Understanding cyber security is critical for any business aiming to protect its data, assets, and reputation. As of January 2024, 21% of UK organizations reported experiencing a data breach accident once a month.
But while threats continue to grow, many businesses and individuals are overwhelmed with the complexity of cyber security. What exactly is it, why does it matter, and what measures do you need to put in place to stay protected?
Read on to learn all you need to know about staying safe from cyber attacks.
What is cyber security?
Cyber security refers to the practice of protecting physical devices, software systems, and networks from digital attacks. Security measures aim to stop hackers from accessing, changing, or destroying sensitive information, extorting money from users, or interrupting business operations.
Common cyber threats include:
- Malware: Malicious software like viruses, ransomware, spyware etc. that infects and harms computer systems.
- Spam and phishing: Fraudulent attempts to obtain sensitive information by disguising as a trustworthy entity.
- Denial of service (DoS) attacks: Flooding a system with traffic to make it impossible for the target to handle legitimate requests.
- Internet of Things (IoT) attacks: Attacks on internet-based devices or networks to take control of the device or steal information.
Cyber security measures can include training employees on best practices, utilising cyber security software and tools, or outsourcing IT to a third party.
Why is cyber security important?
As businesses increasingly adopt new technologies and operate remotely, risks of cyber attack also grow. Ransomware attacks, for example, rose an astonishing 81% from 2023 to 2024.
Cyber security measures are therefore becoming non-negotiable in order to protect sensitive information and avoid the disastrous consequences of attacks, from financial losses to reputational damage.
Finally, with cyber attacks quickly disrupting operations, effective cyber security measures help ensure that your business can continue to operate smoothly even in the face of an attack.
4 types of cyber security every business should implement
Data Security
Protecting data from unauthorised access is a top concern for security professionals in 2024. With 74% of account takeovers originating with email phishing attacks, strong password policies and multi-factor authentication (MFA) are fundamental to ensure data confidentiality.
Regular data backups are also crucial to be able to restore important information in the event of a cyber attack or data breach. Without backups, data loss can be catastrophic, potentially breaching customer confidentiality and attracting potential lawsuits. Implementing a backup and recovery strategy ensures that data can be quickly and reliably restored.
Another key measure to ensure sensitive data remains confidential is encryption. Encryption tools stop hackers being able to read data, even when accessed or intercepted.
Network Security
Network security is vital for protecting data as it travels across or is stored within networks. Unsecured networks can be easily targeted by attackers to intercept or tamper with data.
Key measures for maintaining network security include:
- Using firewalls to monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic
- Setting up VPNs to secure remote connections
- Ensuring Wi-Fi networks are encrypted and password-protected
Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDPS) can help monitor network traffic to detect and prevent suspicious activities that could indicate a cyber attack.
Endpoint Security
Deploying an endpoint protection solution is essential for safeguarding these devices. EPP solutions typically include:
- Anti-virus software
- Anti-malware
- Ransomware protection
- Mobile device management (MDM)
- Device encryption
- Web filtering
Anti-virus and anti-malware software are fundamental components of endpoint security. They are essential for detecting and removing malicious software that can compromise systems and data. Furthermore, it is crucial to regularly update these programs with the latest threat definitions to protect systems from new and emerging malware.
Cloud security
94% of companies use Cloud software in their business operations. Therefore, implementing Cloud security is more important than ever to protect applications and services from cyber threats and unauthorised access.
Protect data through encryption, access controls, and identity management systems to ensure only authorised individuals can access sensitive information.
Start protecting against cyber threats today
Implementing cyber security solutions can help you gain peace of mind over the rising risks of cyber threats. Start by assessing your current security posture, identify gaps, and prioritise setting up relevant measures to protect your data, network, and devices.
If you want additional help in ensuring your business remains secure, managed IT services can help lift the heavy burden of security from your internal teams. Trusted provider Absolute Technology offers a range of cyber security solutions and can help you get started. Call Absolute Technology on 0345 225 2047 (local rate) to speak to an expert today.