The threat of cyberattacks looms large for every entrepreneur. This threat is especially acute for digital marketing companies and other businesses that work primarily in the online world. Just because attacks are common doesn’t mean they’re inevitable. A few straightforward actions can prevent a worst-case scenario from happening. Here are seven simple ways to keep your digital operation safe.
1. Focus on Threat Detection and Response
The speed with which a threat is found, isolated, and contained makes all the difference. Data monitoring measures, in-house or bought as a service, generate critical intelligence. There are many options here. Managed detection and response (MDR) services use multiple human and automated solutions to hunt for threats. Managed extended detection and response (MXDR) tools are a more expansive version of this concept. Shop around for the solution that works with your company’s data needs.
2. Prioritize Endpoint Security Measures
Like the MXDR services mentioned above, endpoint detection and response (EDR) systems give special attention to the security of user endpoints. The difference between the two lies in scope. Endpoint detection focuses on individual user endpoints (like smartphones). This is a critical measure in an industry full of remote workers! The key to good endpoint security can be summed up in one word: compliance. Ensure that all employees adhere to a common set of security standards and take no unnecessary risks with their devices or internet connections.
3. Train Employees Regularly
The best way to secure a user endpoint is to train the user appropriately. Recent research has concluded that around 85% of data breaches are traceable to human error. Most of these mistakes are amazingly simple. Hitting the wrong button, opening unknown emails, and falling for scams made the list. Fatigue can also lead to poor judgment and slow reaction time. Have regular training sessions in which you teach workers to recognize the warning signs of a scam. Teach them to be skeptical of third parties and insist upon legitimate credentials from anyone new to the network.
4. Minimize Network Access
The culture of skepticism mentioned above is commonly referred to as “zero trust” security architecture. Staggering access to your network based on proven intentions is a powerful way to filter out potentially malicious actors. Another advisable tactic is to limit the lateral movement of new users. This means keeping user privileges to the bare minimum needed for the user to accomplish their intended task. In such a networked environment, trust must be earned.
5. Encrypt All Data
Your data is the ultimate prize for cybercriminals. For this reason, encryption of data at all levels is often recommended. Having an encrypted hard drive is a typical solution. Some operating systems come with built-in encryption options. Microsoft’s BitLocker is a prime example of this. It’s also advantageous to store data offline entirely. Flash drives often come with several layers of encryption. Some even have biometric locking. Secure transmission methods like a virtual private network (VPN) or communication tools that employ end-to-end encryption are also practical. The more layers of protection you deploy, the better.
6. Incorporate Firewall Systems
Digital marketing companies typically do much of their marketing through email and SMS. Because of this, consider adding a firewall to your network security suite. Firewalls act as a filter, flagging suspicious traffic to your network. Since attackers commonly hide malicious software in spam emails, having a firewall can give you peace of mind. Hardware firewalls are physical machines, while software firewalls run via an application on your device. Either can stop a potential attack before it materializes.
7. Update Software and Firmware
System updates are notorious for their ability to interrupt workflow. Consequently, many don’t install them right away. Even so, those updates often contain fixes for recently-discovered security vulnerabilities, so at least consider setting aside time for installing updates. Don’t forget: faulty or obsolete hardware can also leave systems vulnerable to attack. Take a hard look at your infrastructure and think about upgrading.
Digital companies don’t just have to protect proprietary data. The personal information of customers is also at risk. Thankfully, a few easy, intuitive measures can cut risk considerably. Consider these steps when constructing your cybersecurity plan.
