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How Artificial Intelligence Is Bolstering Digital Defense

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, so does the relentless march of cyber threats. In the ever-escalating battle between cybercriminals and cybersecurity professionals, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged not only as a formidable adversary in the wrong hands but also as a powerful ally when wielded responsibly. 

In this follow-up article, we delve into the transformative role of AI as a guardian of digital defence, exploring the advancements, strategies, and ethical considerations that define the new era of cybersecurity.

1. The Evolution of AI in Cybersecurity

The integration of AI into cybersecurity has marked a paradigm shift in the way we approach digital defence. Initially perceived as a potential vulnerability, AI has, over time, proven to be a vital asset in fortifying our cyber defences. 

Machine learning algorithms, neural networks, and advanced analytics have enabled AI to analyze massive datasets, identify patterns, and detect anomalies at speeds and scales that surpass human capabilities. This evolution has given rise to a new era of proactive defence, where threats are anticipated and neutralized before they can manifest into a breach.

2. Proactive Threat Detection and Prevention

One of the primary strengths of AI in cybersecurity lies in its ability to predict and prevent threats before they materialize. Unlike traditional security measures that rely on known signatures and patterns, AI-powered systems can adapt and learn in real time. 

This proactive approach is particularly crucial in an environment where cyber threats are dynamic, sophisticated, and ever-evolving. By constantly analyzing patterns and behaviours, AI can identify emerging threats, vulnerabilities, and attack vectors, allowing cybersecurity professionals to stay ahead of the curve.

3. The Rise of AI-Powered Intrusion Detection Systems

AI has played a pivotal role in the development of advanced Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS). These systems leverage machine learning algorithms to analyze network traffic, user behaviour, and system activities in real-time. 

By establishing a baseline of normal behaviour, AI-powered IDS can swiftly identify deviations indicative of a potential intrusion. This not only reduces false positives but also enhances the overall accuracy of threat detection, enabling quicker response times and mitigation strategies.

4. Behavioral Analysis and Anomaly Detection

One of the key strengths of AI is its capacity for behavioural analysis. By continuously learning and adapting to normal patterns of user behaviour, AI can swiftly identify anomalies that may indicate a security threat. 

Whether it’s detecting unusual login patterns, deviations in data access, or unexpected network traffic, AI-driven systems excel at recognizing subtle signs of malicious activity that may go unnoticed by traditional security measures.

5. Collaborative Defense Ecosystems

The era of AI in cybersecurity has fostered collaborative defence ecosystems. Threat intelligence sharing platforms powered by AI enable organizations to pool their collective knowledge and experience, creating a unified front against cyber threats. 

This collaborative approach enhances the ability to identify and respond to emerging threats more effectively, as insights and indicators of compromise are shared in real-time across a network of interconnected defences.

6. Ethical Considerations in AI-Powered Cybersecurity

While AI has proven to be a stalwart defender in the realm of cybersecurity, the ethical considerations surrounding its use cannot be ignored. Striking the right balance between privacy, transparency, and the need for robust defence mechanisms is a complex challenge. 

Responsible AI practices, adherence to ethical guidelines, and transparent communication with end-users are essential to ensuring that the deployment of AI in cybersecurity aligns with societal values and expectations.

7. The Role of AI in Incident Response

AI is not only a guardian on the preventive front but also a crucial asset in incident response. In the aftermath of a security incident, AI can expedite the forensic analysis process, identify the root causes of the breach, and facilitate a swift and effective response. Automated incident response powered by AI can mitigate the impact of a breach, contain the threat, and enable organizations to recover more rapidly.

8. Continuous Adaptation to Emerging Threats

The dynamic nature of cyber threats requires a cybersecurity strategy that can adapt and evolve in real time. AI, with its learning capabilities, excels in this regard. As cyber threats become more sophisticated and diverse, AI-powered defences continuously learn from new data and adapt their models to address emerging challenges. 

This adaptability is a crucial factor in maintaining the resilience of digital defences in the face of an ever-changing threat landscape.

Conclusion: Navigating the Future of Cybersecurity with AI

The Guardian AI, as we aptly label it, is reshaping the future of cybersecurity. Its ability to proactively defend against threats, collaborate within ecosystems, and enhance incident response capabilities positions AI as a cornerstone of digital defence. 

However, as we embrace the transformative power of AI, we must remain vigilant in addressing the ethical considerations associated with its use. The future of cybersecurity lies in our ability to harness the potential of AI responsibly, ensuring a symbiotic relationship between technology and the values we hold dear. In this dynamic landscape, the Guardian AI stands as a sentinel, protecting our digital realms from the ever-present shadows of cyber threats.

5 Min. Read//by

Why You Should Adopt WatchGuard to Secure Your Business Online

Introduction

In today’s complex cybersecurity landscape, choosing the right solution is crucial for protecting businesses from evolving threats. WatchGuard has emerged as a leading provider of cybersecurity solutions, but how does it compare to its competitors? This blog post offers a comparative analysis of WatchGuard’s offerings against key competitors in the cybersecurity market, highlighting the unique features, benefits, and advantages that set WatchGuard apart.

WatchGuard’s Key Features and Benefits

WatchGuard offers a comprehensive suite of cybersecurity solutions designed to address the diverse needs of businesses. Key features include:

1 Advanced Threat Detection

WatchGuard’s cybersecurity solutions are equipped with cutting-edge advanced threat detection mechanisms. Leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning, WatchGuard identifies and mitigates sophisticated threats, including malware, ransomware, and zero-day attacks. The advanced threat detection capabilities ensure that businesses stay ahead of emerging cyber threats, providing a proactive defence against potential security breaches.

2 Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Recognising the increasing importance of securing user access, WatchGuard integrates robust multi-factor authentication (MFA) features into its solutions. MFA adds a layer of protection beyond traditional username and password credentials, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorised access. Whether it’s securing remote access to corporate networks or protecting sensitive data, WatchGuard’s MFA ensures a secure authentication process.

3 Secure Remote Access

In the era of remote work, securing remote access to corporate networks is paramount. WatchGuard’s solutions offer secure and seamless remote access, allowing employees to connect to corporate resources from any location without compromising security. With features like VPN (Virtual Private Network) and secure mobile access, WatchGuard enables organisations to maintain productivity while ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of data.

4 Cloud Security

As businesses increasingly migrate to cloud environments, WatchGuard provides robust cloud security solutions. These solutions are tailored to protect data and applications hosted in the cloud, offering a holistic approach to cloud security. WatchGuard ensures that organizations can embrace cloud technologies with confidence, knowing that their assets are shielded from potential cyber threats.

5 Scalability and Flexibility

WatchGuard’s cybersecurity solutions are designed to be scalable and flexible, catering to the varying needs of businesses of all sizes. Whether you’re a small startup or a large enterprise, WatchGuard adapts to the scale of your operations. This scalability ensures that your cybersecurity framework can seamlessly evolve as your business grows to meet new challenges and demands.

6 User-Friendly Interfaces

Recognizing that effective cybersecurity should not be overly complex, WatchGuard places a strong emphasis on user-friendly interfaces. The intuitive design of WatchGuard’s solutions ensures that organisations can easily manage and monitor their cybersecurity posture without requiring extensive technical expertise. This approach enhances user adoption and reduces the learning curve of implementing and maintaining robust cybersecurity measures.

7 Reliable Performance

WatchGuard’s commitment to providing reliable performance is evident in the performance benchmarks and reliability of its solutions. Businesses can rely on WatchGuard to deliver consistent and dependable cybersecurity services, minimising downtime and ensuring continuous protection against cyber threats.

8 Comprehensive Protection

One of the key strengths of WatchGuard’s cybersecurity suite is its ability to offer comprehensive protection. By integrating various security features into a unified platform, WatchGuard provides a holistic defence against a wide array of cyber threats. From network security to endpoint protection, WatchGuard ensures that organizations have all the tools necessary to fortify their digital infrastructure.

Competitor Analysis

While WatchGuard has established itself as a leader in the cybersecurity market, it faces stiff competition from other prominent vendors such as Cisco, Palo Alto Networks, and Fortinet. These competitors offer similar cybersecurity solutions with their own set of features, benefits, and market positioning. 

