Improving Your Cybersecurity Posture

Cyber attacks and breaches are in the news regularly, so it begs the question, why doesn’t every organization try to improve its cybersecurity posture? There are many reasons why companies don’t thoroughly assess their cybersecurity. 

Lack of Awareness: Some companies may not fully understand the importance of cybersecurity or the potential risks they face. This lack of awareness can lead to complacency.

Resource Constraints: Smaller companies, in particular, may lack the resources (financial, human, or technological) needed to invest in robust cybersecurity measures. They might believe investing in robust cybersecurity will be unaffordable and unobtainable and prioritize other business needs over security.

Misconception of Low Risk: Some organizations may mistakenly believe that they are not likely targets for cyberattacks due to their size or the nature of their business. This misconception can lead to a lack of urgency in addressing cybersecurity.

Obsolete Perceptions: Some companies may still rely on outdated perceptions that cybersecurity is only an IT issue. In reality, cybersecurity is a business-wide concern that requires attention from leadership and employees at all levels.

Complexity of Cybersecurity: Implementing effective cybersecurity measures can be complex, requiring technical expertise and ongoing efforts. Some companies may find it overwhelming and delay taking necessary actions.

Fear of Discovering Weaknesses: Some organizations might fear that conducting a thorough cybersecurity assessment could uncover vulnerabilities or weaknesses. This fear may lead to avoidance or reluctance to address potential issues.

Regulatory Compliance Challenges: Companies operating in regulated industries may struggle to meet evolving compliance requirements, creating challenges in maintaining a strong cybersecurity posture to meet these standards.

Rapid Technological Changes: The fast-paced evolution of technology makes it challenging for some companies to keep up with the latest cybersecurity threats and protective measures.

Third-Party Dependencies: Companies that rely on third-party vendors for various services may assume that those vendors are handling cybersecurity adequately. This reliance can lead to a lack of internal scrutiny.

Overconfidence in Existing Measures: Some organizations may believe that their current cybersecurity measures are sufficient and may not see the need for further assessment or improvements.

Regardless of the reason behind an immature cybersecurity posture, cyberattack risks come at a significant cost. Cyber incidents have paralyzed and put companies out of business. Companies need to recognize the importance of cybersecurity and regularly assess and work to improve their cybersecurity posture.

A strong, robust, and effective cybersecurity posture is essential for safeguarding sensitive information and ensuring critical assets’ integrity, confidentiality, and availability. This comprehensive approach involves several key components: risk awareness, access controls, encryption, incident response, security policies, and more collaborative efforts to ensure resilience and readiness against cyber threats.

A strong cybersecurity posture is not an exact science or a one-size-fits-all application. Instead, it’s a balancing act of picking and choosing the right tools, infrastructure, and other solutions on a case-by-case basis. Key ingredients in any strong cybersecurity posture include:

• Risk Assessments – No matter where the starting point of your cybersecurity journey lies, organizations should begin by conducting regular risk assessments to identify and evaluate potential threats and vulnerabilities unique to their operations. These ongoing analyses enable organizations to stay flexible and adapt security strategies to the evolving cyber landscape.
• Comprehensive Cybersecurity Policies – Organizations must establish and enforce stringent cybersecurity policies to translate risk awareness into actionable measures. Crafting these policies will be an insightful learning experience as oversights may require frequent revising and rewriting of policies and procedures.
• Policies should cover various cybersecurity aspects, including data protection, employee behavior, and incident response. Employees should become well-versed in these policies through regular cybersecurity training programs, fostering a culture of awareness and responsibility.
• Access Control – One element of maintaining cyber defenses and keeping sensitive data away from malicious cybercriminals includes keeping that data away from internal employees who don’t need access. Implementing the principle of least privilege ensures employees only have the access necessary for their roles, reducing the risk of unauthorized access, social engineering scams, and data breaches.
• Network Security – Organizations’ network security should include infrastructure such as firewalls and intrusion detection or prevention systems while following secure configurations. Consistent updates and system patches help mitigate vulnerabilities and strengthen the overall security posture. Similarly, endpoint security measures, such as robust antivirus software and detection solutions, are crucial for protecting individual devices. Regular monitoring for anomalies ensures timely detection and response to potential threats.
  

