The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) are some of the organizations that provide crucial information on how to stay protected from cyber theats.
They have plenty of resources, including in-depth documents and infographics, which we’ll list below and that will surely help you and your business.
2. NIST Cybersecurity Framework 2.0
3. Cyber Guidance for Small Businesses
We’ve gone through some of these documents and compiled the highlights we think could benefit your business.
Understanding cybersecurity risks is essential for safeguarding your business's mission. Disruptions caused by cyber threats can severely impact operations, making it crucial to recognize and address these risks effectively. Additionally, businesses must be well-versed in their legal, regulatory, and contractual cybersecurity obligations to ensure compliance and avoid potential penalties.
Identifying and Protecting Critical Assets
Start by identifying your most critical business assets. These can include data, hardware, software, systems, facilities, services, and personnel. Once identified, prioritize the inventory and classification of your business data. Determine the cybersecurity and privacy risks associated with each asset to tailor your protection strategies accordingly.
Implementing Strong Security Measures
1. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Require employees to enable MFA on all accounts that support it, with a preference for phishing-resistant options. MFA adds an additional layer of security by requiring more than one form of verification.
2. Strong Passwords and Management: Enforce the use of strong, unique passwords across all accounts. To manage passwords securely, consider using a password manager, which can also help in generating and storing complex passwords.
3. Antivirus Software: Ensure that up-to-date antivirus software is installed on all devices. Regularly updating and maintaining this software is crucial for defending against new threats.
4. Software Updates and Patches: Keep all software updated by applying new versions and patches as they become available. This practice helps in closing security vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers.
5. Phishing Protection: Educate yourself and your employees on recognizing and avoiding phishing attempts. Regular training on basic cybersecurity hygiene is essential for building a vigilant workforce.
Assessing and Securing Assets
Regularly assess both IT and physical assets for potential vulnerabilities. It’s vital to understand what information employees should have access to and restrict sensitive information to only those who need it for their roles. Engaging in ongoing discussions about cybersecurity with direct reports and the entire organization can foster a culture of security awareness.
Eliminating On-Premises Services
A significant step towards enhancing security is to consider moving away from on-premises services, such as mail and file storage hosted within your office space. These services, often referred to as “on-prem” services, can pose additional risks. Transitioning to cloud-based solutions can improve security and reduce the burden of managing these services internally.
Some Questions to Consider
1. How often are we reviewing our cybersecurity strategy?
2. What are our legal and regulatory obligations regarding data security?
3. What are the potential impacts of a security breach?
4. How will we train our employees on cybersecurity best practices?
5. What security technologies and tools should we invest in?
6. What external resources or partners can help enhance our cybersecurity?
7. How will we evaluate the effectiveness of our cybersecurity measures?
8. What is our budget for cybersecurity measures?