For example, Cisco is known for its extensive network security offerings and global presence, Palo Alto Networks emphasises advanced threat prevention and cloud security, and Fortinet offers integrated security solutions for network, endpoint, and cloud environments. Each competitor has its strengths and unique selling points, making the cybersecurity market highly competitive and diverse.

WatchGuard’s Competitive Advantage

Despite facing strong competition, WatchGuard maintains a competitive advantage through its unique strengths and capabilities. One of WatchGuard’s key advantages is its focus on providing integrated, easy-to-use cybersecurity solutions that offer comprehensive protection against a wide range of threats. 

Additionally, WatchGuard’s commitment to innovation, customer satisfaction, and industry recognition sets it apart from competitors. For example, WatchGuard has received numerous awards and accolades for its cybersecurity solutions, demonstrating its leadership and excellence in the market. Furthermore, customer testimonials and case studies highlight the positive outcomes and benefits achieved by organizations that have chosen WatchGuard’s technology, reinforcing its competitive advantage and value proposition.

Conclusion

In conclusion, WatchGuard offers a comprehensive suite of cybersecurity solutions that effectively address the diverse and evolving threats facing businesses today. Through its unique features, benefits, and competitive advantages, WatchGuard sets itself apart from competitors in the cybersecurity market. Organisations seeking reliable, user-friendly, and innovative cybersecurity solutions can confidently choose WatchGuard to enhance their security posture and protect against a wide range of threats.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our cybersecurity experts and take the first step towards a more secure and resilient organisation.

5 Min. Read//by

AI-Powered Attacks: The Dark Side of Artificial Intelligence

Some of the darkest portrayals of Artificial Intelligence are usually seen in movies. The latest portrayal can be seen in the new Tom Cruise longest-running franchise, Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One, where the protagonist’s impossible mission is to destroy a relentless AI known as the Entity looking to control the entire security backbone of the world (the showrunners have ostensibly run out of human characters to use as villains).

Back to the Real World.

Artificial Intelligence is currently the most trendy subject in the tech world. Virtually every industry, particularly cybersecurity, has adopted or is aligned with AI.  According to Verified Market Research, the market size for AI in cybersecurity was $17 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach an impressive $102 billion by 2032. 

It’s no coincidence that this increase in spending is fuelled by the increasing use of AI as a weapon for cyber attackers. AI-driven attacks can break through cybersecurity barriers more effectively and efficiently, leading to disastrous consequences. According to a new survey by Sapio Research, 75% of security professionals surveyed witnessed an increase in cyber attacks over the past 12 months, with 85% attributing this rise to bad actors using generative AI.

The Rise of AI in Cybersecurity

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, so do the tools and tactics of cyber attackers. The integration of Artificial Intelligence in cybersecurity was initially seen as a revolutionary advancement, a guardian against threats, and a sentinel in the realm of zeros and ones. However, like any powerful tool, AI has a dual nature – it can be used for good and nefarious purposes.

The adoption of AI in cybersecurity has grown exponentially and for valid reasons. AI algorithms can analyse vast amounts of data at speeds incomprehensible to human capabilities. They can identify patterns, anomalies, and potential threats with a previously unimaginable precision. This has enabled cybersecurity professionals to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals, predicting and preventing attacks with higher accuracy.

The Darker Side Unveiled

While AI has undoubtedly fortified the walls of digital security, it has become a double-edged sword. Malicious actors harness the capabilities that empower cybersecurity defences to orchestrate sophisticated attacks. AI-powered attacks have proven to be insidious, exploiting vulnerabilities with a level of sophistication that traditional methods struggle to combat.

Generative AI, in particular, has emerged as a potent weapon in the hands of cybercriminals. This technology, capable of creating realistic-looking data and content, has been utilised to generate convincing phishing emails, deepfake videos, and even mimic user behaviour to bypass authentication protocols. As a result, the effectiveness of these attacks has skyrocketed, leading to an alarming increase in successful cyber intrusions.

The Alarming Statistics

The shift towards AI-powered cyber attacks is not mere speculation but a harsh reality that the cybersecurity landscape is grappling with. The Sapio Research survey mentioned earlier provides a glimpse into the severity of the situation. The fact that 75% of security professionals have witnessed a surge in cyber attacks over the past year underscores the urgency of addressing this evolving threat landscape.

This indicates a clear correlation between the proliferation of AI technology and the increase in the frequency and sophistication of cyber threats.

The Targets and Motivations

AI-powered cyberattacks are not indiscriminate; they are often meticulously planned and executed with specific targets in mind. No sector is immune to the potential devastation these attacks can unleash, from critical infrastructure to financial institutions, healthcare organisations, and government agencies.

The motivations behind AI-driven cyber attacks are diverse. Financial gains, political agendas, and corporate espionage are just a few of the driving forces behind using AI as a tool for malicious intent. The ability of AI to adapt and learn from its environment makes it a formidable adversary, capable of evolving strategies to overcome changing defences.

The Ongoing Arms Race

The surge in AI-powered attacks has triggered an arms race in cybersecurity. Security professionals are tirelessly working to develop advanced AI-driven defence mechanisms to counteract the evolving tactics of cybercriminals. The challenge lies in staying ahead of the curve, anticipating the next move of adversaries equally equipped with cutting-edge AI technology.

Governments, cybersecurity firms, and organisations worldwide invest heavily in research and development to fortify their digital defences. The goal is not only to neutralise existing threats but also to anticipate and mitigate future risks. The collaboration between the public and private sectors has become crucial in the face of this escalating cyber warfare, emphasising the need for a collective and proactive approach to cybersecurity.

The Ethical Dilemma

As the battle between cybersecurity professionals and cybercriminals intensifies, the ethical implications of AI in this context cannot be overlooked. The technology designed to protect is weaponised against individuals, organisations, and even nations. Striking a balance between harnessing the potential of AI for defence while preventing its exploitation for malicious purposes is a delicate task that demands careful consideration.

Conclusion

The integration of AI in cybersecurity has undeniably reshaped the digital defence landscape. However, the dark side of Artificial Intelligence is casting a long shadow, manifesting in the form of AI-powered attacks that pose unprecedented threats. As we navigate the complex interplay between innovation and security, the need for vigilance, collaboration, and ethical considerations becomes paramount. The future of cybersecurity hinges on our ability to harness the power of AI responsibly, ensuring it remains a force for protection rather than a tool for destruction.

5 Min. Read//by

AI in Cybersecurity: Friend or Foe?

Introduction

In the age of digital interconnectedness, where the virtual realm seamlessly intertwines with the tangible world, one unsettling fact is undeniable: the spectre of cyber threats looms ever-present, waiting for an opportune moment to strike. 

It is a world characterised by complexity and perpetual evolution, where malevolent actors, veiled in anonymity, actively seek to undermine the strongholds of data security we have so diligently erected.

The domain of cyber threats is not for the faint-hearted. It bears a resemblance to a dense, treacherous forest teeming with snares and pitfalls, its adversarial denizens multiplying akin to rabbits in the vernal season. Anonymity shrouds perpetrators, and data breaches serve as the insidious currency of this digital underworld.

However, amid this dynamic and relentless landscape, a sentinel has emerged, one bearing the moniker of Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI, the vigilant guardian of the digital realm, has assumed the mantle of protecting our virtual territories against insidious infiltrators. This article embarks on an exploration of the transformative role of AI in the arena of cybersecurity, akin to a stalwart steed galloping to the rescue.

This narrative takes us through the uncharted territories of AI within cyber defence, elucidating its manifold advantages, imperfections, and the ethical intricacies it confronts. With a contemplative and analytical approach, we delve into AI’s pivotal role in fortifying our digital bulwarks, where its influence is as profound as a newly appointed Inspector General of Police outlawing certain activities. Thus, let us embark on this journey with the precision and gravitas this subject demands.

I. The Evolving Cyber Threat Landscape

Within this complex digital ecosystem, we confront a rapidly evolving cyber threat landscape. It is a space where threats encompass a diverse spectrum, from sophisticated state-sponsored espionage to the proliferation of financially motivated cybercrime. As our reliance on technology deepens, the potential vulnerabilities multiply, and adversaries continue to adapt to exploit them.