• Encryption – Employing encryption for data in transit and at rest protects against unauthorized access, adding a layer of defense. Organizations should also establish and regularly test an incident response plan, defining roles and responsibilities to manage and mitigate security incidents efficiently.
• Vendor Security – Organizations’ third-party vendors are often the most likely points of entry or origin source of a cyberattack. Assessing and monitoring the security practices of outside vendors and third-party providers ensures alignment with organizations’ internal cybersecurity standards and protocols. Moreover, a proactive approach involves regular data backups and testing recovery processes to protect against data loss in the event of a cyber incident.
• Regulatory Compliance – Remaining compliant with relevant data protection and privacy regulations is imperative to maintaining a strong cybersecurity posture. Keeping policies up-to-date is essential to align with compliance changes or new requirements. Engaging employees in ongoing security awareness and training programs encourages a collective effort to maintain compliance and a continuously improved cybersecurity posture.
• Continuous Monitoring – Advanced, around-the-clock monitoring is vital for real-time threat detection and response efforts, contributing to a strong cybersecurity posture. Utilizing threat intelligence helps organizations stay informed about emerging risks and adjust security strategies accordingly. Regular security audits and assessments assist in identifying and addressing weaknesses or gaps in the security infrastructure.

Even with a strategic approach and expert guidance along your cybersecurity journey, you may make mistakes and hit a few bumps in the road. Some mistakes can hinder an organization’s efforts toward a stronger cybersecurity posture, introducing delays, creating misalignments within organizational or compliance requirements, and misdirecting valuable time, money, and other resources. Business leaders and security executives should avoid three missteps: waiting to hire cybersecurity experts, not taking a holistic approach, and pursuing the wrong or unnecessary accreditations.

Hiring Consultants Too Late

Contracting with cybersecurity experts and consultants at the wrong time can negatively impact an organization’s journey toward a stronger cybersecurity posture. If consultants are brought in too late after the organization has already experienced harmful security incidents or found dangerous vulnerabilities, they’ll be addressing issues reactively rather than proactively. Despite bringing specialized experts on board, organizations can find themselves facing increased response costs, potential data breaches, and damage to their reputations. Additionally, late-stage involvement may result in missed opportunities for strategic planning and implementation of preventive measures, hindering the establishment of a robust cybersecurity foundation.

Choosing Too Narrow of a Cybersecurity Posture Spectrum

Opting for a cybersecurity posture that is too narrow and doesn’t align with other organizational requirements can impede overall effectiveness. If the chosen posture focuses solely on specific technologies or compliance requirements without considering the broader organizational or industry context, it may create silos and gaps in cybersecurity coverage. A narrow focus on technology may overlook the importance of employee training and awareness efforts, for example, leaving the organization vulnerable to social engineering and targeted phishing attacks. A well-rounded cybersecurity posture should integrate seamlessly with the organization’s overall strategy, addressing technology, people, and processes to ensure comprehensive protection.

Spending Money in the Wrong Places or for the Wrong Accreditations

Misallocating financial resources in cybersecurity spending can undermine an organization’s efforts to build a strong cybersecurity posture. Investing in the wrong tools or solutions that do not align with the organization’s specific risks and needs may result in wasted resources and an inefficient security infrastructure. Similarly, pursuing the wrong accreditations or certifications irrelevant to your industry or regulatory landscape can lead to misguided compliance efforts. This practice wastes money and creates a false sense of security, as the organization might not adequately address its actual threats. Strategic and informed investment and spending decisions are crucial to building an efficient, cost-effective, and impactful cybersecurity defense.

