Tag Archives: vulnerability scan

Cybersecurity, IT Support, Technology

Why Should My Business Use Penetration Testing?

Why Should My Business Use Penetration Testing?

Businesses of all sizes face a variety of security threats that can compromise their sensitive data and cripple their operations. To ensure protection against cyberattacks, organisations must adopt proactive measures. One such measure is penetration testing, a vital component of a comprehensive security strategy.

Why should my business use penetration testing?

In an era where cyberattacks are rampant, it’s crucial to take pre-emptive action to identify vulnerabilities in your systems before malicious actors exploit them. Penetration testing, also known as ethical hacking, allows you to simulate real-world attack scenarios and uncover weaknesses that could be leveraged by cybercriminals. By proactively identifying and patching vulnerabilities, you can prevent costly breaches and protect your valuable business assets.

Benefits of Penetration Testing

Comprehensive Security Assessment

An effective penetration test provides a thorough evaluation of your organisation’s security posture. It goes beyond basic vulnerability scanning and examines the resilience of your network, applications and infrastructure. By emulating the techniques used by real attackers, penetration testing uncovers hidden weaknesses that may otherwise go unnoticed.

Early Detection of Vulnerabilities

Identifying vulnerabilities at an early stage is crucial to mitigating potential risks. Penetration testing allows you to detect weaknesses in your systems before they can be exploited. This enables you to address vulnerabilities promptly, reducing the window of opportunity for attackers and minimising potential damage.

Protection of Customer Data

Businesses have a responsibility to protect the personal information entrusted to them and the large amounts of data they hold. A single data breach can lead to severe reputational damage and legal repercussions. Penetration testing assists in identifying vulnerabilities that could expose sensitive customer data, allowing you to then implement the necessary safeguards and ensure compliance with data protection regulations.

Proactive Approach to Security

Taking a proactive stance towards security is important in the ever-evolving threat landscape. Penetration testing allows you to stay one step ahead of potential attackers. By regularly conducting tests and addressing vulnerabilities, you demonstrate a commitment to strong security practices, giving your customers, partners and stakeholders confidence in your business.

Validation of Security Controls

Implementing security controls and measures is not enough if they are not effectively tested and validated. Penetration testing provides an opportunity to assess the effectiveness of your security controls and determine their vulnerability to various cyber threats. This allows you to fine-tune your defences and ensure they are capable of withstanding real-world threats.

Cost Savings in the Long Run

While investing in penetration testing may seem like an added expense, it is a wise investment that can save your business substantial costs in the long run. By proactively addressing vulnerabilities, you mitigate the risk of data breaches, system downtime, legal fines and loss of customer trust. The cost of remediation and recovery from a breach far outweighs the expenses that come with conducting regular penetration tests.

These days where cyber threats are constantly in the news, businesses must take proactive measures to safeguard their data, systems and reputation. Penetration testing offers a powerful solution to identify vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by malicious actors. By conducting regular penetration tests, businesses can enhance their security framework, protect sensitive customer data and demonstrate a commitment to robust security practices.

Investing in penetration testing is an investment in the long-term success and resilience of your business. It allows you to stay one step ahead of potential attackers, detect vulnerabilities early and save costs associated with data breaches and recovery efforts. So, why should your business use penetration testing? The answer is simple: to fortify your defences, protect your valuable assets and ensure the trust and confidence of your customers.

FAQs about Penetration Testing

  • What is penetration testing?

Penetration testing is a proactive security assessment technique that simulates real-world attacks on a company’s network, systems or applications. It aims to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses that could be exploited by malicious actors.

  • How often should penetration testing be conducted?

The frequency of penetration testing depends on various factors, such as the nature of your business, industry regulations and the level of risk you face. Generally, it is recommended to conduct penetration testing at least once a year or whenever significant changes are made to your systems or infrastructure.

  • Can’t we rely on automated vulnerability scanners instead?

While automated vulnerability scanners have their place in a security strategy, they cannot replicate the ingenuity and creativity of human attackers. Penetration testing involves skilled ethical hackers who employ manual techniques to uncover complex vulnerabilities that automated scanners might miss. It provides a more comprehensive assessment of your security systems.

  • Will penetration testing disrupt our business operations?

Penetration testing is carefully planned and executed to minimise disruptions to your business operations. Ethical hackers work closely with your organisation to ensure that testing is conducted at convenient times and in a controlled manner. They prioritise the security of your systems while minimising any potential impact on day-to-day activities.

  • How long does a penetration test typically take?

The duration of a penetration test varies depending on the size and complexity of your systems. It can range from a few days to several weeks. The ethical hacking team will provide you with a clear timeline and keep you informed throughout the process.

  • What happens after the penetration test is completed?

After the penetration test is completed, you will receive a detailed report outlining the vulnerabilities identified, their potential impact and recommended remediation actions. This report serves as a valuable roadmap for improving your security posture. The ethical hacking team can also provide guidance and support in implementing the necessary measures to address the identified vulnerabilities.

Cybersecurity, IT Support, MSP, Strategy, Technology

Why a Quarterly Business Review is important

Why a Quarterly Business Review is important

In our rapidly evolving business landscape, staying ahead of the competition requires constant adaptation and optimisation. As a business owner, you need to regularly assess your operations, identify areas for improvement and develop strategies to drive growth. This is where a QBR (Quarterly Business Review) from an MSP (Managed Service Provider) comes into play

What is a QBR?

A QBR is a comprehensive review conducted by an MSP, usually every quarter, to evaluate the performance, progress and alignment of your business objectives with the implemented IT strategies. It goes beyond simply analysing data and metrics; it is an opportunity to discuss challenges, uncover opportunities and strengthen the relationship between you and your MSP. Smaller businesses may only receive a QBR once or twice a year but ask your MSP what their processes are around this.

