Digital systems are used by both big and small businesses to streamline operations and boost productivity. The security of these systems is equally as crucial as their implementation. Over 43% of cyber security threats are directed at small-to-medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), so even smaller companies are at risk – not just large enterprises.
On average, it takes a company 197 days to detect a hack or data breach. Customer records, financial documents and intellectual property may already have been compromised by this point or may have been secured behind robust ransomware. Digital systems offer companies a wealth of benefits but they must be adequately secured at every level.
The easiest way to ensure that your IT systems are completely safe and up to date at all times is to work with a trusted and reliable cyber security partner. This includes a variety of security systems for endpoint devices, networks, websites and cloud servers. Implementing IT software that improves efficiency, collaboration and the customer experience is important, but if they are vulnerable to threats, your company could suffer greatly.
Understanding digital security
A cyber security breach can be extremely costly, not just in ransom or legal payouts but also in lost productivity, downtime and reputational damage. Companies that do not proactively invest in protecting their digital systems may eventually find themselves in hot water.
Understanding what cyber security entails and why it’s important is the first step in being proactive about it. Although there are several types of cyber attacks, these are the most common:
- Hacking of servers, websites and cloud environments.
- Phishing and social engineering.
- Malware and ransomware.
- SQL injection attacks.
- Distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks
If you’re aware of the various threats posed to your digital systems, then you can implement effective security software and protocols. Business leaders often want to make their digital ecosystems easy for employees and customers to use, but this can result in security gaps that hackers and other cyber criminals can exploit.
Companies have a responsibility
Customer data, personal information, business records, financial documents, intellectual property and prototypes that are stored on digital systems can all be compromised by cyber attacks. Companies have a responsibility to protect this information from a variety of potential threats because data breaches result in privacy breaches.
To ensure that consumer information is kept safe, many countries around the world, including South Africa, have enacted new laws and compliance regulations, like the Protection of Personal Information (POPI) Act. To avoid being held liable for any resulting damages and penalties brought on by data breaches, businesses need to be aware of these laws and secure their digital systems.
Improving the security of your digital systems
Working with an expert service provider that can offer cutting-edge software and solutions for your specific needs is the first step in securing your digital systems. This will ensure that your cyber security tools are up-to-date and effective. In addition to ensuring that the services are properly installed and implemented, the security service provider will be able to provide recommendations and give advice on a variety of services.
Setting up basic cyber security is simple, such as implementing a firewall on your network or an SSL certificate on your website. However, companies should not stop at the basics. More advanced tools such as secure access service edge (SASE) networks, endpoint protection, anti-malware software and DDoS protection should be taken into consideration as well.
Only verifiable employees will have access to IT networks and back-end digital systems with multifactor authentication (MFA) and zero-trust security policies. Automated alerting tools are also necessary for informing IT managers of any network threats or irregularities.
Conduct regular scans of digital systems and perform security tests to ensure that all software and tools are performing as expected. Simulated attacks can also be a great way to identify weaknesses and expose vulnerabilities. Your digital systems’ security will be significantly improved by putting these protocols and solutions into practice.
___
Discover the latest trends and tips that shape an ever-evolving digital world.
Mobimeme offers content marketing, SEO, analytics, social media management and expert direction in the digital sphere. Building and growing an online audience for your business is what we do best. Get in touch with us to find out more about our package offerings and how you can improve your website and following.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest for more articles, videos and content to keep you inspired.