Organizations seeking an improved cybersecurity posture can rest assured they don’t have to do it alone or empty-handed. In addition to finding valuable partners and expert consultants to help plan a strategic security roadmap, organizations can leverage a variety of tools and powerful resources to enhance their cybersecurity posture:

Firewalls and Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS)

Firewalls serve as a critical defense mechanism by monitoring and controlling network traffic, defending against unauthorized access, malware, and other threats attempting to breach the network perimeter. Intrusion prevention systems (IPS) add an additional layer of security by actively identifying and thwarting potential threats. These tools significantly influence cybersecurity posture by establishing a secure boundary and protecting against external attacks. Organizations can find reputable firewall and IPS solutions from many cybersecurity vendors, and partnerships with network security experts can enhance their effectiveness.

Antivirus and Antimalware Tools

Antivirus and antimalware solutions are essential for defending against malicious software attacks, including viruses, trojans, and ransomware. By constantly scanning and identifying suspicious files or activities, these tools mitigate the risk of malware infections and can help safeguard organizations’ entire networks and all endpoints. Established cybersecurity providers have honed effective antivirus solutions, and dedicated threat intelligence services can significantly enhance real-time malware detection capabilities.

Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) Solutions

EDR solutions from capable cybersecurity vendors or managed security service providers off live monitoring and response capabilities on individual devices. Every employee’s laptop, smartphone, tablet, or other connected device represents an opportunity for cybercriminals to gain access to organizations’ seemingly secure networks. EDR tools defend against advanced threats by detecting and mitigating security incidents on users’ endpoint devices, enabling swift response to potential breaches and minimizing the impact of attacks. 

Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) Systems

SIEM systems collect, analyze, and correlate log data from various sources to identify and respond to security incidents. Typically robust and versatile, SIEM tools defend against a wide range of threats by providing comprehensive visibility throughout an organization’s IT infrastructure. SIEM solutions directly influence cybersecurity posture by improving incident detection and response capabilities. 

Vulnerability Scanners

Vulnerability scanners assess and identify weaknesses in an organization’s internal systems, networks, or applications. Deployed by cybersecurity providers or specialized penetration testing services, vulnerability scanners defend against potential exploits by proactively identifying potential weak points, red flags, or other internal vulnerabilities.

Identity and Access Management (IAM) Solutions

IAM solutions manage user identities, access rights, and permissions, defending against unauthorized access and identity-related threats. IAM directly influences cybersecurity posture by ensuring only authorized individuals have access to specific resources, proprietary data, or private customer information. Organizations can adopt IAM solutions from reputable vendors, and partnerships with identity security experts can significantly enhance IAM implementation and management.

Encryption Tools

Advanced encryption protects sensitive data by converting it into unreadable code, leaving it useless to cybercriminals hoping to extract a ransom with the threat of a data breach if payments aren’t made. Encryption specialists and cybersecurity partners can help organizations significantly improve their cybersecurity posture by securing data and information both at rest and in transit between network devices or supply chain partners.

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA adds an extra layer of heightened security by requiring users to provide multiple forms of identification. By strengthening authentication processes and defending against unauthorized access, MFA enhances access security, making it exponentially more difficult for cybercriminals to secure compromised login credentials.

Incident Response and Forensic Tools

Incident response tools help organizations efficiently manage and mitigate unpreventable security incidents, while forensic tools aid investigative efforts in analyzing security breaches. By facilitating swift and effective responses, response tools can significantly minimize harmful damage and the impact of cyber incidents. 

Backup and Recovery Solutions

Backup solutions ensure regular and secure backups of critical data, while recovery solutions help to easily restore data in the event of a cyber incident. These types of tools defend against data loss and disruptions caused by ransomware or other cyberattack incidents, improving cybersecurity posture by ensuring strong data resilience. Organizations can deploy backup and recovery solutions from reputable vendors, and partnerships with data protection services can optimize backup and recovery strategies.

Small Business Cyber Learning & Training Resources

Educate yourself and become familiar with tools and training to better understand what your training should entail.

