Why Cybersecurity Is A Strategy Not A Checkbox
Cybersecurity is not a "set it and forget it" process because the threat landscape is constantly evolving, and new vulnerabilities and attack methods are discovered on a regular basis. Cybersecurity requires ongoing attention and effort that includes:
New Threats and Vulnerabilities
Cybercriminals are constantly developing new and more sophisticated attack methods, and new vulnerabilities are discovered in software and hardware on a regular basis. To stay protected, organizations need to continually update their security controls and stay informed about emerging threats.
Changes in Technology
As technology changes, so do the security risks. The rise of cloud computing, mobile devices, and the Internet of Things (IoT) has created new attack surfaces that need to be secured. Organizations need to adapt their security strategies to address these changes and ensure that all devices and applications are properly secured.
Continuous Monitoring and Improvement
Cybersecurity is a process, not a one-time event. To ensure that security controls are working as intended and to identify new threats and vulnerabilities, organizations need to continuously monitor their systems and processes and make adjustments as necessary.
Human Factors
Cybersecurity is not just a technical problem; it also involves human factors such as user awareness and behavior. Phishing attacks, social engineering, and insider threats can all bypass technical controls, and organizations need to invest in training and awareness programs to mitigate these risks.
Compliance and Regulatory Requirements
Many industries are subject to compliance and regulatory requirements that mandate certain security practices and controls. These requirements are constantly changing, and organizations need to stay up-to-date to ensure they are in compliance.
What Makes Up A Cybersecurity Strategy?
Perimeter Security
This layer includes security controls such as firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDPS), and network segmentation to protect the outer boundary of a network or system. These controls can help to block unauthorized access, detect and block malicious traffic, and limit the impact of a potential breach.
Access Control
This layer includes security controls such as user authentication, authorization, and identity and access management (IAM) systems to manage user access to systems and data. These controls can help to ensure that only authorized users have access to sensitive data and systems, and that they have the appropriate level of access.
Security Monitoring
This layer includes security controls such as security information and event management (SIEM) systems, log management, and threat intelligence to monitor for potential threats and security incidents. These controls can help to detect and respond to security incidents in a timely manner, and to continuously improve the overall security posture of the organization.
Endpoint Security
This layer includes security controls such as antivirus software, endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools, and mobile device management (MDM) systems to protect individual devices such as laptops, desktops, and mobile devices. These controls can help to detect and remove malware, prevent unauthorized access, and enforce security policies on devices.
Data Protection
This layer includes security controls such as encryption, data loss prevention (DLP), and backup and recovery systems to protect data from unauthorized access, theft, or loss. These controls can help to ensure that sensitive data is protected both at rest and in transit, and that it can be recovered in the event of a data breach or system failure.
Maintenance Processes
This layer includes the ongoing processes and documentation to maintain the cybersecurity strategy. It is important to work with an IT team that has the experience and systems needed to not only implement these solutions but more importantly maintain them. Users and devices will come and go, new security threats will come on the scene and the strategy will need to be adjusted as time goes on.
Don’t Be A Statistic. Protect Yourself From A Breach.
of breaches are caused by human error
of security breaches target small businesses
of small firms go out of business within 6 months of data breach
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Read MoreManaging IT for small and medium sized businesses in St. Louis since 1985.