Consider, for instance, the alarming rise of ransomware attacks, where cybercriminals encrypt vital data and demand ransoms for its release. These attacks are characterised by their audacity and often result in significant financial losses and reputational damage for targeted organisations. In response, the need for effective and efficient cyber defences has never been more urgent.

II. The Role of AI in Cybersecurity

In this turbulent landscape, the emergence of Artificial Intelligence is a beacon of hope. AI, a technology synonymous with machine learning, predictive analytics, and automated decision-making, holds the potential to revolutionise cybersecurity. By harnessing the capabilities of AI, organisations can attain a new level of proactive defence, shielding themselves against the ceaseless barrage of threats.

AI brings to the fore the power of predictive analysis. With the ability to process colossal datasets, it can identify patterns, anomalies, and potential vulnerabilities faster and more accurately than human analysts. AI-enhanced threat detection systems serve as ever-watchful sentinels capable of discerning the slightest hint of suspicious activity amidst digital noise.

III. Benefits of AI in Cyber Defense

The advantages of incorporating AI into cybersecurity are manifold. Foremost among them is real-time threat analysis. AI-driven systems can instantly identify deviations from established baselines, raising red flags before threats can fully manifest. Moreover, AI excels in automation, streamlining routine tasks such as patch management and security updates.

Consider, for instance, an organisation’s ability to preemptively detect a zero-day exploit—previously unknown vulnerabilities—before they are weaponised. AI-equipped defences can respond nimbly and effectively, mitigating potential damage before it unfolds.

IV. AI-Powered Threat Detection

One of AI’s most prominent roles in cybersecurity is threat detection. It operates as a digital bloodhound, sniffing out nefarious activity with unerring precision. AI can analyse network traffic in real time, swiftly identifying unusual behaviours that might elude human scrutiny. This swiftness is crucial when it comes to averting potentially devastating breaches.

As an example, consider the ability of AI to detect subtle signs of an advanced persistent threat (APT) within an organisation’s network. These long-term, stealthy infiltrations, often orchestrated by nation-state actors, require vigilance that only AI can maintain consistently.

V. AI in Incident Response

Beyond detection, AI also plays a pivotal role in incident response. When a cyberattack breaches the digital ramparts, time becomes a critical factor in minimising damage. AI-driven systems excel in quickly analysing security incidents determining their severity, scope, and impact.

Imagine an organisation facing a data breach. AI can rapidly ascertain the breach’s scale, pinpointing affected systems and identifying the compromised data. This expedites containment and recovery efforts, ultimately reducing the harm inflicted.

VI. Challenges and Limitations of AI in Cybersecurity

However, the employment of AI in cybersecurity has its challenges. False positives, where benign activities are incorrectly flagged as threats, pose a persistent concern. Ongoing human oversight and validation remains paramount to avoid erroneous actions that may disrupt legitimate operations.

Additionally, the ethical implications of AI in cybersecurity merit consideration. The potential for bias within AI models and collecting sensitive data for threat analysis necessitates a vigilant commitment to responsible and transparent AI practices.

VII. Ethical and Privacy Concerns

As the deployment of AI in cybersecurity proliferates, we must navigate the ethical labyrinth it entails. Gathering and analysing data necessary for AI’s efficacy often intersects with privacy concerns. Striking a balance between data security and individual privacy is a delicate tightrope organisations must tread.

It is essential to ponder the implications of relying on AI for threat analysis, especially when it involves personal or sensitive data. How do we ensure the ethical use of AI, safeguarding the privacy and rights of individuals while simultaneously protecting against cyber threats?

VIII. Implementing AI in Cybersecurity:

For organisations, integrating AI into their cybersecurity strategy is a strategic imperative. Implementing AI-powered defences should be holistic, encompassing not only detection and response but also vulnerability assessment, threat intelligence, and secure software development practices.

A strategic plan for AI adoption must include selecting the right technology, training personnel, and continually adapting to the evolving threat landscape. Collaboration between AI systems and human experts is the linchpin to effective cybersecurity.

IX. Case Studies

To elucidate the tangible impact of AI in cybersecurity, consider the case of a multinational financial institution. By deploying AI-driven systems, this organisation achieved remarkable gains in threat detection and response. Incidents that once took hours to identify are now resolved in minutes, minimising financial losses and safeguarding its reputation.

Another noteworthy example is a government agency tasked with protecting critical infrastructure. Through the judicious use of AI, it has successfully thwarted numerous cyberattacks, including those orchestrated by well-funded state actors. This case underscores the potential of AI to defend against even the most formidable adversaries.

Conclusion

In this era of relentless cyber threats, the emergence of AI as a go-to defender stands as a testament to the transformative power of technology. It is a digital sentinel, tirelessly vigilant in its mission to safeguard the virtual landscapes we inhabit.

The benefits of AI in cybersecurity are evident, from real-time threat analysis to expedited incident response. However, we must navigate the challenges, ethical dilemmas, and privacy concerns accompanying this technological advance.

As we conclude this exploration, it is evident that AI has emerged as a formidable ally in the ongoing battle for digital security. But, like any innovation, its effectiveness is maximised when combined with the wisdom, discernment, and ethical stewardship of human defenders. The marriage of AI and human expertise is the modern frontier of cybersecurity, a dynamic equilibrium poised to redefine the landscape of digital defence.

7 Min. Read//by

6 Ways WatchGuard Can Keep Hackers Away From Your Business

Ways to prevent hackers

Table of Content

  1. The Consequences of Cyber Attack
  2. Hacker Apocalypse
  3. It’s Coming Home
  4. Introducing WatchGuard
  5. Multi-Factor Authentication
  6. Don’t Click That Link
  7. Invest in Security Software
  8. Training Training Training
  9. Encryption is Key
  10. Watch Your Employees

A couple of years ago, a friend of mine, a young versatile entrepreneur, had launched a revolutionary financial product to bridge the credit gap for the unbanked. His product gained incredible traction in the first year with over 100,000 users downloading the app and a million naira in processing.

Unfortunately, a chink was found in the company’s armoury unexpectedly halting my friend’s upward trajectory. The company’s database was hacked, wiping out its entire financial records and customer base.

What is a Cyber Attack?

A cyberattack is an attempt to steal, alter, or destroy a specified target by hacking into a susceptible system. According to Wikipedia, cyberattacks can range from installing spyware on a personal computer to attempting to destroy the infrastructure of entire nations.

The Consequences of CyberAttack

Twenty one years into a much more digitized century, a million and one online tools have popped up for big and small companies to optimize regular work processes with.

The cost incurred from a cyberattack or a data breach is mind-blowing. According to a report from Atlas VPN, over $1trillion (N504 trillion) was spent on cybersecurity or given up as a result of a cyberattack in 2020 (this cost was exacerbated by the COVID 19 pandemic).

And this is not abating any time soon. Cybersecurity Ventures, a cybersecurity research firm, expects global cybercrime costs to grow by 15 per cent per year over the next five years, reaching $10.5 trillion annually by 2025 (more than 10x the expected GDP of Nigeria in 2025).

Hackerpocalypse

These staggering stats only point to one thing; companies all over the world are losing the cyberwar to hackers, most especially small and medium-sized corporations where it is estimated that 60 per cent go out of business within six months of falling victim to a data breach or cyber attack.

Already, 1 in 6 companies pays a ransom to hackers according to the annual Hiscox Cyber Readiness Report.

READ: Top Reports On Data Security Issues In 2020

It’s Coming Home

Back home in Nigeria, the statistics are grim as well. According to a British software and hardware company report, Nigerian companies recorded the second-highest percentage (86% were targeted by hackers) of cyberattacks worldwide behind India last year. In 2019, a report by Serianu, an IT Services and Consulting firm, Nigeria lost $649 million (N327.1 billion) to cybercrime.

This shows that Nigeria, and in extension, Africa isn’t insulated from this ongoing cyberwar. Africa is increasingly the target of cyber espionage, making it imperative for businesses across the continent to find effective ways to protect their assets from would-be hackers.

