The IT threat landscape is constantly evolving with new security risks occurring every single day. While these risks change rapidly they are also becoming more advanced meaning businesses need to stay on top of current trends to minimize risk to their organization.
Dealing with security incidents means IT staff need very specific skills to keep on top of infrastructure and threats to business security.
The following are 5 areas that require enhanced security measures to ensure good cyber hygiene.
NETWORK SECURITY:
*Cybersecurity needs to address both external and internal threats to maintain business continuity. Good network security is key to preventing data loss and cybersecurity professionals should have the skills to enact policies and controls within and around the network.
CLOUD SECURITY:
*Businesses need to possess or hire the necessary skill sets to secure data and applications while utilizing the cloud in addition to securing their own on-premise infrastructure. The responsibility for ensuring the security and applications in the cloud rests with the organization and not with the cloud provider.
RISK MANAGEMENT:
*Companies should have in place risk management policies and procedures in the case of a cybersecurity breach. Risk management helps prevent or decrease uncertainty within an organization and helps it improve its overall efficiency.
PATCH MANAGEMENT:
*A program of regular software and operating system updates is key to ensuring that malicious actors are unable to attack an organization via disclosed vulnerabilities. Patch management combined with a regularly updated anti-virus program, external firewall with unified threat protection, all lead to layered security and maintenance of best practices.
BIG DATA ANALYSIS:
*Analyzing large amounts of data is a growing essential skill in cybersecurity. Data analysis is very useful when viewing advanced persistent threats.
As more regulations begin to be adopted governing cyber activity such as the European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) companies need to put additional planning and action into improving their internal and external security profile. Whether a company chooses in-house support, outside IT providers, or MSSPs (Managed Security Service Providers) the time is now to implement and fine tune a company’s cybersecurity profile.