It’s fantastic that the latest innovative technology allows us to be more connected and businesses to serve clients and customers more efficiently. Or is it? Innovation at breakneck speed often leads to security problems.
IDC expects primary business spending on security to increase by 12% this year. That’s primary and estimated at over $200 billion. It doesn’t include the cost of incidents.
An upgrade to the technology you’re using can make it a cybercrime target. Simple changes to standard technology can open the door for cybercriminals. How can you keep your business network secure?
Don’t assume that shiny, exciting technology is super secure already. What’s great for your business may be a beacon for cybercriminals. They will be looking for holes in your security.
Apply patches and update your systems and apps often and consistently. Don’t assume your small business won’t be a target. It already is.
Back up all your business processes, including data, configurations, network settings, and monitoring tools. Ensure you haven’t forgotten a laptop squirreled away or that server in the back room. Keep different types of backups and isolate them.
Consider a defense-in-depth or DiD approach to your security. In addition to suitable backup protocols and system updates, a DiD approach includes firewalls, intrusion prevention or detection systems (IPS/IDS), endpoint detection and response (EDS), network segmentation, and the principle of least privilege. It may be redundant, but it makes it harder for cybercriminals to gain access.
Author: Kris Keppeler is a writer who finds technology fascinating and loves humor. She writes on Medium.com, and for Women of Wisdom. An award-winning podcast producer who enjoys telling funny stories. Follow her on X (formerly Twitter) @KrisNarrates or on LinkedIn.