A QBR is not just a mundane business review; it holds significant emotional weight. It evokes feelings of security, reassurance and confidence in the path your business is taking. Knowing that experts are analysing your performance, identifying areas of improvement and providing guidance instils a sense of trust and peace of mind.

The QBR experience is an opportunity to have open, honest conversations about challenges, fears and aspirations. It allows you to express your concerns and receive personalised recommendations tailored to your specific circumstances. The empathetic approach of the MSP, coupled with active listening and understanding, creates an emotional connection that transcends the usual business-client relationship.

Components of a QBR

  • Infrastructure Assessment: The MSP assesses the client’s network, hardware, software and other technology infrastructure components. This evaluation helps identify any potential vulnerabilities, outdated systems or areas that require optimisation.
  • Performance Analysis: The MSP reviews the client’s technology performance metrics, such as network uptime, response times and system utilisation. This analysis helps identify bottlenecks, areas of improvement or potential risks.
  • Security Evaluation: The MSP examines the client’s security posture, including Cyber Security measures, data protection practices and compliance adherence. This assessment helps identify any vulnerabilities or areas where security can be enhanced.
  • Service Level Agreement (SLA) Review: The MSP reviews the SLA with the client, ensuring that the agreed-upon service levels are being met. This includes evaluating response times, issue resolution and overall customer satisfaction.
  • Future Planning and Recommendations: Based on the assessment findings, the MSP provides recommendations and strategic guidance to the client. This may include suggestions for technology upgrades, process improvements, security enhancements or cost optimisation measures.

The Importance of a QBR from an MSP

A QBR from an MSP holds significant importance for businesses of all sizes. Let’s delve into some key reasons why a QBR is crucial:

Gaining a Holistic View of Your Business

A quarterly business review provides you with a comprehensive overview of your company’s performance during a specific period. It does this by analysing various aspects, including financial performance, operational efficiency, customer satisfaction and employee productivity. By assessing these critical areas, you can identify strengths, weaknesses and areas for improvement. It allows you to identify what areas of your business are excelling and which ones require attention. By recognising your strengths, you can leverage them to gain a competitive advantage. Additionally, addressing weaknesses helps you minimise risks and enhance overall performance.

Uncovering Growth Opportunities

Through a QBR, an MSP can identify untapped growth opportunities that may have gone unnoticed. Analysing market trends, customer feedback and industry benchmarks can provide valuable insights into new markets, product enhancements and innovative strategies to drive business growth.

Enhancing Collaboration and Alignment

A QBR fosters collaboration and alignment within your organisation. By involving key stakeholders, such as department heads and senior management, in the review process, you can ensure that everyone is on the same page regarding goals, challenges and strategies. This collaborative approach promotes a unified vision and encourages teamwork.

Optimising Operational Efficiency

Identifying inefficiencies in your operations is vital for streamlining processes and maximising productivity. An MSP conducting a QBR can analyse your workflows, technology infrastructure and resource allocation to pinpoint areas where improvements can be made. By optimising operational efficiency, you can reduce costs, enhance customer service and achieve better overall performance.

Strengthening IT Infrastructure

A robust IT infrastructure is essential for business success in today’s digital age. A QBR from an MSP can evaluate your current IT systems, Cyber Security measures and data management practices. They can identify vulnerabilities and recommend solutions to enhance your IT infrastructure’s reliability, security and scalability.

Strategic Planning and Risk Mitigation

A QBR enables you to develop effective strategic plans and mitigate potential risks. By examining market trends, competitive landscape and emerging technologies, an MSP can help you formulate strategies that align with your business goals. Additionally, they can identify risks and provide proactive measures to minimise their impact.

Strengthens the Relationship with your MSP

A QBR serves as a bridge between you and your MSP. It fosters open communication, collaboration, and a deeper understanding of your unique business needs. This strengthened partnership allows the MSP to provide tailored solutions and support, ensuring your business thrives. When your MSP invests time and effort in conducting a QBR, it also demonstrates its commitment to your success. The personalised attention, proactive approach and customised recommendations leave you feeling valued and supported, leading to higher client satisfaction and long-term loyalty.

Learning your Business’ Technology Score

When an MSP completes a QBR for your business, oftentimes, you will receive a technology score. The concept of a technology score can vary depending on the specific MSP or service provider you are working with. It is not a universally standardised metric, but rather a subjective evaluation conducted by the MSP based on various factors related to your business’s technology infrastructure and performance.

The technology score typically reflects the MSP’s assessment of your business’s overall technology health, efficiency and alignment with industry best practices. It may consider factors such as:

  • Infrastructure: The MSP evaluates the robustness and scalability of your network, servers, storage and other hardware components. They assess whether your infrastructure meets the requirements of your business operations and future growth.
  • Security: The MSP examines your Cyber Security measures, including firewalls, antivirus software, data encryption, access controls and employee training. They look for potential vulnerabilities and weaknesses in your security posture.
  • Software and Applications: The MSP reviews the software and applications you use, assessing their relevance, performance and integration capabilities. They may consider factors such as licencing compliance, software updates and utilisation efficiency.
  • Performance and Reliability: The MSP evaluates the performance and reliability of your technology systems, including network uptime, response times and system availability. They may analyse historical data and metrics to identify areas for improvement.
  • IT Governance and Processes: The MSP assesses your IT governance structure, policies and processes. This includes evaluating IT documentation, change management practices, backup and disaster recovery plans, and adherence to industry standards.

Based on these factors, the MSP assigns a technology score to provide you with an indication of how well your business’s technology environment is performing and where improvements can be made. The score may be presented as a numerical value, a rating scale or a qualitative assessment, depending on the MSP’s methodology.

