A strong cybersecurity strategy is vital for businesses to protect digital assets and systems from evolving threats. Despite this understanding, some organisations often delay implementing critical measures or overlook key areas of vulnerability. Expanding security perimeters and relentless cyberattacks demand a proactive approach to stay secure.
One of the foundational steps in fortifying defences is gaining visibility into the current security tools in use. Without understanding the existing security stack and how its components interact, optimisation is impossible. Equally essential is adopting comprehensive data loss prevention systems to protect sensitive information within and outside the organisation’s network.
Controlling user access effectively is another critical practice. Applying the principle of least privilege ensures users only have access necessary for their roles, reducing risks of data breaches or internal attacks. Securing backdoors is also essential to prevent attackers from exploiting these often-overlooked vulnerabilities. Similarly, organisations must address gaps in identity security, moving beyond basic tools to advanced solutions that mitigate blind spots.
Incident response plans should not just exist—they must be rigorously tested. Regular validation of backups, credentials, and failover processes ensures readiness in the face of threats. Additionally, fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness through employee training helps prevent phishing attacks and other user-targeted threats.
Businesses must also recognise the importance of domain risk management to protect customer trust and data. Implementing secure communication protocols and monitoring digital assets are critical for staying competitive and trustworthy. Planning for the complete lifecycle of digital assets ensures obsolete systems and data do not increase the attack surface unnecessarily.
Tools like user entity behaviour analysis can be employed to detect unusual activity, particularly in email systems, helping thwart costly business email compromises. Addressing weaknesses such as default or weak passwords in software supply chains is also crucial, as these vulnerabilities are easily exploited by attackers.
Organisations should establish robust data management strategies to prevent data misuse and comply with privacy regulations. Simple measures, like displaying sender email addresses, can help identify phishing attempts. Automating digital certificate management ensures cryptographic assets remain updated and secure, while securing open-source software reduces risks associated with its vulnerabilities.
Regular reviews of access management policies prevent outdated permissions from creating security gaps. Keeping software updated is a basic yet often neglected practice that protects against known vulnerabilities. Multifactor authentication (MFA) and password managers further reduce risks tied to weak credentials. Backing up essential data and encrypting these backups safeguard against ransomware attacks, ensuring quick recovery and operational continuity.
Finally, businesses must address cloud security by properly configuring settings, enforcing access controls, and employing automated tools to detect and resolve misconfigurations. These practices collectively reduce the chances of exposing sensitive information.
Prioritising these cybersecurity measures creates a solid foundation for safeguarding organisational assets. In an era of constant cyber threats, implementing best practices and addressing common weaknesses is not just advisable—it is imperative.
Team Internet plc (LON:TIG) – formerly CentralNic – is a global internet solutions group headquartered in London. Leveraging world-class technologies and industry leading teams, they have been transforming the way organisations, brands, publishers and consumers connect and thrive online.