With cyber technology and threat actors in a race to see who can outsmart whom, protecting your business can seem like a complicated undertaking. With all the patches, antivirus software, and cyber awareness training, you may wonder where to start. The answer? Your network.
Understanding the intricacies of your network, from its architecture to its endpoints, is a foundational principle of effective cybersecurity. Lacking this knowledge leaves critical vulnerabilities unaddressed, making it imperative to grasp the complexities of your network’s inner workings to safeguard against ever-evolving cyber threats.
Here are some tips to ignite your cybersecurity fortification journey:
Network mapping and inventory: Begin with an extensive mapping of your network and create an inventory of hardware and software assets. Knowing what exists in your network is the first step toward securing it effectively. Maintain an updated list of all devices, software, and their configurations.
Access control: Implement stringent access controls and limit access to sensitive data and systems only to those who need it. Regularly review and update access permissions as personnel change and ensure every team member understands their security responsibilities.
Incident response plan: Knowing what to do in a crisis can minimize damage and downtime. Develop a well-defined incident response plan that outlines the steps to take in the event of a cyberattack. An incident response plan should identify key internal and external stakeholders, as well as cover incident investigation, forensic evidence collection, remediation, return to normal operations, and post-incident analysis for continuous improvement.
Regular vulnerability scanning: Understanding where vulnerabilities exist allows you to prioritize and address them proactively. Conduct regular vulnerability assessments and penetration tests to identify weak points in your network’s security.
Security patch management: Unpatched systems are often entry points for cyberattacks. Stay vigilant about applying security patches and updates to all network components, including operating systems, applications, and network devices.
Monitor and detect: Proactively spotting potential threats allows for rapid response. Employ network monitoring tools and intrusion detection systems to detect suspicious activities in real-time, enhancing your ability to thwart cyber threats in their tracks.
Data backup and recovery: Regularly back up your critical data and ensure that backups are stored securely and independently from the primary network. In the event of a ransomware attack, having accessible and uncorrupted backups can help prevent you from falling victim to extortion.
Encryption: Use encryption to protect sensitive data in transit and at rest. Understanding the types of encryptions used within your network and ensuring their proper configuration is crucial for safeguarding data.
User training: Employees are typically the front-line targets for phishing and social engineering attacks. Invest in annual or bi-annual cybersecurity training for all employees to ensure they are aware of best practices and the potential risks they may encounter.
Expert collaboration: Utilizing resources such as an attorney, data breach coach, or cyber insurance advisor can help you devise strategies to fortify your network’s security posture. An experienced cyber insurance advisor can partner with you in this continual cybersecurity process by helping you identify potential exposures, offer resources, such as incident response teams, and create customized risk mitigation solutions that align with your unique profile.
The more knowledge you possess, the more power you have to protect your organization’s network. We leverage industry-leading technology and relationships with top insurance companies to cultivate solutions to fortify your business for whatever tomorrow holds.
Partner with us to join you on your cybersecurity journey.
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We’re ready to help when you are. Get in touch and one of our experienced Baldwin advisors will reach out to have a conversation about your business or individual needs and goals, then make a plan to map your path to the possible.
This document is intended for general information purposes only and should not be construed as advice or opinions on any specific facts or circumstances. The content of this document is made available on an “as is” basis, without warranty of any kind. The Baldwin Group, LLC (“The Baldwin Group”), its affiliates, and subsidiaries do not guarantee that this information is, or can be relied on for, compliance with any law or regulation, assurance against preventable losses, or freedom from legal liability. This publication is not intended to be legal, underwriting, or any other type of professional advice. The Baldwin Group does not guarantee any particular outcome and makes no commitment to update any information herein or remove any items that are no longer accurate or complete. Furthermore, The Baldwin Group does not assume any liability to any person or organization for loss or damage caused by or resulting from any reliance placed on that content. Persons requiring advice should always consult an independent adviser.
