Want to get cyber-savvy with your organization but don’t know anything about technology? Here are the basics of cybersecurity to give you a starting point.
Businesses need to be aware of the growing and ever-present threat of cyber-attacks. Getting to know your way around the world of cybersecurity systems, platforms, and technology can give you an advantage when it comes to avoiding the millions of dollars a large-scale data breach would cost you. If you know the basics, the rest will come with experience. Here is what you need to know about cyber security to give yourself – and your business – a fighting chance.
What is Cybersecurity?
The first thing they teach you about cybersecurity is that protecting consumer data, product data, and company secrets is what cybersecurity is all about. It is the act of protecting your online systems from hackers and against any potential bugs and viruses your enemies may send. You need to learn more about why it is important to understand cybersecurity to protect your business in the modern world.
Why Do We Need Online Security?
Hackers both try to break into your online data storage systems for money and for fun. They may receive payment for doing so, or – and this one is clever – they may be in the pocket of your competitors. If your competitors are not launching cyber-attacks to try and steal your company's knowledge, then are they even really your enemies? Cybersecurity protects your company secrets and your customer’s data from malicious attacks. The mere act of preventing data breaches saves companies millions every year.
The 5 Cs of Cyber Protection
There are said to be 5 Cs associated with getting your data protection plan in place. The C’s go as follows:
- Change: if your systems are not good enough, you can change them. This might require an expert technician who can put these new programs in place for you – or at least map out a strategy.
- Compliance: your cyber security expert understands GDPR policies in your region and can ensure you comply with these laws. Unless you know the rules inside out, you should outsource your cyber protection.
- Costs: the cost of your systems should be scalable alongside your growth and should see a limitation on expenses/overheads should you use your cybersecurity programs.
- Continuity: if you do not consistently maintain and update your online security measures, you will expose your software to hackers.
- Coverage: hackers will also look for gaps in your online security. It is through loopholes in your system and gaps in your protection. Plug up these gaps, or you may fall foul.
How to Put Cybersecurity Systems in Place
Whether you have a large or small company and no matter which sector of the industry you work in, you will need to invest in online security measures or face the price of the consequences. Sources say that the cost of a data breach last year was $4.35 million per company. Do not leave this to chance, do not have Jen from accounting do it on a Monday morning: hire a professional and protect your customers, your data, and your reputation.
