, two things you can’t afford to lose in our ever-competitive landscape.
Consistently reinforcing your core security measures will make it significantly harder for attackers to breach your business, and help you stay ahead of constantly evolving cybercrime trends. Discover which areas should be your focus to successfully strengthen your company’s digital safety, now and for the future.
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Use Authentication Barriers
Passwords are no longer enough to block cybercriminals. AI-powered tools allow hackers to run through guesses at lightning speeds and get around weak passwords in seconds. Most of us reuse passwords too, even though we shouldn’t, so one cracked password could mean instant access to multiple accounts.
Eliminate predictability and safeguard against theft by implementing a password manager. Choosing a model with a built-in password generator means staff can create complex passwords in seconds and store them safely with no worries about memorization. To further tighten security, require passphrases of at least 16 characters and restrict employees from using personal information in their credentials.
Additional authentication barriers help block unauthorized access in the event a password is compromised. Two-factor authentication security usually involves a random code being sent to an employee’s phone via a secure app, so a cybercriminal would need this device as well as the password to gain access. It could also include biometric cans. Implementing multi-factor authentication across your business network is relatively simple and can have a huge impact.
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Secure Networds and Systems
You should also take steps to prevent hackers getting close to accounts by using data control tools to secure your networks and systems. For example, operating on a virtual private network (VPN) encrypts your data so that even if hackers do manage to download it, it’s scrambled. Ensure employees are set up to use the VPN when working remotely and stress that they should never use public Wi-Fi networks, especially if they handle sensitive data in their role.
Firewalls and intrusion detection systems are also essential. These act as gatekeepers, filtering incoming and outgoing traffic to prevent unauthorized access. Intrusion detection tools monitor for suspicious activity in real-time, alerting you when someone attempts to breach your defenses so you can catch and contain threats before they escalate.
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Provide Frequent Training
Given how advanced digital security is most cybercriminals exploit the risk of human error as their means of making an attack – and this is how most data breaches start. Phishing emails with malicious links are sent en masse to employees and are increasingly convincing. As US data breaches cost over nine million dollars on average, minimizing the chance of error is essential.
Regular cybersecurity awareness training will turn your workforce into a defensive asset rather than a liability. Teach employees to spot social engineering tactics, scrutinize unexpected email attachments and verify requests for sensitive information before taking action. You should also set up a clear system for reporting suspected attacks. Running phishing simulations is a great way to assess their vigilance and reinforce good security habits.