A QBR from an MSP is a critical component for achieving business success. It provides a holistic view of your organisation, uncovers growth opportunities, enhances collaboration, optimises operational efficiency, strengthens IT infrastructure and facilitates strategic planning and risk mitigation. By regularly conducting QBRs, you can stay ahead of the competition, adapt to market changes and drive growth. Remember to involve key stakeholders, seek a reliable MSP and embrace the insights and recommendations provided through the QBR process.

It’s important to note that each MSP may have its own methodology for calculating the technology score, so the specific details may vary. It’s best to consult with your MSP directly to understand how they determine and interpret the technology score for your business.

FAQs about QBRs

  • What is the purpose of a QBR?

A QBR aims to evaluate your business performance, identify improvement areas and develop growth strategies. It provides a comprehensive analysis of your operations and fosters collaboration within your organisation.

  • How often should QBRs be conducted?

Quarterly QBRs are typically recommended, as they provide a balanced frequency for evaluation and allow for timely adjustments. However, the frequency can be adjusted based on your business needs and industry dynamics.

  • Who should be involved in the QBR process?

A QBR should involve key stakeholders from different departments within your organisation. This includes senior management, department heads and individuals responsible for key areas such as finance, operations, marketing, HR and IT. By involving a diverse range of perspectives, you can ensure comprehensive insights and foster collaboration.

  • How long does a QBR typically take?

The duration of a QBR can vary depending on the size and complexity of your business. Generally, it can range from a few hours to a full day. It is important to allocate sufficient time to thoroughly discuss each aspect of the review and develop actionable plans.

  • What outcomes can I expect from a QBR?

A QBR can deliver several valuable outcomes for your business. These include a clear understanding of your business performance, identified growth opportunities, actionable recommendations for improvement, enhanced collaboration and aligned strategic plans. It also provides an opportunity to address any concerns or challenges faced by your organisation.

Cybersecurity, Technology

What is a firewall and how do they work?

What is a firewall and how do they work?

Firewalls are the digital guardians that stand between our sensitive data and the cybercriminals lurking in the dark corners of the internet. In this article, I’m going to take you on a journey through the fascinating world of firewalls and explain how they work to keep us safe.

What is a firewall?

At its most basic level, a firewall is a piece of software or hardware that monitors and controls the flow of data between a computer or network and the internet. It acts as a barrier, blocking unwanted traffic while allowing authorised traffic to pass through.

Firewalls can be thought of as bouncers at a club. The bouncer’s job is to let in the people who are supposed to be there while keeping out the troublemakers. In the same way, a firewall allows legitimate data to pass through while blocking malicious traffic.

When did firewalls first come about?

As security issues evolved, new preventative measures had to be developed to protect organisations and individuals. In 1989, packet-filtered firewalls came about and then the first commercial firewall, called DEC SEAL, was released in 1992. Stateful firewalls began appearing in 1994.

As investments and technology continued, in 2004, IDC coined the term, UTM, or unified threat management, which involves a single hardware or software that provides multiple security functions, highlighting how this area of security was becoming more complex, with more companies enhancing these technologies. Next-generation firewall, introduced by Gartner, then came about in 2009.

How do firewalls work?

A firewall analyses networks based on rules, allowing incoming connections that it has been configured to allow through. It allows or blocks specific data packets, which are units of communication sent over digital networks. This way, only trusted IP addresses — these identify computers or sources — are allowed through.

Types of firewalls

You can get both software and hardware firewalls, both serving a different purpose. Hardware firewalls, like hardware, are physical and are stored between your network and gateway, like a broadband router for example. Software firewalls are internal programs on your device that work through port numbers and apps. As businesses transition online, there are now also cloud-based firewalls, known as Firewall as a Service (FaaS) which can grow with your organisation.

There are many types of firewalls based on how they filter traffic, their structure and functionality. Here are just a few:

Packet-filtering firewalls: these examine each packet of data that tries to pass through and compare it to a set of predefined rules. If the packet matches one of the rules, it is allowed to pass through. If it doesn’t match any of the rules, it is blocked. These are basic and are meant for smaller networks as they do have some limitations, like being unable to prevent web-based attacks.

Stateful multi-layer inspection (SMLI) firewalls: these go a step further, not only examining each packet but also keeping track of the state of the connection between the two computers. This allows them to determine whether a particular packet is part of an established connection or if it’s a new connection attempt. This type of firewall is more secure than packet-filtering firewalls because it can detect and block certain types of attacks that packet-filtering firewalls cannot. They are still, however, unable to tell the difference between good and bad web traffic.

Next-generation firewalls (NGFW): these are more sophisticated as they have higher levels of security where they inspect a packet in its entirety, such as its contents and source. These firewalls can block more complex and evolving security threats like advanced malware.

Network address translation (NAT) firewalls: these can assess internet traffic and block unwelcome communications. They only allow inbound web traffic if a device on your network has approved the IP address.

Firewalls can also be configured to block specific types of traffic, such as incoming or outgoing email, instant messaging or peer-to-peer file sharing. This can be useful in preventing data leaks or stopping employees from wasting time on non-work-related activities.

It’s a good idea to have both network-based and host-based firewalls set up. Network firewalls are usually used by businesses to protect large networks of computers, servers and employees, where they filter traffic from the internet to secured local area networks (LAN). A host-based firewall is a software that works somewhat the same but is stored on a single computer or device and can be installed on each server to control traffic and protect the host.

One of the most common uses of firewalls is to protect home networks. Many home routers have built-in firewalls that can be configured to block incoming traffic from the internet while allowing outgoing traffic. This helps to prevent hackers from accessing the computers and devices on your network.