Introducing WatchGuard

Founded with a vision to make enterprise-grade security accessible to businesses of all sizes, WatchGuard has consistently pioneered innovations that empower organizations to navigate the digital realm with confidence. Their suite of solutions is meticulously crafted to address the multifaceted challenges posed by modern cyber threats. From advanced firewall protection that acts as the first line of defense against intrusions to secure Wi-Fi connectivity solutions that ensure safe data transmission, WatchGuard’s offerings are designed to fortify businesses at every touchpoint.

Furthermore, WatchGuard’s commitment to excellence extends beyond mere product offerings. They continuously invest in research and development, staying abreast of emerging threats and evolving security paradigms. Their holistic approach to cybersecurity encompasses not just proactive threat detection but also actionable insights, empowering businesses to preemptively address vulnerabilities before they escalate into full-blown breaches.

In essence, WatchGuard is more than just a cybersecurity provider; it’s a strategic ally, a guardian that stands sentinel, ensuring that businesses can harness the power of the digital age without compromising on security. As we delve deeper into this article, we will explore six pivotal ways WatchGuard’s comprehensive solutions can serve as the linchpin of your organization’s cybersecurity strategy, fortifying your defenses and ushering in a new era of digital resilience.

Here are 6 easy ways businesses can avoid being hacked:

1. Multi-Factor Authentication

The easiest and most popular way to breach a company’s backend is through password theft. According to a 2020 Verizon data report, 81% of the total number of breaches leveraged stolen or weak passwords. Also, in a breach report done in 2019, over 1 million passwords are stolen every day. What’s worse is most hackers do the bare minimum to hack these passwords. When it comes to password security, all a hacker needs is an employee’s insistence on being the weak link (you know what they say about the weakest link?).

Thank goodness there are ways a company can guard against such monstrous vulnerabilities and one of them is the use of Multifactor Authentication like Google and Microsoft Authenticator to help stave off would-be snoopers. In addition, employers can put in place second-level security protection like tokens and biometrics for their employees.

2. Don’t Click That Link

Employees are daily bombarded with emails, but quite a lot of them are intended to steal sensitive information. This is called phishing, which tricks victims into revealing vital and personal information to the attacker. Phishing attacks are increasingly becoming the norm. A 2019 Verizon Data Breach Investigation Report estimated that 94% of malware are delivered via email while in a 2019 report done by Symantec Internet Security Threat Report, 48% of email attacks are office files.

This makes it imperative for businesses to adopt anti-phishing strategies to guard against regular phishing attacks. Some of these strategies could include using more sophisticated anti-phishing filters, user training for employees to recognize phishing attempts and deal with them immediately, setting up firewalls and security measures.

Most importantly, employees and business owners should learn NOT to click on a link or download any file until sure!

3. Invest in Security Software

ways to prevent hackers

Investing in cybersecurity software and firms is a no-brainer for businesses and organizations looking for a holistic approach to protect their data, especially in a year where global spending on cybersecurity is expected to exceed $1 trillion. This is more pertinent for small businesses as they are more prone to data breaches.

A trusted anti-spyware will limit a company’s exposure to snoopers by quickly detecting malicious applications.

4. Training Training Training!

You can spend all the gazillion dollars you have on anti-spyware software but if your employees aren’t versatile enough to quickly detect or identify malicious links or are careless with their company’s credentials, your business will always be susceptible to cyberattacks.

According to an IBM study, over 95% of cybersecurity breaches are due to non-IT-related human error. This means for every 10 breaches that occur in a company, only 0.5 are due to non-human error.

This makes training of employees in basic cybersecurity very imperative. Employees must understand what a malicious attack looks like and must be careful enough not to disclose confidential details to third parties.

5. Encryption is the Key

Except you are trying to cyber spy on North Korea or into the espionage business in general, you don’t need high-level complex encryption to protect your business from cyber-attacks. However, you still need standard level encryption for your data and entire work process to keep the low life, online snoopers, away.

If you don’t already know, encryption is the process of converting information or data into a code, especially to prevent unauthorized access. Encryption plays its most important role when two parties intend to exchange confidential information across digital platforms.

Think of it as Harry Potter’s invisibility cloak or switching on stealth mode in the middle of a splinter cell mission. Your messages will travel right through the noses of ill-intentioned parties and stay undetected.

6. Watch Your Employees!

Your employees are the heartbeat of the company. On the flip side, they can also act as the death knell to a company by contributing, either deliberately or inadvertently, to its downfall through cyberattacks.

To guard against this, avoid/limit the sharing of very sensitive data to your staff. If you must share this data, ensure you plug all potential leakages. If possible, create a sort of ‘Watch System’ for your staff, but this must not impugn their rights to privacy.

Most importantly, put a premium on employing the right and trusted person who will do nothing to sabotage your business which includes subjecting it to cyber hacks.

Conclusion

In wrapping up, it’s essential to confront a stark reality: can your business endure a cyberattack without crumbling in its wake? If your response leans towards uncertainty or hesitant affirmation, it’s time to consider implementing the cybersecurity solutions highlighted in this article. Fortunately, all these solutions are within reach, courtesy of WatchGuard. Their expansive range of offerings equips businesses with the formidable defenses needed amidst today’s unpredictable digital landscape. As you navigate your organization’s cybersecurity trajectory, recognize that choosing WatchGuard means more than embracing technology; it signifies an investment in tranquility, resilience, and envisioning a future where your enterprise flourishes, untouched by the perils of cyber threats.

Don’t leave your business’s security to chance. Click here to discover how WatchGuard can tailor a solution to fit your specific needs and fortify your defenses against cyber threats. Your business’s future deserves the best protection.

8 Min. Read//by

How Businesses Can Remain Profitable and Secure in the Cloud

Introduction

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, cloud computing has become an integral part of how businesses operate and deliver value to their customers. The cloud offers unprecedented advantages, such as scalability, flexibility, and cost-efficiency, enabling organizations to optimize their operations and drive innovation. However, as businesses embrace the cloud, they must navigate the challenges associated with data security, privacy, and financial risks.

Maintaining profitability while ensuring the security of sensitive information is a critical concern for businesses operating in the cloud. While cloud platforms provide powerful tools and infrastructure, they also introduce new vulnerabilities and potential threats that organizations must address proactively. This article will delve into strategies and best practices for businesses to achieve profitability and security in the cloud, with a specific focus on Google Cloud Platform (GCP).

By leveraging cloud platforms like GCP effectively, businesses can unlock growth opportunities, expand their market reach, and improve operational efficiency. GCP offers a comprehensive suite of services tailored to meet the diverse needs of organizations, including scalable computing resources, advanced data analytics tools, and robust security features.

However, amidst the benefits, businesses must ensure the security of their data and systems. Data breaches, unauthorized access, and compliance violations can have severe consequences, including financial losses and reputational damage. Therefore, implementing robust security measures, adhering to compliance requirements, and following industry best practices are essential for businesses to thrive in the cloud securely.

In the following sections, we will explore strategies for leveraging GCP to drive profitability, focusing on cost optimization, data analytics, and scalability. We will also delve into key security considerations, including identity and access management, data encryption, disaster recovery, and compliance. By implementing these strategies and prioritizing security, businesses can unlock the full potential of the cloud while safeguarding their valuable assets.

I. Understanding Cloud Computing and its Impact on Businesses

Cloud computing has transformed the business landscape by providing on-demand access to computing resources and services over the Internet. Businesses no longer need to invest heavily in on-premises infrastructure, as cloud platforms offer a pay-as-you-go model, allowing them to scale resources up or down based on their needs.

Cloud computing has a significant impact on businesses by improving efficiency and reducing operational costs. With cloud platforms, organizations can quickly provide and deploy applications, leverage advanced data analytics and machine learning tools, and enhance collaboration and productivity through cloud-based communication and project management tools. Additionally, the cloud enables businesses to reach a global audience and expand their market presence without significant infrastructure investments.

However, the adoption of cloud computing introduces new challenges. Data security, privacy concerns, and financial risks are among the top concerns for businesses migrating to the cloud. Organizations must understand these challenges and implement effective strategies to address them.

