In today’s digitally-driven world, having a strong cybersecurity maturity is essential for businesses of all sizes. Unfortunately, many businesses are not taking the necessary steps to ensure their systems are secure from potential cybersecurity breaches.
According to a study by the University of Maryland, there is a new cyber-attack every 39 seconds. The majority of cyber threats can pass unnoticed, or they may be discovered after it is too late for a company to prevent the exposure and the risks associated with it. Therefore, an approach to cybersecurity that just concentrates on the prevention of cyber-attacks is not enough. Companies must prioritise detection and response to safeguard their most important assets, with a cybersecurity plan that should be matured enough to let them operate securely, be aware of cyber dangers, and endure with fortitude if they are targeted.
What is cybersecurity maturity?
Cybersecurity maturity is the level of security a business has achieved in protecting its networks, systems, and data from digital attacks. Businesses need to have a robust security system in place to protect their data and ensure their systems are secure from potential cyber threats. Cybersecurity maturity can be measured in terms of the measures taken to protect a business’s data and systems, the effectiveness of these measures, and the level of risk a business is exposed to.
A business’s security maturity can be measured in terms of the following:
- The level of knowledge and experience the business has in terms of cybersecurity.
- The security measures the business has in place to protect its data and systems.
- The effectiveness of these measures and the level of risk a business is exposed to.
Businesses need to have a comprehensive understanding of their cybersecurity maturity to identify any weaknesses and take the necessary steps to improve their security.
Developing a comprehensive security strategy
The first step in boosting a business’s cybersecurity maturity is to develop a comprehensive security strategy. This security strategy should be tailored to the specific needs of the business and should include measures to protect the business’s data and systems from cyber threats. This security strategy should include measures such as:
- Developing and implementing an effective security policy.
- Identifying and managing any potential risks.
- Ensuring there is a secure backup system in place.
- Training employees on cybersecurity best practices.
- Establishing an incident response plan.
By developing and implementing a comprehensive security strategy, businesses can ensure they are taking the necessary precautions to protect their data and systems from digital attacks.
Implementing the right security tools
The second step to boosting a business’s cybersecurity maturity is to implement the right security tools. These security tools should be tailored to the specific needs of the business and should be regularly updated to ensure they are up-to-date with the latest security trends. Security tools such as firewalls, antivirus software, and encryption should be used to protect a business’s data and systems from potential cyber threats.
It is also important for businesses to use multi-factor authentication (MFA) to provide an additional layer of security. MFA requires users to provide two pieces of information (such as a password and a code sent via text message) to access their accounts, making it much harder for attackers to gain access to a business’s data and systems.
Training employees on cyber risks
Employees are the first line of defence in protecting a business’s data and systems from digital attacks, so it is important for businesses to ensure they are adequately trained on cyber risks. Employees should be trained on the potential risks of using unsecured networks and devices, as well as how to identify and report suspicious activity.
Businesses should also provide employees with the necessary tools and resources to stay up-to-date with the latest security trends. This could include sending out regular emails or newsletters with the latest security news and providing employees with access to security awareness training courses.
Establishing an incident response plan
Having a robust incident response plan in place is essential for businesses to ensure they are properly prepared for any potential cyber attacks. An incident response plan should include measures to identify, contain, and respond to any potential threats. It should include steps on how to identify suspicious activity, how to respond to an attack, and how to mitigate any potential damage.
It is also important for businesses to have a system in place to monitor and detect any suspicious activity on their networks and systems. This could be in the form of using advanced analytics and machine learning to detect any potential threats.
Regularly assessing security risks
It is important for businesses to regularly assess their security risks to identify any potential weaknesses in their security systems. This could involve conducting regular security audits to identify any potential vulnerabilities, as well as testing their systems and networks to ensure they are secure from potential cyber threats.
Businesses should also monitor their networks and systems for any suspicious activity and respond promptly to any potential threats. This could involve using security analytics to detect any potential threats and taking the necessary steps to mitigate any potential damage.
Staying up-to-date with the latest security trends
The fifth and final step to boosting a business’s cybersecurity maturity is to stay up-to-date with the latest cyber threats and attacks, as well as any new security tools and technologies that are available. This will enable them to identify any potential threats and take the necessary steps to protect their data and systems.
Entrust your business security to the experts
Businesses of all sizes should take cybersecurity maturity seriously in today’s rapidly digitalizing world. INTELLIWORX managed security services have the expertise and knowledge to ensure your business has the right security controls in place to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of its data assets and operations. Investing in a robust cybersecurity maturity strategy is essential to ensure that organisations remain protected against today’s cyber threats.