Firewalls are also essential for businesses of all sizes. They protect sensitive data such as customer information, financial records and proprietary information. Without a firewall, a company’s network could be vulnerable to attacks such as viruses, malware and denial-of-service (DoS) attacks like ransomware.

Make sure to constantly update your firewalls as firmware patches come about after any new vulnerabilities are discovered.

Why should I use a firewall?

Being connected to the internet, you should have a firewall in place, especially since threats are constantly evolving. Some risks of not using a firewall include having your networks open for anyone to access, having your data exposed for cybercriminals to delete, steal or demand a ransom from, or could cause attackers to shut down your network, again, often requiring you to pay a ransom to restore. At the very least, not having one can mean a loss of data, time and money.

As much as you continue to tell staff not to click unknown links or to access untrusty websites, people make mistakes, so a firewall is a minimum protection you should be including in your business. Even if you combine this with virus protection, which you should, it’s still the bare minimum in security.

When does a firewall not work?

Firewalls can be great for protecting your networks, but there are many vulnerabilities your business can still face even when using one.

You could be hit by an insider attack, or even a distributed denial of service (DDoS) attack, where your network gets flooded with traffic. You could be hit by malware, which can be incredibly varied and complex which firewalls can find difficult to defend against, or there may be a missed vulnerability in your firewall that hasn’t yet been rectified which can allow threats to access your network.

Not all firewalls prevent employees from accessing malicious websites and they cannot protect against virus-infected files accidentally being downloaded. They don’t prevent issues surrounding passwords and if your system is already infected, a firewall will do nothing.

It is because of this that a firewall should not be the only protection your business implements as its security measure. All your devices need to have the latest operating system and security software. Contact your IT or managed service provider to make sure they are adequately protecting your business and continually monitoring your systems for cyberattacks to stop them in their tracks.

Firewalls are an essential part of computer security. They act as the first line of defence against cybercriminals and can prevent a wide range of attacks. Whether you’re using a home computer or running a business, it’s important to have a firewall in place to protect your data and keep your network secure. So, if you haven’t already, make sure to invest in a good firewall and keep your digital life safe from harm.

Cybersecurity, Data Recovery, MSP

Is my company’s data recovery system fail-proof?

Is my company’s data recovery system fail-proof?

Have you ever lost important data due to a system failure and wondered if your data recovery system is fail-proof? Losing valuable data can be a frustrating and emotional experience, so it’s important to ensure that your data recovery system is reliable and effective.

When a company loses data that can be recreated or easily regathered, then data loss might not be a major issue for your business, but when data critical to your business is lost and unable to be reobtained quickly, this can cause devastating problems for your business, including possible fines.

Some business owners have the idea that they live in an area safe from disasters, or they’ve never had a disaster, so they don’t need to invest in a disaster recovery plan for their business. For those business owners or stakeholders, it’s time to start rethinking what disaster recovery means.

When something goes wrong on one of your or your employees’ devices, or even in your IT system infrastructure, a strong recovery plan can mean the difference between getting back up and running in minutes or struggling to recover your information for days, weeks or ever. 

What Constitutes a Disaster?

A disaster doesn’t just have to be natural, like a fire, flood, cyclone or earthquake. In business, disaster also includes ones caused by human error, like an employee failing to save a document or clicking a phishing link. Data backups and recovery in your business means protecting your business from human error, corrupted files, fraud, ransomware, Cyber Security breaches, IT system failures and power outages.

Importance of a Disaster Recovery Plan

Other than protecting your business and its long-term operations, having a disaster recovery plan is important for many other reasons, including:

  • Protecting your business’ data
  • Protecting sensitive information of customers
  • Protecting your business’ reputation
  • Removing longevity worries and allowing your business to focus on more important matters
  • Cost-effective as it reduces possible financial loss and business disruption

The 3-2-1 Backup Rule

If you are not relying on an external provider to look after your systems and data recovery, businesses should use the 3-2-1 rule. All precious data should be stored 3 times, once on the original data storage place, like your computer, and then on two other different technologies, like on disks and the cloud.

Why do backups fail?

  • Your backup software didn’t work
  • There’s not enough space on the storage device for the backup
  • The backup didn’t cover the entire device
  • Backups are done manually, not automatically
  • The computer or storage device was not on when the automatic backup was scheduled
  • Files were lost before the backup was created

Backup tips

Here are some tips to determine whether your data recovery system is fail-proof.

Firstly, consider the type of data recovery system you have in place. If you’re relying on a basic backup system like an external hard drive or USB drive, it may not be enough to protect against all types of data loss. These systems can also fail, so it’s important to have a backup of your backup or consider using a more sophisticated data recovery system.

Secondly, consider how often you’re backing up. If you’re only backing up your data occasionally, such as once a week or once a month, you may be at risk of losing important data that was created or modified since your last backup, so if you received a large amount of customer data or analytics during that time, it’s all gone. Ensure your backup system runs automatically regularly so you don’t have to worry about forgetting to back up your data.

Thirdly, test your data recovery system regularly. It’s important to ensure that your data recovery system is actually working and can recover your data in the event of a system failure. Test your backup and recovery processes regularly and ensure you can restore all of your important data.

Fourthly, consider using cloud-based backup and recovery systems. These systems are designed to be highly reliable and secure and can protect against all types of data loss, including natural disasters, theft and cyberattacks. They also allow you to access your data from anywhere, at any time, making it easy to recover your data in the event of a system failure.

How an MSP helps

Your managed service provider should offer data continuity as a service and it is a service you should most certainly be using. The MSP will regularly back up your data and test these backups to ensure your business will be back up and running no matter what happens.

