What is cyber security?

In this blog we are taking it back to basics and exploring what exactly cyber security is. Otherwise known as information technology security or information security – it is the practice, process, and technology that is used to protect an organisation’s electronic systems, networks, computers, mobile devices and data from hackers who are constantly looking for ways to conduct malicious attacks, cause damage and/or gain unauthorised access to confidential business information.

• Network security – entails protecting a business network from cyber criminals who try to infiltrate through various forms of malware;

• Application security – entails safeguarding applications, software and devices from external threats that could compromise a business;

• Information security – entails protecting the privacy and integrity of data – in storage and transit;

• Operational security – entails the decisions and processes required for handling and safeguarding data assets, such as user permissions when accessing networks and procedures for data transfer;

• Disaster recovery and business continuity – entails how a business responds to a cyber attack and the recovery policies in place for that business to restore operations while trying to function without the affected resources; and

• End-user education – entails educating end users on adhering to stringent security practices to curb cyber attacks and effectively responding to suspicious activity to stop cyber threats from advancing.

With that being said, let’s explore some of the common ways that cybercriminals use to infiltrate a business.

Common cyber threats that businesses face

With technology advancing at such an incredible rate, cyber attacks have become even more prevalent as hackers find more opportunities to exploit weaknesses in systems and networks – and advance their devious intentions in the process.

Some of the most common cyber threats facing businesses in 2022 include:

• Malware – this is, in essence, malicious software that cyber criminals use to disrupt or damage a system or network, often through unsolicited email attachments or authentic-looking platforms. Malware comes in various forms that include viruses, trojans, spyware, ransomware, adware, and botnets.
• SQL injection – this is a type of cyber attack that uses structured language query (SQL) to infiltrate a system or network and exploit weaknesses to gain access to sensitive business information.
• Phishing – this is a scam that hackers use to target victims with authentic-looking emails that require the user to divulge sensitive information.
• Man-in-the-middle attack – this is where hackers intercept communication between two users in order to steal confidential information, usually through unsecured networks.
  Denial-of-service attack – this is where hackers prevent a system or network from fulfilling basic functions, thereby denying the user access and rendering it unusable – stopping the business from operating.
• Denial-of-service attack – this is where hackers prevent a system or network from fulfilling basic functions, thereby denying the user access and rendering it unusable – stopping the business from operating.
  

Vital technologies and best practices to stop cyber attacks

Now that you are aware of the most common cyber attacks that hackers use let’s go through some vital technologies and best practices that businesses can use to implement stringent cyber security protocols and reduce weaknesses while safeguarding critical information systems.

End-user protection – often referred to as endpoint security – is crucial for cyber security in any business as the end-users are often the ones who come into contact with cyber threats through their computers or devices. With stringent end-user protection implemented, confidential data is protected against loss or theft, as well as in transit. A key component of end-user protection is effectively educating end-users about identifying new cyber threats and using creative ways to combat them.

Identity and access management (IAM) has proven to be an effective solution to reduce cyber attacks as the access privileges for users are explicitly defined based on their roles, as well as the conditions under which such privileges are denied or granted. IAM methodologies include single sign-on for users, multi-factor authentication, administrative privileges for specific users, and user lifecycle management. IAM tools are particularly helpful in giving businesses greater insight into potential cyber-attacks and suspicious activity on end-user devices – thus improving investigation and response times to isolate breaches and curb cyber attacks.

Security information and event management (SIEM) processes help businesses analyse and aggregate information from security events, and this will automatically pick up suspicious activity, which will then trigger a remedial or preventative response. SIEM protocols include artificial intelligence and user behaviour analytics and can automatically prioritise a business’ cyber threat response in alignment with its risk management objectives.

Businesses that are serious about tackling cyber attacks head-on will also ensure that:

• their software and operating systems are updated constantly;
• they have the latest anti-virus protection activated;
• their staff use strong passwords;
• their staff don’t open email attachments from unfamiliar sources;
• their staff don’t click on links that take them to unfamiliar platforms; and
• all devices are connected using secure WiFi networks.

In essence, businesses that have a comprehensive data security platform will provide the ultimate protection for their networks and systems spanning multiple platforms and environments. The very best cyber security companies offer automated and real-time visibility into weaknesses of systems and networks and offer an effective response to such weaknesses in order to prevent data breaches – all while remaining compliant with government and industry data privacy regulations.

Final thoughts

With cyber criminals enjoying a digital feast in such technologically advanced times, it remains ever more crucial to protect your business from opportunistic actors who look to take advantage of your systems and networks with malicious intent.

At tmc3, we understand that cyber security, data protection and compliance challenges are different for every organisation in every industry. Our extensive expertise and suite of innovative products will ensure that your computers, networks and devices have the most stringent protection using cutting-edge technology and techniques. Make sure to contact us here and get the cyber security protection that you and your business deserve.