Five Efficient Ways of Preventing Data Breaches
We all get reminded of the importance of data security when reports of organizations losing millions to data attacks make the headlines. Based on recent reports, these attacks seem to be increasing rapidly. According to 2021 Data security report by Deloitte, SMEs, health institutions, public, private, financial, and non-financial institutions in Nigeria suffered massive hits from cybercriminals towards the end of last year and are expected to experience more of such attacks with higher magnitudes this year.
Major contributors to this have been the increase in mobile penetration in Nigeria and the adoption of new IT solutions which when not properly managed could create a premise for cyber-criminals to launch more attacks.
While some organizations still bear the notion that they are too small to be targets, others are learning to embrace the truth that data security should be a priority for every organization regardless of their size.
Data breaches, no matter how small, can ruin business processes and make customers doubt the credibility of an organization’s systems. Hence, Organizations today are expected to be strategic and practical about their approach towards securing their data. While this might sound like a huge task to take on, there are simple steps that organizations could take to strengthen their security posture.
These are five efficient tips for preventing your business from data breaches.
Make preparations ahead of time.
The most important step to preventing a data breach is to set up a defense before the attack is initiated. Making preparations ahead of time could involve carrying out a periodic vulnerability assessment to verify which of your assets are vulnerable to attacks. This will then inform the decision to tighten up loose ends that could be exploited by malicious actors. Preparing should also involve setting up a data recovery system to ensure that lost information can be restored in the event of a successful attack.
Avoid clicking unknown links
One of the most popular methods of launching cyber attacks is called phishing. It involves the use of a malicious link embedded into an email that is feigned to be sent from a reputable organization. This technique is usually used to steal sensitive data like credit card and login information or to install malware on the victim’s machine. A 2019 report by Verion established that 78% of cyber-attacks involve phishing. So, as simple as staying your hands and having a second look might be, it could go a long way in saving you and your company.
Educate your staff on security measures
Hold periodic training sessions on preventing data breaches with your team. Ensure to bring up point number two in those meetings and emphasize it. Ensure that each team member is up to date on security and privacy rules. Remember that you are just as strong as your weakest line of defense. It might take a while for the information shared during these sessions to stick. So, ensure to make the training sessions periodic.
Update software regularly
Updating your software on time could make your network less vulnerable. You can be on the lookout for updates or use products like Microsoft Baseline Security Analyzer to confirm that all programs are up to date. This is a cost-effective and easy approach to preventing cyber-attacks.
Employ the service of a security optimization agency
With a security optimization agency, you can leverage the expertise of a team of industry specialists in managing security issues and maintaining a more secure posture in the cyber world. Let them focus on the work of keeping you safe, while you focus on your revenue generation and expansion goals without worry.
Want us to take care of your data security needs, send us an email @hi@descasio.io contact us on 01 912 5048.