Pronet Technology’s disaster recovery solution provides several layers of redundancy to ensure that your essential data is backed up and recoverable. Our backup systems are also regularly ‘stress tested’ so that we can ensure your backups are ready and able to function in a real situation.

Ensuring that your data recovery system is fail-proof is essential for protecting your valuable data. Consider the type of backup system you’re using, the frequency and reliability of your backups, regularly test your data recovery system and consider using a cloud-based backup and recovery system. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your data is safe and secure and that you won’t have to worry about losing important data due to a system failure.

Businesses are full of data and while this data may not be 100 per cent safe from threats and losses, as long as you’re prepared for such emergencies, you will be able to pick up and keep business moving.

Like anything in the IT industry, risks and solutions are constantly changing, so keep up to date with different strategies to incorporate into your data recovery plan. Contact your MSP to see how they are adequately keeping your data safe and to see if there is anything else your business can do to keep itself safe.

Cybersecurity, Essential Eight, IT Support

Who is a Cyber Security Risk Assessment for?

Who is a Cyber Security Risk Assessment for?

As we move towards a more digitised world, the importance of Cyber Security continues to increase. Cyberattacks have become more frequent, sophisticated and damaging over the years. It’s essential to ensure the safety and security of your organisation’s information and technology assets. One of the best ways to achieve this is by conducting a Cyber Security Risk Assessment.

A Cyber Security Risk Assessment is a process of identifying, analysing and evaluating potential risks and vulnerabilities in an organisation’s digital environment. It involves evaluating the security measures in place and identifying any weaknesses that can lead to data breaches, cyberattacks or other security incidents. The ultimate goal of a Cyber Security Risk Assessment is to develop a comprehensive security plan that minimises risks and protects an organisation’s digital assets.

Why is a Cyber Security Risk Assessment important?

The world is witnessing a surge in cybercrime activities. Hackers and cybercriminals are always looking for ways to infiltrate an organisation’s digital environment and exploit vulnerabilities. A Cyber Security Risk Assessment helps organisations identify potential risks and vulnerabilities in their digital environment, enabling them to take proactive measures to mitigate such risks.

A Risk Assessment also helps organisations to comply with various regulatory requirements such as The Privacy Act 1988. Compliance with such regulations is crucial, as non-compliance can lead to hefty fines, legal liabilities and reputational damage.

Who is a Cyber Security Risk Assessment for?

A Cyber Security Risk Assessment is for everyone, irrespective of the size or nature of the organisation. Any organisation that stores, processes or interacts with information over the internet is at risk of cyberattacks. Therefore, every organisation needs to conduct a Risk Assessment to identify potential risks and vulnerabilities and develop a comprehensive security plan.

Small and Medium-sized businesses (SMBs)

Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) often assume that they are not at risk of cyberattacks because they are small or don’t have much valuable information. However, this is not true. Hackers often target SMBs because they have weaker security measures in place, making them easy targets. Another fact that SMBs should be aware of is that most cyberattacks are non-targeted. It is likened to a fisherman casting a wider net to catch as many fish as possible instead of spending the time and resources to catch the ideal fish. Also, some criminals would prefer not to target high-profile companies for fear of being the centre of an investigation by government enforcement agencies like the Australian Federal Police. A Cyber Security Risk Assessment can help SMBs identify potential risks and vulnerabilities and take proactive measures to mitigate such risks.

Enterprises

Enterprises often have a complex digital environment, making it challenging to identify potential risks and vulnerabilities. A Cyber Security Risk Assessment can help enterprises assess their security posture and identify potential risks and vulnerabilities across their entire digital environment.

Government Agencies

Government agencies often store sensitive information such as citizens’ personal information, national security secrets and confidential data. A Cyber Security Risk Assessment can help identify potential risks and vulnerabilities in government agencies’ digital environment, enabling them to take proactive measures to protect sensitive information.

Healthcare Industry

The healthcare industry is one of the most targeted industries by cybercriminals. Electronic Health Records (EHR) and other digital healthcare information are extremely valuable to hackers. A Cyber Security Risk Assessment can help healthcare organisations identify potential risks and vulnerabilities and take proactive measures to secure their digital environment.

How is a Cyber Security Risk Assessment conducted?

A Cyber Security Risk Assessment typically involves the following steps:

  1. Scope Definition: Defining the scope of the assessment, including the digital assets to be evaluated, the assessment methodology and the expected outcomes.
  2. Asset Identification: Identifying all the digital assets within the scope of the assessment.
  3. Threat Identification: Identifying all potential threats and vulnerabilities to digital assets.
  4. Risk Analysis: Analysing the likelihood and impact of potential risks and vulnerabilities.
  5. Risk Evaluation: Evaluate the risks and vulnerabilities to determine the most critical ones.
  6. Risk Treatment: Developing and implementing a plan to mitigate identified risks and vulnerabilities.
  7. Risk Monitoring: Continuously monitoring the digital environment to identify any new potential risks and vulnerabilities.

It’s important to note that conducting a Cyber Security Risk Assessment is not a one-time process. The digital environment is continually changing and new threats and vulnerabilities can emerge at any time. Therefore, it’s essential to conduct regular assessments to ensure the digital environment remains secure.

A Cyber Security Risk Assessment is a critical process that every organisation must undertake to protect its digital assets. It helps identify potential risks and vulnerabilities, enabling organisations to take proactive measures to mitigate such risks. It also helps organisations comply with regulatory requirements, minimise legal liabilities and protect their reputation.

No organisation is immune to cyberattacks and the consequences can be devastating. Therefore, it’s essential to conduct regular Cyber Security Risk Assessments to ensure the digital environment remains secure. Don’t wait until it’s too late; conduct a Cyber Security Risk Assessment today and protect your organisation’s digital assets.