• The U.S. Federal Communications Commission offers small businesses a Cybersecurity Planner to help them build a custom strategy and cybersecurity plan.
• The Federal Trade Commission offers various downloadable resources for small businesses, from how to talk to your employees about cybersecurity to advice on cyber insurance, vendor security, and more.
• The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) provides an informative video series with companion guides on various cybersecurity topics, including phishing, ransomware, and multi-factor authentication.
• Global Cyber Alliance (GCA) offers a free and comprehensive Cybersecurity Toolkit for Small Business to help companies take immediate action to reduce their cyber risk.

Selecting a Training Method

Training methods are not one-size-fits-all. What works for other organizations may not be best for yours. Choose one or more that fit your organizational culture and supplement training with a centralized online repository for cybersecurity resources, policies, and guidelines. Some methods to consider include:

• In-person workshops 
• Virtual training sessions
• Online courses with interactive modules
• Webinars with cybersecurity experts

Engagement Strategies

During and after training, encourage employee engagement by creating a culture of cybersecurity. Some strategies to develop a cybersecurity-centric culture include:

• Contests and quizzes on cybersecurity topics
• Open forums for discussing security concerns
• Regular updates on the latest cybersecurity threats and trends
• Newsletters with tips, best practices, and success stories from the organization
• Visually appealing posters and infographics in common areas to reinforce key cybersecurity messages

Today’s Digital Trends. Tomorrow’s Cyber Threats.

As technology continues to evolve, new digital trends emerge, bringing both opportunities and challenges. The following are some digital trends that may pose cybersecurity threats in the future:

Internet of Things (IoT) Vulnerabilities: The proliferation of IoT devices increases the attack surface for cybercriminals. Insecure IoT devices, lacking proper security measures, may be exploited for malicious purposes.

5G Network Security Concerns: The rollout of 5G networks introduces faster and more connected devices, but it also raises security concerns. Threat actors may exploit vulnerabilities in 5G infrastructure, leading to potential cyberattacks.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) Exploitation: AI and ML technologies are increasingly being used for cyberattacks. Threat actors may leverage these technologies to conduct more sophisticated and targeted attacks, including automated phishing and deepfake attacks.

Ransomware as a Service (RaaS): The rise of Ransomware as a Service allows even non-technical individuals to launch ransomware attacks. This trend makes ransomware more accessible, leading to an increase in attacks across various industries.

Supply Chain Attacks: Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting the supply chain to gain unauthorized access to networks and systems. These attacks include compromising software vendors, third-party service providers, or suppliers to reach their ultimate targets.

Quantum Computing Risks: While quantum computing holds the promise of significant advancements, it also poses a threat to current encryption methods. Cybersecurity must evolve to address the potential risks associated with quantum computing breaking existing encryption algorithms.

Edge Computing Security Challenges: Edge computing involves processing data closer to the source and introduces new security challenges. Ensuring the security of devices at the edge of the network becomes crucial to prevent unauthorized access and data breaches.

Deepfake Threats: Deepfake technology allows the creation of realistic fake audio and video content. This technology poses risks of social engineering attacks, misinformation, and the potential to impersonate individuals for malicious purposes.

Cloud Security Risks: The widespread adoption of cloud services introduces new attack vectors. Misconfigured cloud settings, insecure application programming interfaces (APIs), and inadequate access controls may lead to data breaches and unauthorized access.

Biometric Authentication Vulnerabilities: The use of biometric authentication methods, such as fingerprints or facial recognition, may face security challenges. Biometric data breaches and the potential for spoofing attacks on biometric systems are concerns.

Cyber-Physical Attacks: With the increasing connectivity of physical systems to the digital realm (e.g., smart cities, industrial IoT), cyber-physical attacks targeting critical infrastructure may become more prevalent.

Zero-Day Exploits and Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs): Cybercriminals continue to exploit zero-day vulnerabilities and deploy sophisticated APTs. As detection capabilities improve, threat actors may adapt by using more advanced and evasive tactics.

Organizations should prioritize proactive cybersecurity measures to address these emerging cybersecurity threats, including regular risk assessments, employee training, up-to-date patching, and adopting advanced security technologies. Collaboration within the cybersecurity community and staying informed about evolving threat landscapes are crucial components of a robust cybersecurity strategy.