II. Leveraging Google Cloud Platform for Profitability

Google Cloud Platform (GCP) offers a comprehensive suite of cloud services that businesses can leverage to enhance profitability. Here are some key strategies to consider:

  1. Cost Optimization

To ensure profitability in the cloud, businesses need to optimize their costs. GCP provides various tools and services to help organizations achieve cost efficiency. Right-sizing resources to match demand, utilizing auto-scaling and managed services, and adopting serverless computing are some of the strategies that can significantly reduce infrastructure costs.

By analyzing usage patterns and leveraging GCP’s cost management tools, businesses can identify areas of optimization and make informed decisions about resource allocation. Regularly monitoring and adjusting resource utilization based on demand can lead to substantial cost savings.

  1. Data Analytics and Insights

Data analytics is a powerful tool that can drive profitability and inform business decisions. GCP offers robust data analytics and machine learning services, such as BigQuery and Data Studio, that enable businesses to derive actionable insights from large datasets.

By leveraging GCP’s data analytics capabilities, businesses can analyze customer behaviour, identify market trends, optimize marketing campaigns, and make data-driven decisions to improve their products or services. This can lead to increased customer satisfaction, better targeting of resources, and improved operational efficiency.

  1. Scalability and Agility

Scalability and agility are essential factors for businesses to remain competitive in the cloud. GCP’s global infrastructure allows organizations to scale resources quickly to meet fluctuating demands. By leveraging GCP’s managed Kubernetes service, businesses can efficiently manage containerized applications, enabling rapid deployment, scaling, and resource optimization.

Implementing a microservices architecture can also enhance scalability and agility. Breaking down applications into smaller, independent services allows businesses to develop and deploy new features quickly, improve fault tolerance, and scale components independently as needed.

III. Ensuring Security in the Cloud

While the cloud offers various benefits, security remains a top concern for businesses. Implementing robust security measures is crucial to protect sensitive data and maintain business continuity. Consider the following best practices:

  1. Identity and Access Management

Implementing strong identity and access management (IAM) practices is fundamental to maintaining security in the cloud. This includes implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA) for user accounts, assigning appropriate access controls and permissions, and regularly reviewing and revoking unnecessary access privileges. GCP’s IAM capabilities provide fine-grained control over user access to resources and help ensure that only authorized individuals can access sensitive data and applications.

  1. Data Encryption and Protection

Encrypting data at rest and in transit is vital to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access. GCP provides encryption mechanisms that businesses can leverage to encrypt data at various levels, including data stored in databases, object storage, and during transmission. Utilizing key management services offered by GCP ensures secure key storage and management.

Implementing data loss prevention (DLP) mechanisms help prevent unauthorized data leakage by monitoring and classifying sensitive information. This enables businesses to enforce data protection policies and reduce the risk of data breaches.

  1. Regular Data Backups and Disaster Recovery

Data loss can have severe consequences for businesses. Implementing automated backup processes and testing and validating disaster recovery plans are essential for data protection. GCP provides tools and services that enable organizations to implement robust backup and recovery strategies. Regularly backing up critical data and storing backups in off-site locations ensures that businesses can quickly recover in the event of data loss or system failure.

  1. Security Monitoring and Incident Response

Proactive security monitoring and incident response capabilities are crucial to identifying and mitigating potential threats. Implementing a robust security monitoring system that continuously monitors the cloud infrastructure and applications can help detect and respond to security incidents promptly.

Establishing incident response protocols and conducting regular drills ensures that businesses are well-prepared to handle security incidents effectively. Threat intelligence and vulnerability management practices can help identify and address potential security risks proactively, reducing the likelihood of security breaches.

IV. Compliance and Regulatory Considerations

Businesses must adhere to various compliance and regulatory requirements when operating in the cloud. Failure to comply with these standards can result in significant financial penalties and reputational damage. Consider the following:

  1. Cloud Provider Compliance

When selecting a cloud provider, businesses should choose one that maintains compliance certifications and aligns with the necessary regulatory requirements. GCP, for example, adheres to numerous compliance frameworks, including GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI DSS. Understanding the shared responsibility model is crucial, as it clarifies the division of responsibilities between the cloud provider and the business.

  1. Data Governance and Privacy

To ensure compliance with data governance and privacy regulations, businesses should establish policies and procedures to safeguard customer data. Obtaining the necessary consent and permissions for data processing is crucial. Regularly reviewing and updating privacy policies to reflect changing regulations and ensuring transparency in data handling practices can help build trust with customers and regulatory bodies.

Conclusion

While cloud computing presents businesses with tremendous opportunities, it also requires a diligent focus on profitability and security. By leveraging the Google Cloud Platform (GCP) effectively and implementing robust security measures, businesses can maximize profitability while ensuring data confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

Strategies such as cost optimization, leveraging data analytics and insights, and embracing scalability and agility through GCP enable businesses to gain a competitive edge in the cloud environment. Additionally, implementing strong security practices, including identity and access management, data encryption, regular backups, security monitoring, and incident response, ensures that businesses can protect their assets and respond effectively to security threats.

Moreover, businesses must consider compliance and regulatory requirements specific to their industry and geographic location when operating in the cloud. By selecting a cloud provider that meets necessary compliance standards and establishing appropriate data governance and privacy policies, businesses can maintain compliance and mitigate legal risks.

In conclusion, with the right strategies, a focus on security, and adherence to compliance requirements, businesses can thrive in the cloud environment. By effectively leveraging cloud platforms, such as Google Cloud Platform, businesses can unlock new growth opportunities, drive profitability, and ensure a secure and resilient digital presence.

8 Min. Read//by

5 Revenue-Boosting Solutions for Your Business

As a business owner, you’re always looking for ways to boost revenue and stay ahead of the competition. You’ve probably tried all sorts of strategies, from marketing campaigns to sales incentives, but have you considered investing in technology solutions? That’s right, technology can be a game-changer for your business, and in this article, we’re going to explore eight revenue-boosting solutions that can help you take your business to the next level.

Before we dive into the specifics, let’s take a moment to talk about the importance of technology in today’s business landscape. We live in an age where technology is omnipresent, from the smartphones we carry in our pockets to the software solutions we use to manage our businesses. Technology has revolutionized the way we work, communicate, and interact with our customers. It has made our lives easier, more efficient, and more productive. It has also opened up new business opportunities to innovate, grow, and succeed.

However, with the benefits of technology come new challenges, particularly in the realm of cybersecurity. As businesses become more reliant on technology, they become more vulnerable to cyber threats. Cybercriminals are constantly finding new ways to exploit vulnerabilities in software and networks, and businesses need to be prepared to defend against these threats. That’s why cybersecurity is one of the vital revenue-boosting solutions we’ll be exploring in this article.

But cybersecurity is just the tip of the iceberg. Technology can help your business in many other ways, from automating processes to improving customer service. That’s why we’ll be exploring a range of solutions, from cloud platforms to banking software, that can help you optimize your business operations and boost revenue.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of technology solutions and explore how they can help your business thrive.

Fortinet

In today’s digital landscape, cybersecurity is more important than ever. Businesses of all sizes face a range of cyber threats, from phishing attacks to ransomware and malware. These threats can have a significant impact on your business, ranging from lost productivity to reputational damage and financial loss. That’s where Fortinet comes in.

Fortinet is a cybersecurity solution that offers a range of tools to help protect your business from cyber threats. The company provides a range of products and services, including firewalls, secure access solutions, endpoint protection, and more. With Fortinet, you can leverage a range of advanced security features to keep your business safe and secure.

One of the key features of Fortinet is its ability to provide comprehensive security for your network. The company offers a range of firewalls that are designed to protect your network from cyber threats, including next-generation firewalls that use advanced technology to identify and block even the most sophisticated cyber attacks. Fortinet’s firewalls are also designed to provide granular control over your network traffic, allowing you to block specific types of traffic or restrict access to certain websites or applications.

In addition to firewalls, Fortinet offers a range of other security solutions that can help protect your business from cyber threats. For example, the company offers secure access solutions that allow you to control who has access to your network and data. This can help prevent unauthorized access and protect your business from data breaches.