FAQs

  • What are the benefits of conducting a Cyber Security Risk Assessment?

Conducting a Cyber Security Risk Assessment helps organisations identify potential risks and vulnerabilities, enabling them to take proactive measures to mitigate such risks. It also helps organisations comply with regulatory requirements, minimise legal liabilities and protect their reputation.

  • What happens if an organisation doesn’t conduct a Cyber Security Risk Assessment?

An organisation that doesn’t conduct a Cyber Security Risk Assessment is at risk of cyberattacks, data breaches, legal liabilities and reputational damage. It can also face hefty fines for non-compliance with regulatory requirements.

  • Can small businesses benefit from conducting a Cyber Security Risk Assessment?

Yes, small businesses can benefit significantly from conducting a Cyber Security Risk Assessment. Hackers often target small businesses because they have weaker security measures in place, making them easy targets. Conducting a Cyber Security Risk Assessment can help small businesses identify potential risks and vulnerabilities and take proactive measures to mitigate such risks.

  • How often should an organisation conduct a Cyber Security Risk Assessment?

An organisation should conduct a Cyber Security Risk Assessment at least once a year or whenever there is a significant change in the digital environment.

  • What are the steps involved in conducting a Cyber Security Risk Assessment?

The steps involved in conducting a Cyber Security Risk Assessment include scope definition, asset identification, threat identification, risk analysis, risk evaluation, risk treatment and risk monitoring.

  • How long does a Cyber Security Risk Assessment take?

The duration of a Cyber Security Risk Assessment depends on the size and complexity of the digital environment being assessed. However, it typically takes anywhere from a few weeks to several months to complete.

Cybersecurity, Essential Eight, MSP

10 Benefits of Performing a Cyber Security Risk Assessment

10 Benefits of Performing a Cyber Security Risk Assessment

You’re not alone if you feel concerned about the security of your business. In today’s digital age, cyber threats are a constant concern for businesses of all sizes. One way to protect your business is by performing a Cyber Security risk assessment. While it may seem like a chore, especially when you have plenty of other business issues or projects to work on, there are many benefits of conducting a risk assessment, and completing one can actually save your business.

What is a Cyber Security Risk Assessment?

Before we delve into the benefits of a Cyber Security risk assessment, let’s define what it is. A Cyber Security risk assessment is the process of identifying, evaluating and prioritising potential security risks to your business’ technology systems, networks and data. This assessment is crucial in understanding the vulnerabilities of your business’s digital assets and how they could be exploited by malicious actors.

The Benefits of Performing a Cyber Security Risk Assessment

Performing a Cyber Security risk assessment can provide many benefits to your business. Here are 10 of the most significant advantages of conducting a risk assessment:

Identifying Vulnerabilities

A risk assessment can help identify vulnerabilities in your business’s technology systems, networks and data. By identifying these vulnerabilities, you can take proactive steps to mitigate them before they’re exploited by cybercriminals. This also allows you to improve the Cyber Security stance of the business and create a Cyber Security culture within your company.

Prioritising Risks

Conducting a risk assessment can help prioritise risks to your business’s technology systems, networks and data, and allows your business to introduce the appropriate response strategies to the vulnerabilities you have identified. By doing so, you can allocate resources to address the most significant risks first, ensuring that your business is protected where it matters most.

Complying with Regulations

Many industries have regulations that require businesses to perform Cyber Security risk assessments regularly. By complying with these regulations, you can avoid hefty fines and penalties, and safeguard your business from legal troubles. In Australia, all businesses need to comply with The Privacy Act 1988, meaning they need to have some sort of measures in place to protect consumers’ information. For public sector organisations, the Australian Government has also brought in Essential Eight, a Cyber Security framework that they must implement. This is highly recommended for all other businesses in Australia too, and we predict it will be mandated for everyone soon.

Reducing Downtime

Cyberattacks can cause significant downtime for your business, resulting in lost productivity and revenue. Downtime can cause customers to go elsewhere and can cause staff to halt projects or start working manually which they will then have to fix later on when IT issues are resolved. By performing a risk assessment, you can identify potential threats and implement preventative measures to reduce the likelihood of a cyberattack and minimise downtime.

Protecting Your Reputation

A data breach can damage your business’s reputation and erode customer trust. When customers lose trust in your business’ ability to protect their information or even just in your ability to protect yourself, they will stop using your business or bypass your services altogether even if they’ve never used them before. As for stakeholders like suppliers, they may be hesitant to work with an organisation that has suffered a security breach, especially as this will disrupt the rest of the supply chain. By performing a Cyber Security risk assessment and implementing preventative measures, you can safeguard your business’ reputation and show customers that you take their data security seriously.

Improving Security Posture

A risk assessment can help you understand your business’ security position and identify areas for improvement. By addressing these areas, you can improve your business’ overall security posture and better protect against cyber threats in the future. You may find your position is actually better than you thought, giving you the reassurance that your IT team or managed service provider is doing their job and looking after the interests of your business. Overall, a risk assessment allows you to ease your fears about cyberattacks as well as the potential loss of your business.

Keeps Stakeholders Informed

A comprehensive Cyber Security Risk Assessment allows you to keep your stakeholders informed and educated on vulnerabilities as well as allows you to inform them of how you’re going about protecting the business and their interests. It also allows you to provide an executive summary to help executives and directors make informed security decisions.

Reduces Long-Term Costs

A Cyber Security risk assessment allows you to fully understand the justification behind costs being made around security, which, as a business owner or decision-maker, you need to fully comprehend just how important this additional expense is. By knowing the vulnerabilities in your IT systems, you can then spend the proper amount of time and money in fixing these issues and mitigating risks, which will ultimately save your business the costs of downtime and of dealing with cyberattacks when they occur. That’s not to say that they won’t occur even with a fantastic Cyber Security posture, but the majority will be able to be prevented and you should be able to stop the worst of the attack in its tracks when one does. You will also be able to get your business back up and running quickly and seamlessly with data recovery responses.

