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In today’s business landscape, browsers often serve as the primary portals to access cloud services, carry out operations, collaborate on documents, and engage with customers. However, as the variety of browsers continues to grow and become embedded in business environments, it's crucial to recognise the risks that may come with this diversity.
At first glance, having multiple browsers in a business environment might seem harmless or even beneficial, given the different features and user preferences each browser offers. However, from a cyber security standpoint, this diversity can introduce significant challenges:
· Update management: Browsers are frequently updated to patch security vulnerabilities. However, in a multi-browser environment, ensuring that every browser across all devices is up-to-date can be a logistical nightmare. Missed updates on even a single browser can provide an entry point for cybercriminals.
· Diverse extensions and plugins: Browsers often support a range of extensions and plugins, which can also introduce risks. Malicious or poorly maintained extensions can act as backdoors, allowing unauthorised access to your data. In a multi-browser environment, monitoring and controlling these extensions becomes more difficult.
· Attack surface: Every additional browser in your environment increases the attack surface or the number of potential entry points for unauthorised users. More browsers mean more opportunities for cybercriminals to discover and exploit vulnerabilities.
· Standardise browsers across the business: Limit the number of browsers in use wherever possible. Standardising on one or two browsers can simplify security management, ensure consistent updates, and reduce the complexity of monitoring and responding to threats.
· Browser vulnerability monitoring: Regular browser monitoring and alerting helps to ensure that any vulnerabilities are promptly addressed; at IT Partners we refer to this service as Continuous Vulnerability Scanning.
· Educate your employees: Effectively managing and securing data starts with educating employees about the risks of unsafe browser usage. Regular training on safe browsing habits, such as closing and reopening browsers periodically each week, is crucial for minimising exposure to potential threats.
To keep your business secure, it's crucial to implement a strategic approach that addresses both technology and user behaviour. By standardising browser usage, consistently monitoring and updating systems, and educating employees on cyber security best practices, you can significantly reduce risks and strengthen your overall security posture.
