Cybersecurity is one of the most pressing issues that businesses face today, as thousands of cybercriminals continue to find new ways to infiltrate corporate networks and disrupt operations. In fact, you can bet that whenever new technologies and applications are developed, cybercriminals aren't too far behind with a malicious scheme to exploit them.
This is why companies must have a comprehensive cyber defense strategy. Since cyberattacks can come from any direction, your cyber defense framework must be multilayered and flexible, addressing both external threats and internal vulnerabilities.
Here are the key components businesses should consider when creating a comprehensive cyber defense strategy:
Perimeter security
Perimeter security is the first line of defense against cyberattacks. This includes creating a secure perimeter around the corporate network with solutions such as firewalls, intrusion prevention systems, and email security software.
With firewalls, companies can detect and stop malicious activity by monitoring traffic and enforcing specific policies (e.g., only allowing traffic from certain IP addresses and blocking access to known malicious websites). Meanwhile, intrusion prevention systems can detect and block suspicious activity in real time by examining data packets flowing through the system. Suspicious activity could be anything from abnormal download/upload speeds to changes in packet size to multiple failed login attempts. Finally, email security software scans incoming messages and filters those that contain malicious content or attachments to protect users from phishing, malware, and other email-borne threats.
Network segmentation
Network segmentation is the process of dividing the network into separate isolated segments with their own access restrictions. Each segment is protected by security measures, such as firewalls and access controls, tailored to its specific requirements. By segmenting the network, organizations limit the potential lateral movement of attackers. If one segment is compromised, the impact is contained, preventing the attackers from accessing sensitive systems or data in other segments.
Identity and access management (IAM)
IAM refers to security measures to prevent unauthorized access into networks, devices, applications, and data. Some of the most important IAM measures every business should have include multifactor authentication, strong password policies, and role-specific access permissions. Strong passwords and multifactor authentication make it more difficult for cybercriminals to infiltrate user accounts, while access permissions ensure that users can only access the resources they need to perform their job duties.
Endpoint protection
Endpoints or computing devices are a major target for cybercriminals because they often contain confidential company data and applications. To protect endpoints from malicious activity, companies should deploy anti-malware software, Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR) tools with 24/7 Security Operations Center (SOC) monitoring, use mobile device management systems, and install the latest security patches. These endpoint protection measures are essential for preventing hackers and malware from gaining a foothold in the network.
Data encryption and backup
Data encryption is a vital measure to protect sensitive information stored laptops, mobile devices, or other storage media. Encryption helps keep any stored data safe in case of loss or theft as the data won’t be readable without the proper decryption key. Encryption should be implemented for data both in transit (such as through secure communication protocols like SSL) and at rest (such as encrypting data stored on laptops, PCs, portable storage devices such as thumb drives, servers, or cloud databases).
Additionally, you should back up your data so that you have a safety net in the event of a disaster. Make sure to follow best practices when creating and managing backups, such as using strong encryption protocols, storing multiple copies in separate locations, and regularly testing backups to ensure they are up to date.
Employee education and awareness
Employees are often overlooked when it comes to cybersecurity, but they actually make the difference between a secure network and one that is vulnerable to attack. An employee who recklessly clicks on a malicious link or falls for online scams can quickly become the weak link in your security chain.
As such, it's important to educate employees on security best practices. Security training programs should cover topics such as recognizing phishing emails, avoiding suspicious website links, practicing good password hygiene, adopting data management best practices, and reporting security incidents promptly. By fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness, businesses can empower employees to become the first line of defense against online scams and data breaches caused by human error.
Establishing a strong cyber defense strategy can be a daunting and complex undertaking for any organization, but Fidelis can help you every step of the way. From setting up perimeter security to training your employees, we have the services and solutions to protect your business. Call us today to fortify your defenses.
