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Showing posts with label Cybersecurity Strategy. Show all posts
Risk Assessment
business protection Cyber Security cybersecurity for businesses Cybersecurity measures Cybersecurity Strategy Risk Assessment

6 Cybersecurity Mistakes That Put Businesses at Risk

 

In today’s digital-first economy, technology is a vital part of every business, from small local operations to international corporations. However, the growing reliance on tech also brings significant risks. With over half of global businesses reportedly suffering financial losses of at least $300,000 due to cyberattacks, it’s clear that cybersecurity must be taken seriously. Despite this, many organizations still fall short in their implementation, not because of a lack of awareness but due to a range of common yet critical mistakes. 

One frequent issue is a misalignment between a company’s risk tolerance and its cybersecurity efforts. Many businesses either overestimate or underestimate the level of security they need. Without a clear, shared understanding between executive leaders and IT teams on how much risk is acceptable, businesses may implement overly restrictive controls that disrupt operations or leave gaps that hackers can exploit. It’s essential to strike the right balance by openly discussing risk appetite and making security decisions that support overall business objectives. 

Another major problem is the failure to conduct thorough and regular risk assessments. Some organizations rely too heavily on automated tools, skipping manual checks or human analysis that can identify deeper issues. Effective risk assessment goes beyond just identifying technical vulnerabilities — it must also consider employee behavior, third-party risks, and the potential impact on operations. A comprehensive, ongoing evaluation provides a more accurate picture of where improvements are needed. 

Many companies also make the mistake of sticking to outdated or rigid security strategies. Cyber threats are constantly evolving, so security strategies must be flexible and reviewed regularly. A well-developed plan should clearly outline responsibilities, set measurable goals, and be adaptable enough to respond to emerging threats. Without consistent reviews and updates, businesses leave themselves open to new and unexpected forms of attack. Ignoring software updates and patches is another common oversight. Failing to apply critical updates can leave systems vulnerable to known exploits. Organizations need structured patch management routines, including regular scans and prioritized deployments. Using automated tools can help streamline this process, especially for larger teams. 

Data protection is another area where businesses often fall short. Equally important is having a strong backup strategy. A 3-2-1 backup system — three copies of data on two different media, with one off-site — ensures that data can be recovered quickly and reliably. Regular testing of these backups is crucial to ensure they work when needed.

Finally, treating cybersecurity as a one-time setup rather than an ongoing process can leave a company dangerously exposed. Installing antivirus software or enabling multi-factor authentication is just the start. Continuous monitoring and improvement — including real-time threat detection, regular audits, and employee training — are necessary to stay ahead of cybercriminals. Human oversight is just as important as technical tools when interpreting alerts and responding to threats effectively. 

Avoiding these common cybersecurity mistakes can significantly strengthen a business’s defense against attacks. Protecting your digital assets doesn’t require the most expensive tools — it requires the right strategies, regular evaluations, and a culture that values security. With a proactive, informed approach, businesses can reduce risk, maintain customer trust, and ensure long-term resilience against evolving cyber threats.
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Technology
AI Security Cyber Threats Cybersecurity Strategy Data Breach human risk insider risk Phishing Attacks Technology

Over Half of Organizations Lack AI Cybersecurity Strategies, Mimecast Report Reveals

 

More than 55% of organizations have yet to implement dedicated strategies to counter AI-driven cyber threats, according to new research by Mimecast. The cybersecurity firm's latest State of Human Risk report, based on insights from 1,100 IT security professionals worldwide, highlights growing concerns over AI vulnerabilities, insider threats, and cybersecurity funding shortfalls.

The study reveals that 96% of organizations report improved risk management after adopting a formal cybersecurity strategy. However, security leaders face an increasingly complex threat landscape, with AI-powered attacks and insider risks posing significant challenges.

“Despite the complexity of challenges facing organisations—including increased insider risk, larger attack surfaces from collaboration tools, and sophisticated AI attacks—organisations are still too eager to simply throw point solutions at the problem,” said Mimecast’s human risk strategist VP, Masha Sedova. “With short-staffed IT and security teams and an unrelenting threat landscape, organisations must shift to a human-centric platform approach that connects the dots between employees and technology to keep the business secure.”

