Cybersecurity Month 2023: Safeguarding Your Business in the Digital World
With the arrival of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, it’s important to keep in mind that each and every one of us plays a role in protecting our sensitive information in today’s interconnected world. In the midst of increasing complexity and occurrence of cyber-attacks, let this month serve as a reminder that we all share the responsibility to safeguard our organizations; we ALL play a role in assuring cybersecurity.
The Escalation of Cyber Threats
The continued surge in cyber threats faced by all industries in recent years was amplified by the accelerated global shift towards remote work and digital collaboration. This trend has redefined the security perimeter, while cyber threats have surged by 600% since the onset of the COVID pandemic. Notably, ransomware attacks have experienced a significant increase – as much as 148% in 2022 alone. These statistics aren’t mere numbers; they pose a substantial challenge to the very foundation of B2B operations. Disruption to operations caused by cybersecurity incidents rival what has long been the most worrisome outcome of cyberattack – the breach of sensitive data.
The Dark Web – Safe Haven for Cyber Criminals
The hidden corners of the internet known as the dark web serve as a safe haven and operating platform for cybercriminals. It’s worth noting that the number of individuals frequenting this realm is just under 3 million. Within this domain, unlawful transactions take place, stolen data is exchanged, and clandestine services are offered. As a result, safeguarding information and intellectual property has become increasingly challenging for enterprises of all kinds.
Social Engineering’s Deceptive Techniques
Cybersecurity is of course not limited to just attacks that exploit technology, just as cybersecurity controls are not limited to those of a technical nature. More and more, threats to cybersecurity are borne from human vulnerabilities. Social engineering attacks in which human beings are manipulated into unwittingly taking specific actions on behalf of the attacker continue to top of the list in terms of successful attack vectors. Phishing emails remain a favored and reliable weapon of choice by attackers. The ever-increasing sophistication of these attacks and the additional layers that have been incorporated to form pretexting attacks reveal two certainties: 1) the human being behind the workstation remain the softest target for cyber attackers and 2) it is incumbent upon us in establishing cyber defenses to arm the workforce with ever higher levels of awareness.
Preparedness: The Path to Business Resilience
Amidst these digital challenges, there exists an opportunity for businesses to proactively safeguard their interests. Cybersecurity Month comes as a timely reminder to take inventory of our practices and strengthen our defenses.
Implementing such as regular software updates, utilizing multifactor authentication methods, and staying informed about emerging threats can significantly bolster cybersecurity. Perhaps the most straightforward actions that can be taken involve raising staff awareness of cyber threats and implementing and becoming proficient with incident response procedures. As the complexity of cyber attacks increase, the basics – awareness and ability to quickly respond to attack – only increase in importance. As the saying goes: “forewarned is forearmed!”
Act Now!
Connect with Latitude for a comprehensive suite of cybersecurity solutions, including cutting-edge employee training, customized vishing and phishing exercises, and development and testing of comprehensive incident response plans.
With the right strategies and a proactive approach, organizations can confidently navigate the digital terrain, safeguarding their assets and maintaining a resilient business ecosystem. Don’t hesitate – strengthen your cybersecurity posture with Latitude…and rest easier.
Stay tuned for more content as Cybersecurity Awareness Month continues…