Fortinet’s endpoint protection solutions are also designed to help protect your business from malware and other threats. The solution offers a range of endpoint protection tools, including antivirus software, anti-spyware software, and more. These tools can help protect your business from a range of threats, including viruses, Trojans, worms, and other types of malware.

By implementing Fortinet solutions, businesses can protect their digital assets from cyber threats, which can help prevent costly data breaches and other security incidents. This, in turn, can help businesses avoid the financial losses that often result from such incidents.

Barracuda

Another comprehensive cybersecurity solution to consider is Barracuda. Barracuda is a cloud-enabled cybersecurity solution that provides businesses with a range of tools to protect against cyber threats. The company offers a range of products and services, including firewalls, email security, web application security, and more. With Barracuda, you can leverage advanced security features to protect your business from cyber threats.

One of the key features of Barracuda is its cloud-enabled security solutions, which allow businesses to deploy and manage their cybersecurity solutions easily. With Barracuda’s cloud solutions, you don’t need to worry about complex on-premises hardware, as the company takes care of everything for you. This makes it easy for businesses to manage their cybersecurity solutions, while also providing advanced protection against cyber threats.

Barracuda’s firewall solutions are also designed to provide businesses with advanced protection against cyber threats. The company offers a range of firewalls that use advanced technology to identify and block cyber threats in real time. Additionally, Barracuda’s firewalls provide granular control over your network traffic, enabling you to block specific types of traffic or restrict access to certain websites or applications.

Barracuda’s web application security solutions are also designed to help protect your business from cyber threats that target your web applications. These solutions use advanced technology to identify and block cyber threats, such as SQL injection attacks, cross-site scripting attacks, and more. With Barracuda’s web application security solutions, you can rest assured that your business is protected from cyber threats that originate from your web applications.

One way Barracuda can help businesses improve their revenue is by increasing their online visibility. With Barracuda’s web application security solutions, companies can ensure that their web applications are always up and running, which helps to improve their online visibility. When customers can access a business’s website and web applications efficiently, it increases the chances of them engaging with the business, leading to potential sales.

Google Cloud Platform

Google Cloud Platform (GCP) is a powerful cloud computing platform that provides businesses with a range of tools to manage their computing resources, store data, and build applications. With GCP, businesses can take advantage of Google’s vast infrastructure and powerful tools to streamline their operations and accelerate their growth.

One of the key benefits of GCP is its scalability. With GCP, businesses can easily scale their computing resources up or down based on their needs, allowing them to manage their costs effectively. This is particularly useful for businesses that experience sudden surges in demand or that need to scale their operations quickly.

GCP also offers businesses a range of tools to store and manage their data securely. With GCP’s data storage solutions, businesses can store their data in the cloud and access it from anywhere in the world. This makes it easy for businesses to share data and collaborate on projects, even if their employees are located in different parts of the world.

Another advantage of GCP is its ability to support multiple programming languages and platforms. This makes it easy for businesses to build and deploy applications on GCP, regardless of the programming language or platform they use.

Moreover, GCP’s machine-learning capabilities allow businesses to leverage the power of artificial intelligence and machine learning to improve their operations. With GCP’s machine learning tools, businesses can analyze large amounts of data quickly and make data-driven decisions that can help them grow their revenue and improve their customer experience.

One way GCP can help businesses increase their revenue is by providing them with a range of powerful tools and services to help them better understand their customers. With GCP’s big data and analytics tools, businesses can collect and analyze vast amounts of data to gain insights into customer behaviour, preferences, and trends. This information can be used to optimise marketing campaigns, improve customer experiences, and ultimately drive revenue growth.

Amazon Web Services

Like Google Cloud Platform, Amazon Web Services (AWS) has also gained significant popularity among companies. AWS is a comprehensive cloud platform that offers a wide range of cloud computing services to help businesses reduce costs, improve operational efficiency, and ultimately increase their revenue.

One of the key advantages of AWS is its scalability. Businesses can easily scale their operations up or down depending on their needs without having to worry about the infrastructure. This makes AWS an excellent choice for businesses that want to grow quickly and scale their operations without having to invest in costly infrastructure.

In addition to scalability, AWS also offers a range of other services that can help businesses increase their revenue. For instance, AWS offers a range of data storage and management services that can help businesses manage their data more efficiently, making it easier to extract insights and improve decision-making. AWS also offers a range of machine learning and artificial intelligence services that businesses can use to automate repetitive tasks, improve efficiency, and drive revenue growth.

Plug

Another way businesses can increase their revenue is by using innovative no-code platforms like Plug. This no-code platform empowers organizations to build custom business applications without having to write a single line of code or rely on software developers.

With Plug, businesses can automate several critical internal and external operations, allowing them to streamline processes and improve workflow efficiency. By enabling businesses to build reliable applications in the shortest possible time, Plug empowers organizations to rapidly respond to changing market demands and quickly adapt to new business opportunities.

The best part of Plug is that business applications can be developed directly by people within the organization who understand the processes and workflow. This means businesses no longer have to rely on external developers or specialized IT staff to build custom applications, saving them both time and money.

Conclusion

There are many powerful tech solutions available to businesses today that can help them increase their revenue and drive growth. From security solutions like Fortinet and Barracuda to cloud platforms like Google Cloud Platform and Amazon Web Services, businesses have a wide range of options to choose from.

At Descasio, we are committed to helping businesses leverage these solutions to drive revenue growth and stay ahead of the competition. Our team of experts can help businesses identify the best tech solutions to meet their unique needs, deploy these solutions, and provide ongoing support and maintenance to ensure they continue to deliver value over time.

Whether you need to enhance your network security, migrate to the cloud, or develop custom business applications, Descasio has the expertise and experience to help you achieve your goals. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help deploy these solutions and boost your business revenue.

9 Min. Read//by

6 Importance of Managed Security Service Providers

Managed security services in computing are network security services that have been contracted out to a service provider. A business offering such a service is referred to as a managed security service provider. The origins of MSSPs can be found in the mid-to-late-1990s Internet Service Providers.

An MSSP (managed security service provider) offers outsourced management and monitoring of security tools and devices. Managed firewall, intrusion detection, virtual private network, vulnerability screening, and antiviral services are examples of common services.

Why Managed Security Service?

Recent industry research indicates that while 82% of IT professionals have either collaborated with or want to engage with a managed security service provider, the majority of firms (74%) manage IT security in-house.

Businesses look to managed security services providers to help them cope with the daily pressures they experience in relation to information security, such as targeted malware, customer data theft, a lack of skilled workers, and resource limitations.

The methodical approach to managing a company’s security requirements is known as managed security services or MSS. The services may be carried out internally or contracted out to a service provider that manages the network and information system security of other businesses.

A managed security service’s duties include managing firewalls and intrusion detection systems round-the-clock, supervising patch management and upgrades, conducting security audits and assessments, and responding to crises. To assist in organizing and directing the procedures involved, a variety of vendors offer a variety of solutions. This relieves administrators of some of the grunt work associated with doing the tasks manually.

Here are six reasons why you need to employ the services of a Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP):

1. MSSPs Have Vast Experience and Expertise in Cybersecurity

Managed security service companies are very knowledgeable about both the most prevalent and sophisticated cybersecurity problems that most businesses face. They are more flexible and adaptable because of the additional expertise they obtained from managing security issues for other businesses across other industries. The expertise and experiences MSSPs have gained over many years are immediately useful to you.

2. Utilizing Cutting-Edge and Innovative Technology

Nearly every company has put comprehensive security measures in place, but even the best-of-breed technology has some vulnerabilities that must be fixed if a reliable solution is to be achieved.

In order to maintain your security posture, a premium managed security solutions do more than merely use their own technologies. They gather information and reports from a variety of sources, standardize it, and then use it proactively to identify threats and close weaknesses. They additionally employ technology to assess corporate security posture, report gap analysis, system controls, and key vulnerabilities—which are frequently utilized by cybercriminals to breach even the most protected businesses.

3. Prompt incident response and real-time monitoring

Finding a breach after the fact can be disastrous for companies that handle a lot of confidential or proprietary data. Managed security solutions involve ongoing monitoring rather than sporadic checks. They can identify abnormalities as they occur with ongoing monitoring. They even use a combination of manual and automated penetration testing to evaluate the firewall’s strength.