The report finds that 95% of organizations are leveraging AI for threat detection, endpoint security, and insider risk analysis. However, 81% express concerns over data leaks from generative AI (GenAI) tools. More than half lack structured strategies to combat AI-driven attacks, while 46% remain uncertain about their ability to defend against AI-powered phishing and deepfake threats.

Insider threats have surged by 43%, with 66% of IT leaders anticipating an increase in data loss from internal sources in the coming year. The report estimates that insider-driven data breaches, leaks, or theft cost an average of $13.9 million per incident. Additionally, 79% of organizations believe collaboration tools have heightened security risks, amplifying both intentional and accidental data breaches.

Despite 85% of organizations raising their cybersecurity budgets, 61% cite financial constraints as a barrier to addressing emerging threats and implementing AI-driven security solutions. The report underscores the need for increased investment in cybersecurity staffing, third-party security services, email security, and collaboration tool protection.

Although 87% of organizations conduct quarterly cybersecurity training, 33% of IT leaders remain concerned about employee mismanagement of email threats, while 27% cite security fatigue as a growing risk. 95% of organizations expect email-based cyber threats to persist in 2025, as phishing attacks continue to exploit human vulnerabilities.

Collaboration tools are expanding attack surfaces, with 44% of organizations reporting a rise in cyber threats originating from these platforms. 61% believe a cyberattack involving collaboration tools could disrupt business operations in 2025, raising concerns over data integrity and compliance.

The report highlights a shift from traditional security awareness training to proactive Human Risk Management. Notably, just 8% of employees are responsible for 80% of security incidents. Organizations are increasingly turning to AI-driven monitoring and behavioral analytics to detect and mitigate threats early. 72% of security leaders see human-centric cybersecurity solutions as essential in the next five years, signaling a shift toward advanced threat detection and risk mitigation.
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Manufacturing Organization
Cyber Awareness Cyber Security Cybersecurity Strategy Data protection data security manufacturing industry Manufacturing Organization

Building Cyber Resilience in Manufacturing: Key Strategies for Success

 

In today's digital landscape, manufacturers face increasing cyber threats that can disrupt operations and compromise sensitive data. Building a culture of cyber resilience is essential to safeguard against these risks. Here are three key strategies manufacturers can implement to enhance their cyber resilience. 

First, manufacturers must prioritize cybersecurity training and awareness across all levels of their organization. Employees should be educated about the latest cyber threats, phishing scams, and best practices for data protection. Regular training sessions, workshops, and simulations can help reinforce the importance of cybersecurity and ensure that all staff members are equipped to recognize and respond to potential threats. By fostering a knowledgeable workforce, manufacturers can significantly reduce the likelihood of successful cyberattacks. Training should be continuous and evolving to keep pace with the rapidly changing cyber threat landscape. Manufacturers can incorporate real-world scenarios and case studies into their training programs to provide employees with practical experience in identifying and mitigating threats. 

Second, adopting robust security measures is crucial for building cyber resilience. Manufacturers should implement multi-layered security protocols, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption technologies. Regularly updating software and hardware, conducting vulnerability assessments, and implementing strong access controls can further protect against cyber threats. Additionally, integrating advanced threat detection and response solutions can help identify and mitigate risks in real-time, ensuring a proactive approach to cybersecurity. It is also vital to develop and maintain a comprehensive incident response plan that outlines specific steps to be taken in the event of a cyberattack. 
This plan should include roles and responsibilities, communication protocols, and procedures for containing and mitigating damage. Regular drills and simulations should be conducted to ensure that the incident response plan is effective and that employees are familiar with their roles during an actual event.  

Third, creating a collaborative security culture involves encouraging open communication and cooperation among all departments within the organization. Manufacturers should establish clear protocols for reporting and responding to security incidents, ensuring that employees feel comfortable sharing information about potential threats without fear of reprisal. By promoting a team-oriented approach to cybersecurity, manufacturers can leverage the collective expertise of their workforce to identify vulnerabilities and develop effective mitigation strategies. Fostering collaboration also means engaging with external partners, industry groups, and government agencies to share threat intelligence and best practices. 

By participating in these networks, manufacturers can stay informed about emerging threats and leverage collective knowledge to enhance their security posture. Moreover, manufacturers should invest in the latest cybersecurity technologies to protect their systems. This includes implementing AI-powered threat detection systems that can identify and respond to anomalies more quickly than traditional methods. Manufacturers should also consider employing cybersecurity experts or consulting firms to audit their systems regularly and provide recommendations for improvement. 

