As technology continues to advance, so does the need for heightened awareness. As well as proactive measures to safeguard sensitive information. Cyber Security can seem like an insurmountable task for everyday people. But it’s not only a job for the IT team. Everyone can play a part in keeping their organisation’s data safe. Not to mention their own data.
October is Cyber Security Awareness Month. It serves as a timely reminder that there are many ways to safeguard data. Following the basics can make a big difference in how secure your network remains.
What Is Cyber Security Awareness Month?
Cyber Security Awareness Month (CAM) is an annual initiative held every October. It promotes cyber security awareness and education. It aims to empower individuals and organisations by giving them knowledge and resources. It helps people strengthen their defences against cyber threats. CAM started as an initiative in the USA, ‘National Cyber Security Awareness Month’. Then, it quickly spread around the globe. The goal is to raise awareness about cyber risks and best practices.
This Year’s Theme
This is CAM’s 20th year. To celebrate, the theme revolves around looking at how far cyber security has come. As well as how far it has to go. This year, CAM focuses on four key best practices of cyber security.
These are:
- Enabling multi-factor authentication
- Using strong passwords and a password manager
- Updating software
- Recognising and reporting phishing
Let’s take a closer look at these four best practices of ‘good cyber hygiene’.
Essential Cyber Hygiene: 4 Keys to a Strong Defence
Central to Cyber Security Awareness Month is the promotion of essential cyber ‘hygiene’ practices. We follow good hygiene to maintain physical health. For example, we brush our teeth every day. Cyber security also requires ongoing good hygiene practices to secure the online environment. These practices form the foundation of a strong cyber security defence. They help both individuals and organisations.
1. Enabling Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Implementing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) adds a vital layer of security to all logins. In most cases, a hacker can’t breach an account protected by MFA. This is the case even if the cyber crook has the password. According to Microsoft, MFA can block 99.9% of attempted account compromise attacks. With that strong track record, everyone really should be using it. And using it on every login they have.
2. Strong Passwords & a Password Manager
Passwords remain a critical aspect of securing online accounts. Despite the increased use of biometrics, passwords still rule. Encourage your team members to use strong, unique passwords for each account. Avoid easily guessable information like birthdays or names. Companies can help by setting strong password enforcement rules. This requires a strong password before it’s accepted in a system. For example, you may set up a policy that requires a password to have:
- At least 12 characters
- At least 1 upper case letter
- At least 1 lower case letter
- At least 1 number
- At least 1 symbol
3. Updating Software
Outdated software creates vulnerabilities that cyber criminals can exploit. Regularly update operating systems, applications, and firmware. This ensures the latest security patches are in place. Automating updates is a good way to ensure they’re done promptly. Companies can use endpoint device managers to handle updates across all employee devices.
4. Recognising and Reporting Phishing
Phishing attacks are a common vector for cyber threats. Train your team to identify phishing emails, suspicious links, and unsolicited attachments. Encourage them to verify the sender’s email address. As well as never provide sensitive information unless certain of the recipient’s authenticity. It’s also important to educate employees about phishing beyond email. Phishing via text messages has been increasing significantly. Some criminals phish via direct messages on social media platforms.
Another important aspect of phishing awareness is to report phishing. If it’s reported, then other employees know to avoid that phishing trap. The organisation’s IT team also needs to know so they can take action to mitigate the threat. Be sure to let employees know how they can report a phishing email when they suspect one.
We Can Help You Put the Best Cyber Hygiene Practices in Place
CAM offers a valuable opportunity to refocus on the significance of cyber security. As well as prioritising essential cyber hygiene practices. Building a culture of cyber security awareness within your team is important. It can be the difference between vulnerability and resilience.
Need some help ensuring a more secure and resilient future for your business? Give ITM Tech’s team of experts a call today on 045 409984 to schedule a chat, or reach us here on our website.