Prevents Data Loss

Data loss can and has destroyed businesses. It has both financial and emotional impacts on businesses of all sizes, not just large enterprises. This includes stress and anxiety due to losing customer records, financial information and key documents; financial impact surrounding the cost of lost business, lost reputation with customers and suppliers as well as with data recovery and breach response; the impacts surrounding legal consequences of not complying with data protection laws.

Improves Communication

This benefit comes from different avenues. First, a risk assessment requires information from different parts of an organisation, so this improves communication between both leaders and departments. It also breaks down barriers between management and IT staff, whether that be internal and/or external, as it allows the two groups to come together to make decisions that relate to the implementation of security requirements for systems, data and access, while also thinking about the security of the organisation as a whole.

Performing a Cyber Security risk assessment is a crucial step in protecting your business from cyber threats. It allows you to safeguard your business’ digital assets and ensure its long-term success. So, don’t wait until it’s too late. Invest in a Cyber Security risk assessment today and reap the benefits of a secure and successful business.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How often should I perform a Cyber Security risk assessment?

It’s recommended that businesses perform a Cyber Security risk assessment at least once a year or whenever there’s a significant change to their technology systems or infrastructure.

  • What are the key components of a Cyber Security risk assessment?

A Cyber Security risk assessment typically includes identifying assets, threats, vulnerabilities and controls. It also involves assessing the likelihood and impact of potential threats and prioritising risks.

  • Who should perform a Cyber Security risk assessment?

All businesses need to conduct a Cyber Security risk assessment, not just large enterprises. It’s also recommended that businesses hire a qualified Cyber Security professional to perform this assessment as it ensures the assessment is thorough and accurate and that all potential risks are identified and addressed.

  • How long does a Cyber Security risk assessment take?

The length of a risk assessment depends on the size and complexity of the business’s technology systems and infrastructure. Typically, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to complete a comprehensive risk assessment.

  • What happens after a Cyber Security risk assessment?

After a risk assessment is completed, a report is generated that outlines potential risks and recommended actions to mitigate them. The business can then take these actions to improve its overall security posture and protect against cyber threats.

  • Is a Cyber Security risk assessment worth the investment?

Absolutely. The benefits of performing a cyber security risk assessment far outweigh the cost. By identifying vulnerabilities and implementing preventative measures, you can protect your business from cyberattacks, reduce downtime, comply with regulations and safeguard your reputation.

Cybersecurity, Managed IT Services, vulnerability scan

The ACSC’s Essential Eight Maturity Model

Essential Eight Maturity Model

In today’s complex cyber landscape, businesses face a new set of challenges every day to keep up with the competition. Among all sorts of challenges, the primary and most common ones are the ones that occur online because of business reliability on internet. And, one category of these challenges that is putting businesses on edge is Cyberattacks. As the technology advances, these threats to businesses have also advanced. There is an unwanted and sharp rise in the occurrence of cyber-attacks all across the world. And, in terms of its victims, there is no exclusion; it could be an individual, a start-up, a small business, a government institution, a tech-giant, or literally anyone and everyone on the internet.

It is a choice of the individuals and businesses to maintain cybersecurity posture but looking at the grim consequences of cyberattacks, the Federal government is focussing on building Australia’s defences. And, as a precautionary advisory for its people, it has introduced the Essential Eight Maturity Model to have cybersecurity measures implemented within the organisations. This model consists of strategies that assesses potential risks like loopholes within a business framework and offers preventive measures against them to keep the business operations running smoothly.

What is the ACSC’s Essential Eight?

Essential Eight are the strategies developed and maintained by ACSC to mitigate or prevent cybersecurity incidents within Australia. These strategies can be applied across a broad spectrum of systems, networks and applications. These strategies rank three key areas: prevention, limitation and recovery by analysing their maturity levels.

Here are all the eight mitigation strategies:

  1. Application Control: Running of only approved and trusted applications on the business network to prevent any exposure to the attackers.

  2. Patch Applications: Regularly apply updates to all the installed applications to fix all the known vulnerabilities.

  3. Configure Microsoft Office macro settings: The user’s ability to create macros should be limited as per the requirement.

  4. User application hardening: User apps can be used to execute malicious malware on corporate systems, thus keep them to a minimum.

  5. Restrict administrative privileges: Privileges of access should be restricted, managed, and constantly monitored as the more admins you have, the more will be chances for attackers to access business system through these accounts.

  6. Patch operating systems: Implement the latest security updates to operating systems, servers, and all the devices to fix known vulnerabilities.

  7. Multi-factor authentication: Ensuring two-level security for all the activities involving accessing emails, systems and third-party applications is the one of the best ways to stop unauthorised access to the business sensitive data.

  8. Regular backups: Performing daily backups of important data, software and settings for at least a couple of months is important for business to continue to operate in the event of a security incident.
ACSC Essential Eight

These are the eight strategies that are measured according to the below-mentioned maturity levels of a business:

Maturity Level 0: This maturity level signifies that there are weaknesses in an organisation’s overall cyber security posture.

Maturity Level 1: The focus of this maturity level is all the cyber attackers who are looking to simply leverage commodity tradecraft that is widely available in order to gain access to, and likely control of, systems of a business.

Maturity Level 2: The focus of this maturity level is attackers operating with a modest step-up in capability from the previous maturity level. These attackers are willing to invest more time in targeting a business and, perhaps more importantly, in the effectiveness of their tools.