Finally, fostering a culture of cyber resilience involves leadership commitment from the top down. Executives and managers must prioritize cybersecurity and allocate sufficient resources to protect the organization. This includes not only financial investment but also dedicating time and effort to understand cybersecurity challenges and support initiatives aimed at strengthening defenses.
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White House
Cyber Attacks cybercriminals Cybersecurity Cybersecurity Strategy Threat Environment White House

White House Cybersecurity Strategy warns of "Complex Threat Environment"

 


There was a national cyber-security strategy published by the White House on March 2. It contains a list of threats to U.S. networks terrestrially and in space related to Russian and Chinese hackers. 

"Evolving intelligence" suggests many options could be explored for potential cyberattacks against critical U.S. infrastructure, as President Biden warned on Monday. 

Anne Neuberger, Mr. Biden's deputy national security adviser for cyber and emerging technology, told reporters Monday afternoon that U.S. officials have observed "preparatory work" linked to nation-state actors, despite no evidence of any specific cyberattack threat. The fact that U.S. companies are scanning their websites and hunting for vulnerabilities may indicate an increase in vulnerability-hunting activities. 

On Thursday, the Biden administration released its nationally comprehensive cybersecurity strategy. This provides the steps required to ensure the nation's cyber ecosystem is protected from threats. 

A few key pillars will be emphasized in the strategy as it moves forward. In addition to cyberattacks, these efforts include disrupting and dismantling cyber criminals, establishing international partnerships, and protecting critical infrastructure from cyberattacks. 

The White House will still need to implement Space Policy Directive 5. This was issued by the previous administration in September 2020 and focuses on space systems protection. Although the updated document replaces the Trump administration's 2018 cybersecurity strategy, the White House will continue to implement that strategy. 

It was stated in the strategy that the first pillar will enhance cybersecurity requirements for critical sectors. This will secure critical infrastructure. Public-private partnerships and federal network modernization will also be formed to keep up with cyber security threats. 

It has been interesting to see bipartisan support for several cyber bills that Congress introduced and passed last year aimed at protecting critical infrastructure. These include critical infrastructure in the health and energy sectors. 

Moreover, Kemba Walden suggested that the government should utilize all resources at its disposal, including the military and law enforcement authorities. This will disrupt malicious cyber activity and pursue perpetrators. 

Walden assumed the role of acting director after Chris Inglis resigned due to health reasons. Biden named Inglis as the first director of cyber security for the nation in 2021 following a nomination by Biden. Inglis announced his resignation in mid-February.  

There is a second pillar of the strategy that focuses on disrupting and dismantling cyber criminals, such as nation-state threats.

To protect the country's national security and public safety, the government uses every available resource to "make it harder for them to pose a threat to national security." 

Increasing collaboration and partnership with foreign partners who share the same mission is the third pillar of the strategy. The administration announced today that to counter cyberattacks it will use international coalitions among "like-minded nations." 

SPD 5 was touted as a first step toward developing an accurate and comprehensive security policy for satellites and systems that connect them to the Internet. 

The role that space systems play as vital infrastructure, as well as providers of essential services, has caused experts to warn that a growing number of attacks are being launched against them. 

A major thrust of the National Cybersecurity Strategy is the realignment of incentives so that long-term investments are prioritized. It has been suggested in recent years that the biggest, most capable, and best-positioned actors in the digital ecosystem - whether in the public or private sectors - can and should take on an increased share of the burden to mitigate cyber risk in their respective industries. Public and private sector entities must have the resources, capabilities, and incentives to choose long-term solutions over temporary fixes when faced with trade-offs between short-term fixes and long-term solutions. 

In addition, the United States remains committed to international cyber partnerships. Defendable, resilient, and value-aligned digital ecosystems will be built with allies and partners. Keeping shared interests at the forefront means promoting an environment where all states are expected to behave responsibly in global cyberspace. On the other hand, a person who displays irresponsible behavior is not only a source of cost but also isolation.

A path is outlined in this strategy to ensure our digital future is secure. By implementing it, the administration will lay the foundation for reliable cyberinfrastructure. This will enable it to achieve its infrastructure, clean energy, equity, democracy, and economic opportunity goals. At the most fundamental level, it acknowledges that cyberspace exists not for its own sake but only to be used in pursuit of our highest goals.   
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