While cyber security isn’t one-size-fits-all, there’s a few things every small business owner should consider to keep cyber threats away from your sensitive data.
These days, we can barely go a few weeks without some kind of major cyber security incident making news, which should tell us robust cybersecurity has become a non-negotiable. The stakes are now higher than ever and every business needs to stay ahead of the game to protect their assets and sensitive information.
October is the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) Cyber Security Awareness Month. And with the 2023 theme ‘Be cyber wise – don’t compromise’, it’s important small business owners understand the security basics and take proactive steps toward securing their cyber environment.
One of the key frameworks that can significantly strengthen your business security is ACSC Essential Eight. In fact, implementing these processes can prevent up to 85 percent of cyber threats, making them a formidable defence against potential breaches.
The Essential Eight – establishing a security baseline
The IT Agency aims to provide services and solutions complying with ACSC Essential Eight. While all cyber security professionals recognise there’s no fail-safe protection against cyber threats, the Essential Eight does establish a security baseline, making it more difficult for criminals to expose your network.
1. Enforce Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Multi-Factor Authentication, or MFA, is like having multiple locks on your door. It adds an extra layer of security by asking users to verify their identity through at least two authentication methods. This makes unauthorised access much more challenging.
2. Automate patching of operating systems
Updating your operating systems regularly is crucial. Not to mention, these updates often contain critical security patches that fill vulnerabilities. Patching makes it harder for cyber threats to find a way in.
3. Automate patching of applications
Similar to OS patching, keeping applications like Office and Chrome updated is vital. Hackers often use known vulnerabilities in outdated software versions, making this a crucial line of defence.
4. Restrict user admin rights
By limiting user admin rights for staff and reducing the number of people with administrative privileges, you minimise the risk of accidental or intentional system changes with the potential to compromise your cyber security.
5. Backup data regularly
Data backups are like a safety net for your business. In case of a cyber-attack, compliance requirements or data loss, up-to-date backups mean you are likely to be able to recover quickly and resume business operations without more major disruption.
6. Train staff in cyber awareness
Education is the foundation of cybersecurity. Training your people to recognise potential threats, and follow security best practices, is arming them with the knowledge to be the guardians of your digital space.
7. Filter spam emails
Email spam filtering helps prevent malicious emails from even reaching any business inbox. This reduces the risk of phishing attempts and malware infiltration.
8. Protect and monitor endpoints
Endpoint protection acts as your lookouts, guarding individual devices and monitoring them for any suspicious activities. It ensures each endpoint within your network remains secure and free from cyber threats.
But don’t stop at the Essential Eight – there’s always a few more things you can do to protect your business against cyber-attacks.
Security needs to be applied in rings
Security should never be one-size-fits-all. Instead, it should be applied in concentric rings with each layer providing its own level of protection with the combination forming a robust defence against many cyber threats.
Tackling a big threat – business email compromise
Did you know, one of the most prevalent and dangerous threats is business email compromise (BEC)? Cybercriminals often impersonate trusted entities and manipulate employees into doing things to compromise security. Protecting against BEC requires a multi-faceted approach, including email spam filtering and thorough cyber awareness training.
Microsoft’s Purview Compliance Manager
Microsoft offers yet another powerful tool to help protect your business from cyber threats – the Purview Compliance Manager. This tool allows you to measure your company’s security position against various standards, providing invaluable insights into your security readiness. The standards include:
- Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) Essential Eight Maturity Model
- NIST
- CIS and,
- Microsoft Secure Score.
The IT Agency – bridging the gap
We know business owners are often swamped with responsibilities, so checking security standards, generating reports and ensuring compliance may seem like daunting tasks.
That’s where we come in – bridging the gap between your busy schedule and the need for consistent cybersecurity evaluation. Our services ensure your business remains resilient against evolving cyber threats, giving you the peace of mind to focus on what you do best – growing your business.
Partnering with The IT Agency means having a dedicated team prioritising your cybersecurity so you and your employees can navigate the digital world with confidence and strength. Stay cyber wise, stay secure.
