These days, it feels like there’s a new cybersecurity warning every time you turn around, right? And with good reason.
Last year, ransomware attacks alone affected 81% of US businesses. The cost of cyber-crime is estimated to hit $10.5 trillion by 2025.
2022 Cybersecurity Almanac
Yet, too many businesses are still brushing off the risk.
And the reality? A cyber-attack doesn’t just threaten your data. It can cost you tens of thousands in recovery expenses, plus an average of 21 days of downtime.
Imagine 21 days where your business can’t function as usual—three whole weeks. Can your company handle that kind of disruption? Many can’t. And let’s not forget, such an incident can seriously damage the trust your clients have in you, leading to lost business.
So, what’s the solution?
The most effective approach is a layered security strategy—multiple protective measures working together to fit your business’s specific needs. While no system is 100% attack-proof (short of locking everything down and disrupting normal operations), balancing protection and usability is key.
Is your business making any of these critical cyber security mistakes?
Despite good intentions, some common mistakes can leave businesses exposed. Here are the three most dangerous ones:
Mistake 1) Not restricting access
Not everyone in your company needs access to every file or system. When employees have unrestricted access, you’re essentially leaving the door open for cybercriminals. Ensure each employee only accesses what they need for their role. Update access rights when roles change and immediately revoke access when someone leaves.
Mistake 2) Allowing lateral movement
f cybercriminals get into a single computer, like one used by your admin team, it might seem manageable. But what if they can move from that system to others, like invoicing or your CRM? This lateral movement can grant them access to sensitive data and systems, leading to significant damage.
To prevent this, consider air gapping—isolating different sections of your network to keep one compromised area from exposing others.
Mistake 3) Not planning and protecting
Businesses that work closely with their IT partners to develop and regularly update their security plan stand a better chance against attacks. Not only are they less likely to be targeted, but they also recover faster if an attack does occur.
Having an up-to-date incident response plan reduces response time, minimizes data loss, and keeps recovery costs in check.
Round Up…
If you know you’re making one (two, or even three) of these mistakes in your business, you need to act quickly. We can help.
Get in touch, and we’ll review your current security arrangements.