4. Reduced Alert Fatigue

Zero false positives are one of the most important advantages of managed security services. Security experts have to deal with multiple cybersecurity alerts every day that come from different security tools that have been set up in their firms. The notifications are sometimes ineffective or lack the necessary details to prompt action. The likelihood that the true threat may go undetected rises as a result of this kind of false positive.

5. Scaling up and Down is easy

The flexibility of managed security services is one of its main benefits. It is available for demand-based subscriptions. With a staff that is already qualified and experienced to handle the fluctuating volume of business, it enables organizations to swiftly expand.

6. Cost-effective approach to security

For small businesses, maintaining an in-house team with the right levels of experience is challenging and costly. Investing in the right tools, hardware, and software that are continuously evolving needs expertise and a considerable budget as well. To be on top of the cybersecurity plan and priorities, an organization needs to keep pace with new trends. While cyber threats do not differentiate small businesses and big corporations, the large investment required for the tools and technology may not be easy for small businesses but Managed Security Services can help your business level the playing field with big companies by providing access to top-notch security technology.

Conclusion

Considering the increasing number of IT security threats, it is crucial to have robust security solutions to protect your assets. If you are lacking in security, consider MSSP. Carefully considering client testimonials, industry certifications, and references with their clients can come in handy here. Descasio offers Managed Security Services with a comprehensive suite of cybersecurity and IT risk assurance services to detect, prevent, and proactively respond to security threats. Talk to our experts to know more.

A top-notch security service provider will go above and beyond, ensuring security and performance in ways you might not even be aware of. The Sense Of Security is the main advantage of using a managed security solution.

5 Min. Read//by
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5 Ways to Safeguard Your Business Assets During a Time of Uncertainties

“In the Midst of Chaos, there is also Opportunity”

Sun Tzu

The words of Sun Tzu above, legendary Chinese master military strategist, ring eerily true with the world seemingly in turmoil at the moment. 

The Ukraine – Russia war is currently putting (no pun intended) the entire world rightly in a massive frenzy with businesses across industries affected directly (Russian business owners read Oligarchs who have been barred by Western countries) and indirectly (businesses that are affected by other variables like high gas prices as a result of the war), after just recovering from one of the most devastating pandemics in history. As a result of the war, Oil prices are spiralling out of control, same as commodities like wheat, Russia and Ukraine together exported more than a quarter (25.4%) of wheat in 2019, according to the Observatory of Economic Complexity. 

The story is equally not savoury back home, the price of diesel has more than doubled in the last fortnight. The country is also currently under its usual siege of petrol queues as a result of petrol scarcity. These issues coupled with the country’s mounting debt profile and a spate of insecurities have made it imperative for business owners to start thinking of possible bunkers somewhere to crawl into.

Bunkers aside, how do business owners protect their assets during these wild uncertain times? How would they form a massive moat around their assets and insulate them from this chaos? Not to worry, we’ve put together 5 great ways you can secure these assets and none of them includes hiding somewhere in that bunker.

1. Put it in the Cloud

If you haven’t stored your business’ or company’s assets/data which include important business documents, projects documents, email communications, etc… on the clouds, you could be casting a dark cloud in the long run over your business or company. The concept of storing data in the cloud using cloud computing software has been around with us over the last three decades since the inception of the internet and it has grown astronomical. 

Last year, cloud computing marketing was worth over $370 billion (N153.9 trillion) and is expected to more than double by 2025 with the top three Cloud computing companies (Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud) having a combined market share of about 60%. These staggering stats prove that businesses across all industries are adopting cloud computing technology at a fast pace to safeguard their data, especially during these uncertain times.

Thankfully, we offer cloud computing services to help small and big businesses like yours manage their data and assets more efficiently.

2. Subscribe for That Cybersecurity software Now If You haven’t Yet

One of the most popular tools deployed for modern warfare during a time of uncertainty is cyberwarfare. It’s no surprise the use of cyber warfare tools grew at the height of the pandemic two years ago and is set to continue the upward trajectory as the war in Ukraine rages on. 

Already, it is estimated that almost 60% of small companies go out of business within the first six months according to data gathered by National Cyber Security Alliance, a nonprofit organisation. This is quite telling as hackers tend to focus on startups without the necessary security structure compared to much more entrenched companies. But this is not to say big companies are not susceptible to cyberattacks. 

Making it even more imperative for companies of shapes and sizes to protect their online assets with the best cybersecurity software we have on offer.  

3. Adopt a Digital-first Approach

This is an obvious no brainer, especially in an age where everyone is talking and experimenting with the concepts of having their social identities in a virtual reality world read Metaverse. But the right structure must be put in place for a successful digital-first approach adoption. 

For example, companies that have gone fully remote have put in place the right interactive and collaborative software to aid seamless interaction among employees outside the office. At the moment, no thanks to the pandemic, more than 16% of companies worldwide are fully remote, this is according to a study carried out by Owl Labs in collaboration with Global Workforce Analytics. Some Ukraine based software companies didn’t have their services disrupted by the war as they already had the remote structure in place.

We can help you make that transition if you haven’t hopped on the digital train yet by signing up on this link.

4. Don’t Panic!

So much negativity from tumbling revenue numbers for businesses due to high oil prices to the high cost of commodities like gas, high inflation cost by these growing costs and economic downturn will be aired repeatedly by news outlets across the media like TV and podcasts during these uncertain times. It is very important as a business owner, you practise the art of calmness by switching your focus to other relaxing and meditative activities. You can also visit places with rich natural habitats that will refresh your thought process and improve your emotional intelligence to avoid making rash decisions.  

And remember this as a rule of thumb; whatever choices or decisions you make during these moments, make sure you avoid pushing that panic button! 

5. Diversify Your Assets

This is probably the most essential safeguard of all especially if you want to come out on the other side of these uncertain times smiling. Thankfully, there are so many investment opportunities to try out; from the conventional ones such as stocks and real estate to disruptive ones like cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana and others), the much talked about NFTs and Metaverse. 

There are a million more ways you can diversify your investment, but it is very crucial to note that whichever way(s) you choose to helps you limit your exposure during a time of crisis.

Conclusion

These safeguards are not cast in stones and should not be seen as the only way to protect your assets in a time of chaos, as there are several other means of safeguards. But this article will help in guiding you to make the best decisions for your business during uncertain times.

6 Min. Read//by

12 Powerful Cybersecurity Software To Secure Your Business in 2022

cybersecurity software for business

As a business owner, the cost of not investing in cybersecurity is huge. It’s like leaving your car keys on the ignition with your car doors open in a car park while shopping a few kilometres away. It is estimated that over $6 trillion will be lost annually to cybercrime from 2021. That’s more than the proceeds made from the global trade of all major illegal drugs combined.

Table of Content

  1. Importance of Cybersecurity Software
  2. Barracuda Spam Firewall
  3. Fortinet Security Fabric
  4. Google Cloud Security
  5. Intruder
  6. Syxsense Secure
  7. Proofpoint Email Security
  8. Acunetix
  9. Cisco Application – First Security
  10. Netsparker
  11. Sophos
  12. Vipre
  13. Norton Security

Importance of Cybersecurity Software

You might be thinking that hackers in this clime are not as sophisticated as their destructive peers worldwide. Think again! In the last 10 years, Nigeria has lost up to N5.5trillion ($9.7 billion), that’s an average of N550 billion ($9.7 million) every year! Also, Nigerian companies recorded the second-highest percentage (86%) of cyberattacks worldwide behind India last year.

These staggering and scary statistics show that Nigerian businesses are far from immune to cyberattacks, let alone get attacked. This is why companies must set aside not so large a chunk of money to invest in standard cybersecurity software. It doesn’t just protect your company’s assets and data from being stolen but gives your business a fighting chance to last far longer as 60% of small businesses are expected to go out of business within six months of falling victim to a data breach or cyberattack.

Here are 12 powerful cybersecurity software products you can invest in to secure your business:

READ MORE: 6-ways-to-keep-hackers-away-from-your-business.

