Given the heightened risk of cyber-attacks during Black Friday, online retailers must be proactive in securing their platforms. Fujitsu’s cyber security strategist, Paul McEvatt, offers essential advice to fortify your defences and protect against potential threats.
Retailers face a surge in phishing attacks, DDoS incidents, and other cyber threats as online shopping spikes during Black Friday. Implementing robust security measures is not just an option, but a necessity to safeguard your business and customer data.
One of the critical aspects of cyber security is acknowledging that it’s fundamentally a ‘people’ issue. Paul McEvatt stresses that retailers should train their employees to be vigilant, especially when phishing attacks are known to increase by up to 336% around Black Friday. McEvatt asserts, “Both customers and employees are more at risk to email, text, and social media scams than ever before.” This highlights the need for comprehensive staff education on identifying and mitigating such threats.
Retailers must employ real-time security tools to detect and avert potential cyber-attacks. McEvatt notes, “Cyber criminals are bold and do not care how much damage they cause to get what they want.” With attackers using increasingly sophisticated methods, unusual behaviour can often go unnoticed. Thus, constant vigilance and investment in advanced security technologies are crucial.
As consumers flock to secure the best deals, the risk of a DDoS attack becomes palpable. Retailers must ensure their websites are fortified against traffic surges. This involves not only having the right technology but also optimizing its deployment to handle unexpected loads effectively.
The responsibility of cyber security does not lie solely with IT departments. McEvatt believes that a culture of security awareness should permeate the entire organization. Achieving this requires continuous education and practical training to empower employees at all levels.
Understanding the cyber landscape and anticipating possible risks enables retailers to stay ahead of malicious actors. Proactive measures and regular updates to security protocols are essential in maintaining robust defences.
Building a robust cyber defence strategy involves leveraging the expertise of dedicated security professionals. These partnerships can offer tailored solutions and continuous support, ensuring that retailers are well-prepared for any cyber security challenges during high-risk periods like Black Friday.
A resilient cyber security framework can safeguard business operations even amidst potential threats. This requires not only the right tools but also a committed approach to maintaining and enhancing security protocols regularly.
In the face of escalating cyber threats during Black Friday, adopting a multi-faceted cyber security strategy is non-negotiable. Through employee education, real-time security measures, proactive threat detection, and expert collaboration, retailers can significantly mitigate risks.
Fujitsu’s comprehensive cyber security advice underscores the importance of vigilance and proactive measures. By staying ahead of cyber criminals and ensuring robust defences, retailers can protect their business and customers effectively during high-traffic shopping events.