Potential Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities in Your Company
Many business leaders believe that cybersecurity vulnerabilities are a problem that can be solved by hiring the right people and spending enough money. The threat of a cyber-attack to an organization is comprehensive and often overlooked. The fight against cyber-attacks involves the entire organization, not just security specialists.
There will always be another malware, another algorithm to crack, another breach. No amount of money can fully secure information systems that are widely used by millions of people. The right people and cash will not solve the cybersecurity problem. This can only be accomplished by dedicating resources, time, and personnel to build a solid security foundation at every level of your company.
To reduce the chances of suffering a cyberattack, look for these warning signs within your organization.
Unnoticed Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities of Aging Systems
Businesses that don’t keep software and hardware up to date are putting themselves at risk. For example, a business may refuse to shut down a server for proper patching or choose to keep working on old hardware and software to save budget. These unreported decisions lead to a false sense of security and increase the likelihood and severity of an incident. A series of small compromises equal one big disaster.
To ensure business continuity at all times, a business must conduct ongoing maintenance and replacement of hardware and software. These activities help to keep the business avoid security breaches. It’s also important to discuss systemic risk as part of your organization’s security governance.
Too Extensive Risk Mitigation
It’s a universal truth that as an organization grows it becomes more and more difficult to keep your information safe from attacks. It doesn’t matter how much money you spend or how advanced your firewall is, there are always going to be some holes in your cyberdefense.
It’s impossible to protect yourself fully against cyberattacks. No matter how much money you spend, you won’t be able to stop every risky activity. Attempting to do so will likely hurt your organization’s productivity.
Accountability Fears
To account for the human element, accountability should include a clear understanding of what risks are acceptable to key stakeholders. If accountability is used to punish people for mistakes, no one will take risks. In brief, if you engage in a risky activity, the results should be defensible to the people who helped you make that decision. If a mistake is made, no one should be fired.
Transparency and the “Fear of Bad News”
Companies today are becoming more adept at positioning the board and executive management on security topics. Some executives are reluctant to discuss security gaps and opportunities for improvement, preferring to focus on the positive progress that has been made in security.
Secrecy can actually be counterproductive when it comes to security. There are many more open and transparent models for organizations that make security a priority. The best way to approach security is with a positive attitude.
Conclusion for Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities and You
With that said, this ends our helpful selection of tips. If you want more great information for your future defense against malicious forces, feel free to explore our reservoir of information on Arruda Group’s website.