Barracuda Spam Firewall

One of the increasingly popular and obnoxious ways to gain access illegally to sensitive information of a company is through malicious emails. This can be prevented by the use of the Barracuda Spam Firewall. Barracuda is one of the most popular cybersecurity companies in the world with a lot of security products geared towards protecting businesses from internal and external threats.

Barracuda cybersecurity software for business

The Spam firewall, connected to the Barracuda security cloud, scans internal and external emails and incoming files using three layers of powerful virus scanning technology. Integrating this security software with your company’s

Fortinet Security Fabric

Most times, hackers attempt to hack into your system simultaneously from all angles. To prevent this, you will need a complex integrated security system like the Fortinet Security Fabric.

Fortinet cybersecurity software for business

The FSF is a complex ecosystem of security networks that continuously assesses the risks and automatically adjusts to provide comprehensive real-time protection across the digital attack surface and cycle. The FSF is a great security solution for large enterprises with a vast and deep system.

Google Cloud Security

One of the most efficient and intelligent means of protecting your entire digital assets is Google Cloud Security. From businesses with a single asset like a YouTube channel to businesses with multiple digital assets, Google Cloud Security guarantees the topmost security.

Google cybersecurity software for business

Google Cloud Security quickly detects and halts cyber threats by deploying different solutions which include Security analytics and operations and Web App and API Protection to protect your business from future attacks. Top organizations like Twitter and Evernote have their assets secured with Google Cloud Security.

You can start with Google Cloud Security for free with $300 free credits available for use.

Intruder

Just as the name suggests, the Intruder software is meant to crash the parties of potential hackers by blocking every pathway to an attack. Used by major brands, Intruder is an online vulnerability scanner that finds cyber security weaknesses in a company’s digital infrastructure, to avoid costly data breaches.

Intruder cybersecurity software for business

It also increases productivity as it frees employees to accomplish other important duties. The cybersecurity company claims to scan as many as 50 potential vulnerabilities delivering comprehensive data that can be used to strengthen the security structure of a company.

The software comes with a 30-day free trial. It also includes three pricing plans; the Essential, Pro and Verified plans.

Syxsense Secure

Another cloud-based vulnerability scanner is the Syxsense Secure which provides end-to-end security scanning and usable insights to prevent cyberattacks from unscrupulous individuals or organizations.

syxsense cybersecurity software

Other features from Syxsense secure include Patch everything; a feature that automatically deploys third-party security patches to secure and support major operating systems, Quarantine Devices to block, isolate and kill infected and malicious processes before they spread, and Collaborate with Ease, a feature that enhances collaboration among the IT and security team.

The key selling point of this cybersecurity solution is the ability to combine all these features into one single cloud console.

Syxsense Secure also comes with a 14-day free trial and two pricing plans which are Syxsense Manage and Syxsense Secure.

Proofpoint Email Security

As earlier alluded to in this article, email remains the most vulnerable source of cyberattack for large and small scale businesses around the world. According to a Trend Micro report, 94% of targeted emails use malicious file attachments as an infection source. Also, 91% of cyberattacks begin with a ‘spear-phishing email, one of the most sophisticated ways cybercriminals steal sensitive information.

Proofpoint cybersecurity software

Hence, the need for a cybersecurity solution like Proofpoint Email Security which deploys Machine Learning enabled technology to catch both known and unknown threats missed by others.

The software also detects and blocks threats that don’t involve malicious payload, such as impostor email—also known as business email compromise (BEC), a favourite for cybercriminals.

There is no visible pricing on its website, but a contact form is available to fill.

Acunetix

Aside from Google Cloud Security which is arguably the most complete web and API security software out there, Acunetix offers a great option for businesses looking to secure their websites, web applications, and APIs. It also offers actionable insights after performing a deep scan of all web pages and complex web applications.

Acunetix cybersecurity software

It is an intuitive and easy-to-use solution with functionalities like scheduling full/incremental scans and seamless integration to other software like Azure and Github.

It can be used by both small businesses and large enterprises. It comes in three pricing plans; standard, premium, and Acunetix 360. A demo can be requested.

Cisco Application – First Security

Most cybersecurity companies tend to offer a one size fits all approach for businesses looking to secure their online and offline assets which might not necessarily speak to the latter’s individual security needs. But Cisco Application – First Security offers different layers of cybersecurity approach that is closer, continuous and adaptive.

Cisco cybersecurity software for business

The different layers or products include Cisco Secure Workload which offers automated protection micro-segmentation based on recommended policies tailored to your applications, Cisco Secure Cloud Analytics which detect and respond to advanced threats across private and public cloud networks, Cisco secure Access which Establish user-device trust and highly secure access to applications, AppDynamics which performs monitoring and deep insight into transaction behaviour and metrics for applications running in public and private cloud environments and finally Cisco Secure Application which prevent and detect application vulnerabilities across your digital business.

The Cisco Application – First security’s adaptability to different cybersecurity needs makes it a go-to choice for big and small enterprises alike.

Netsparker

One of the best cybersecurity automation tools for software companies out there has to be the Netsparker. The tool’s unique dynamic and interactive scanning capabilities are top-notch amongst its peers.

Netsparker cybersecurity software

Netsparker offers features and functionalities for automating the security testing throughout the software development life cycle (SDLC). These features save a huge number of hours for team members, identify vulnerabilities that matter, and help security and development teams get ahead of their workload.

Netsparker claims they consistently identify more vulnerabilities and return fewer false positives than other scanning tools.

Another unique offering from the application is its capacity to perform comprehensive scanning while detecting vulnerabilities within a very short time. It also assists developers with actionable feedback that helps them produce more secure code meaning less work for your security team.

As earlier mentioned, the Netsparker tool is incredible for software companies looking to protect their assets throughout the SDLC.

Sophos

Sophos tagline says it all “Sophos stops Ransomware”. Just the kind of messaging that will get companies chomping at the subscribe button.

Sophos cybersecurity software

The British-based security software company, through its unique security products, offers protection against known and unknown malware, spyware, intrusions, unwanted applications, spam, policy abuse, and data leakage and also provides a comprehensive network access control to businesses.

Some of these products include Sophos XDR which can intercept and investigate threats across endpoints, servers, firewalls, and other data sources, Sophos MTR which automatically neutralizes the most sophisticated threats, Sophos Cloud Optix, Sophos Emails, Sophos Phish Threat, etc.

A free trial is available for businesses looking to test the waters.

Vipre

Viper is one of the oldest security software companies out there, and like new wine in an old bottle, they’ve been able to adapt to the changing cybersecurity landscape to remain one of the go-to security platforms.

Vipre cybersecurity software

They offer comprehensive layered protections that cater to both personal and business needs. Some of the features Vipre offer include simplified solutions to protect businesses from online threats and data risks, an all-inclusive package and scalable pricing, unparalleled protection for email and endpoint security with the help of AI technology, and a fully integrated solution that is easy to deploy and manage.

Vipre business protection which is suitable for large and medium and small scale enterprises alike is available in three pricing plans i.e. Core Defense ($96 per user per year), Edge Defense ($96 per user per year), and Complete Defense ($144 per user per year).

Norton Security

Norton has evolved over the years from being seen as just an antivirus software to an all-inclusive cybersecurity company. In addition to the aforementioned Antivirus, the company offers different cybersecurity solutions such as Virus Removal, Malware Protection, Cloud Backup, Password Manager, and Secure VPN. It also offers an extra layer of protection for gamers, an interesting distinction from the rest on this list.

Norton cybersecurity software

Other features include five-layer protection for recognizing and blocking threats, cloud backup services that can store and protect files and documents, a simple, secure, and smart solution for managing passwords, a secure Norton VPN that helps block hackers from seeing what you do online and a series of Norton 360 plans.

Norton is suitable for all businesses looking for top-level digital protection and provides a 30-day free trial for Antivirus while the price for Norton 360 starts at $9.99 for the first 3 months.

Conclusion

It’s digitally suicidal if you don’t have your online assets protected by any of this cybersecurity software on the list. Thankfully, Descasio has got you covered. We’ve partnered with some of these security companies that can comprehensively secure your entire digital assets at the most favourable pricing.

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