The commencement of Cyber Security Month marks an important opportunity to elevate cyber security awareness in the UK and safeguard our digital landscape.
Lawrence Jones, MBE, CEO of two Manchester-based technology firms, has put forward six critical cyber security tips to help businesses enhance their security posture. “Data has been termed ‘the new oil’, such is its extraordinary value in the modern world,” Jones stated. Yet, businesses frequently overlook the importance of data security, which can lead to catastrophic losses, especially under the stringent regulations introduced by GDPR. Highlighting recent breaches at major companies such as British Airways and Superdrug, Jones underscored the risks and emphasised the necessity of increasing awareness through initiatives like Cyber Security Month.
One straightforward, yet often neglected, measure is the improvement of passwords. Despite numerous warnings, passwords like ‘123456’ and ‘password’ remain remarkably common. Passwords should be long and complex, incorporating capitals, numbers, and symbols. Two-factor authentication can add an additional layer of security, making it harder for unauthorised users to gain access.
Awareness and education are also paramount. Employees must be familiar with various cyber threats, such as phishing and ransomware. Without understanding the nature of these threats, it is impossible to defend against them effectively.
Regular software updates are crucial as well. These updates often include patches for security vulnerabilities. Many users are prone to postponing updates by clicking ‘later’. However, it is essential to ensure that all devices and systems are kept up-to-date. Automating updates can facilitate this process and ensure no critical patches are missed.
Human error remains a significant factor in data breaches. Therefore, educating staff on best practices and the importance of data security is vital. Bringing teams together to discuss these risks and strategies for avoidance can greatly reduce instances of human error. The ICO reports that human error accounted for 80% of data security incidents in late 2017. This statistic underscores the importance of continuous education and vigilance.
Engaging ethical hackers to identify weaknesses can be highly beneficial. By using the same tactics as cyber criminals, ethical hackers can expose security gaps and help organisations reinforce their defences before any malicious attacks occur.
Lastly, seeking assistance from cyber security experts can provide businesses with comprehensive strategies to bolster their defences. Experts can offer insights and solutions tailored to the specific needs of the company, ensuring a robust security framework is in place.
In conclusion, Cyber Security Month serves as a timely reminder of the importance of safeguarding our digital information. By implementing these six tips, businesses can significantly enhance their cyber security and protect valuable data from potential threats.