As technology continues to evolve, new digital trends emerge, bringing both opportunities and challenges. The following are some digital trends that may pose cybersecurity threats in the future:

Internet of Things (IoT) Vulnerabilities: The proliferation of IoT devices increases the attack surface for cybercriminals. Insecure IoT devices, lacking proper security measures, may be exploited for malicious purposes.

5G Network Security Concerns: The rollout of 5G networks introduces faster and more connected devices, but it also raises security concerns. Threat actors may exploit vulnerabilities in 5G infrastructure, leading to potential cyberattacks.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) Exploitation: AI and ML technologies are increasingly being used for cyberattacks. Threat actors may leverage these technologies to conduct more sophisticated and targeted attacks, including automated phishing and deepfake attacks.

Ransomware as a Service (RaaS): The rise of Ransomware as a Service allows even non-technical individuals to launch ransomware attacks. This trend makes ransomware more accessible, leading to an increase in attacks across various industries.

Supply Chain Attacks: Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting the supply chain to gain unauthorized access to networks and systems. These attacks include compromising software vendors, third-party service providers, or suppliers to reach their ultimate targets.

Quantum Computing Risks: While quantum computing holds the promise of significant advancements, it also poses a threat to current encryption methods. Cybersecurity must evolve to address the potential risks associated with quantum computing breaking existing encryption algorithms.

Edge Computing Security Challenges: Edge computing involves processing data closer to the source and introduces new security challenges. Ensuring the security of devices at the edge of the network becomes crucial to prevent unauthorized access and data breaches.

Deepfake Threats: Deepfake technology allows the creation of realistic fake audio and video content. This technology poses risks of social engineering attacks, misinformation, and the potential to impersonate individuals for malicious purposes.

Cloud Security Risks: The widespread adoption of cloud services introduces new attack vectors. Misconfigured cloud settings, insecure application programming interfaces (APIs), and inadequate access controls may lead to data breaches and unauthorized access.

Biometric Authentication Vulnerabilities: The use of biometric authentication methods, such as fingerprints or facial recognition, may face security challenges. Biometric data breaches and the potential for spoofing attacks on biometric systems are concerns.

Cyber-Physical Attacks: With the increasing connectivity of physical systems to the digital realm (e.g., smart cities, industrial IoT), cyber-physical attacks targeting critical infrastructure may become more prevalent.

Zero-Day Exploits and Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs): Cybercriminals continue to exploit zero-day vulnerabilities and deploy sophisticated APTs. As detection capabilities improve, threat actors may adapt by using more advanced and evasive tactics.

Organizations should prioritize proactive cybersecurity measures to address these emerging cybersecurity threats, including regular risk assessments, employee training, up-to-date patching, and adopting advanced security technologies. Collaboration within the cybersecurity community and staying informed about evolving threat landscapes are crucial components of a robust cybersecurity strategy.

Strengthening your cybersecurity posture should be viewed and treated as a risk-management issue, not simply an IT problem. IT problems can commonly be permanently resolved through various solutions, whereas risk management is forever ongoing. Establishing, building up, and maintaining your cybersecurity posture is about the journey, not the destination—because there’s never a fixed final destination for organizations to reach.

You’ll never be “finished” managing your cybersecurity posture. There will constantly be evolving threats to defend against. You’ll always be in the process of improving cybersecurity measures based on new standards, specific contract demands, or new regulatory requirements. Consider the impacts on cybersecurity with every ongoing decision. A cybersecurity-aware mindset should permeate all business operations, such as hiring, training, and day-to-day workflows.

Embarking on a cybersecurity journey is like running a never-ending race. Organizations must commit long-term to investing in the right people, technology, and other resources, layering upgraded or additional systems into IT networks and cybersecurity infrastructure. Even the most state-of-the-art technology has a shelf life before its effectiveness wanes as savvy cybercriminals devise a workaround or new attack patterns.