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Originally used in purely technical conversations, cyber security has evolved into an important boardroom priority. It's not just about safeguarding data; it's about ensuring continuity and protecting your business’s reputation. This shift reflects the growing realisation that cyber security is everyone's responsibility—from the IT department to the CEO and Board. So, what does it take to establish cyber resilience in a business?
Offensive Security, often considered the proactive side of cyber defence, involves identifying and mitigating potential threats before they can cause harm. One key component is threat hunting, which involves actively searching for signs of compromise within a business network.
Advancements in machine learning are revolutionising threat detection. It can analyse large volumes of data to identify anomalies and predict potential zero-day attacks (vulnerabilities that are exploited before they can be addressed). However, cybercriminals are also using the same technology to create more sophisticated phishing attacks and deep fakes.
To counter these advanced threats, businesses should:
· Implement threat hunting and continuous vulnerability scanning systems to stay ahead of cybercriminals.
· Regularly conduct penetration testing to identify and prioritise risks that are confirmed to be exploitable.
· Leverage an IT provider that proactively works on the evolution of your vulnerability management strategy.
Defensive security focuses on protecting business assets by building strong barriers against potential threats. This includes establishing robust incident response plans and ensuring that foundational controls, such as multi-factor authentication (MFA), are in place. Basics like MFA are essential in cyber security since 90% of breaches occur because of failure to implement essential security measures.
Key defensive strategies can include:
· Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) wherever possible to reduce the risk of end user compromise.
· Regular Security Training: Employees are often the weakest link; continuous education can significantly reduce human-related risks.
· Incident Response Planning: Regularly updated and tested plans ensure quick and effective response to security incidents.
Investing in a defensive approach, which involves multiple layers of security controls, is critical. This means not relying on a single solution but integrating various best-of-breed technologies to create a comprehensive security posture.
Effective cyber resilience requires a balance between offensive and defensive strategies. While offensive measures help identify and mitigate threats proactively, defensive strategies ensure robust protection and quick recovery in the event of an attack.
Statistics from Forrester Research and Verizon highlight that a substantial percentage of breaches involve human error. Therefore, it is crucial to foster a cyber-positive culture within the business.
Businesses should:
· Engage Employees: Involve them in cyber security initiatives and make them feel like allies in the fight against cyber threats.
· Tailor Training: Customise training programs based on the specific risks different employee groups face.
· Phishing Simulations: Conduct realistic simulations to test and improve employees' ability to recognise phishing attempts.
In today’s world, where cyber threats constantly evolve, staying informed and proactive is key. Cyber resilience is more than just preventing attacks – it's about preparing for when they occur and ensuring a swift recovery. By integrating offensive and defensive security measures, businesses can create a robust defence system that not only protects their assets but also supports their long-term success.
IT Partners can help you incorporate these strategies to enhance your business’s cyber resilience and confidently navigate the complex landscape of cybersecurity.