Maturity Level 3: The focus of this maturity level is attackers who are more adaptive and much less reliant on public tools and techniques. These attackers are able to exploit the opportunities provided by weaknesses in their target’s cyber security posture, such as the existence of older software or inadequate logging and monitoring.

You can have a detailed look at the Essential Eight here: https://www.cyber.gov.au/acsc/view-all-content/publications/essential-eight-maturity-model

Although, these are some really helpful risk mitigation strategies that should be implemented, but still they are not sufficient to completely keep a business protected from cyberattacks. It needs continuous and consistent efforts to be protected from any kind of cyber threats. Businesses need to regularly identify the exposed areas that can be attacked by hackers, potential vulnerabilities and much more to stay ahead of the attackers.

Stay tuned to our Blogs to know more about how you can make the best of technology for your business. 

Cybersecurity, Managed IT Services, vulnerability scan

Are You Aware of These 5 Reasons to Conduct Vulnerability Scan of Your Business Today?

Are You Aware of These 5 Reasons to Conduct Vulnerability Scan of Your Business Today?

Do you remember the last day when you didn’t hear about a cyberattack on a company? No, right? Cyberattacks have become really common these days, making cybersecurity an everyday hassle for businesses to focus upon. The shifting of more and more businesses to the cloud has resulted in a rise in data breaches. Hackers are going after companies of all sizes and, in some cases, even individuals. They are getting better at using technology and are motivated by their own self-interest. The rise in Cyberattacks have increased drastically within Australia as mentioned in the Annual Cyber Threat Report by ACSC

But, do you know how hackers attack a network of computers (s)?

The quickest way for hackers to get into a system is to look for vulnerabilities that they can exploit. By vulnerabilities, we mean any weakness within the IT infrastructure that a hacker can potentially detect and exploit. Therefore, for businesses storing data on their organisation’s network, it becomes crucial for businesses to have a set of cybersecurity measures in place to avoid cyberattacks.

The most important thing that businesses can do to prevent cyberattacks is to monitor their IT infrastructure for vulnerabilities. Running Vulnerability Scans identifies the same for businesses, motivating them to take urgent action. A Vulnerability Scan can be defined as a scan that identifies, analyses, and reports the security loopholes and potential areas of exploitation that can be targeted by hackers. These scans are conducted either by the internal IT team or are outsourced to Managed Service Security Providers.

Does your business need to conduct a Vulnerability Scan and, if so, how frequently?

The next thing to determine is whether or not your company actually requires this scan. The answer to it is “Yes.” Every business these days is using technology in one way or the other. Even if you are a small or family-owned business that only uses one or two computers, we suggest that every business that uses computers to store their data should conduct a Vulnerability Scan because hackers can exploit network weaknesses and destroy or misuse the stored data and information.

The main thing to understand is the number of times you should run vulnerability scans for the size of your business. We would suggest that, at the very least, it should be done once a quarter if not monthly or as soon as you’ve made a significant infrastructural or other IT architecture change.

Reasons to Conduct Vulnerability Scan Today

To Risk Profile your business for any vulnerabilities
Nowadays, no business can function without the internet. Every single time a computer uses the Internet, there is a high potential for a hacker to take advantage of some new vulnerability out there. If the system is not cybersecure, hackers can worm their way into a network and steal proprietary information and other data critical to a business. By running a vulnerability scan to identify the points of weakness in your systems, you can reduce the attack surface that criminals might exploit. In the last couple of years, cyberattacks broke into 62% of Australian SMBs. This shows how important it is for companies to have security measures in place.

To not fall victim to cyberattack occurring every 39 seconds
Research has shown that businesses are unknowingly vulnerable for 470 days before a cyber-attack. And, attackers have an average of 176 days to steal sensitive data and information before a vulnerability is discovered. Vulnerability scans help businesses detect potential vulnerabilities and minimise false positives to prevent future data breaches and remediate vulnerabilities before attackers exploit them.

To double-check the efficiency of cybersecurity measures in place
It is a common misconception among businesses that their MSP or IT support provider, who is in charge of their IT infrastructure, is also responsible for protecting them from cyberattacks; however, this is not always the case. They do not offer cybersecurity unless they are a MSSP (Managed Services Security Provider) or a specialist in cybersecurity. So, to ensure a secure environment to work in and the security measures in place, running a vulnerability scan is a good idea to start with.

To Avoid the Business Setback for an Average of 205 Days after a Cyberattack   
According to the reports, the average time to fix critical cybersecurity vulnerabilities is 205 days. This means no work for almost 7 months, bringing a huge loss to the business and, in many cases, an unfortunate shut down too. Interestingly, there is 1 cybercrime report every 10 minutes & 144 approx. cybercrime reports every day by small and medium businesses, making it more crucial than ever before to deploy cybersecurity measures within all businesses.

To Avoid Paying Huge Ransom for Data Recovery Following a Cyberattack  
The average total cost of a cyber data breach in Australia last year was $3.35 million per breach. That’s $163 per lost or stolen record, according to IBM’s 2020 Cost of a Data Breach Report. That’s due to each breach taking 296 days to identify and contain. To avoid shelling out your hard-earned money, the only way is to have a cybersecurity posture maintained within your business. You can start by running a vulnerability scan of your business to identify the potential areas of exploitation and the new vulnerabilities emerging every day.

If implemented correctly and ran on regular basis, vulnerability scans can prove to be instrumental in identifying and assessing modern security risk, highlighting the insights for urgent action(s) by the businesses for maintaining a strong cybersecurity across all the areas.

Take Your First Step Towards Cybersecurity With Us Today!

If you want to protect your business from cyberattacks
OR
to get help in determining what is the best solution for your business,

Call us today at 03 9069 2188 for a free consultation.