Many people are still clueless when it comes to the value of information security for businesses. Many business leaders have a misconception that a password is enough to protect their information. Some even think that simple antivirus software is enough to ward off potential threats.
But statistics say otherwise. In 2021, hackers are using advanced tactics and ransomware. The unfortunate news is that their defenses are stronger too. Despite the pandemic, many hackers are still at it. Malicious emails are up to 600 percent. And experts estimate that a ransomware attack will occur every 11 seconds in 2021.
With technology, anything is possible, especially hackers. As much as businesses take steps to protect their intellectual property, it’s important to set aside the belief that no one can ever break into your data. The advancements of technologies result in rapidly renewing cyberattacks. Before you know it, your company might be at risk again.
Understanding Information Security
Information security, also known as infosec, focuses on the prevention of unauthorized confidentiality, access, destruction, disruption and modification of business information. Information can be in any form like non-digital or digital; it could be anything like your business data or confidential information on your mobile phone or computer.
Information security protects businesses and their data through secure systems and software to prevent malicious attacks.
Why You Should Take Information Security Seriously
Considering the importance of internal information and its contribution to the business’s equity, especially if it’s harmed, there might be a domino effect. This can trigger a series of unpleasant consequences, which include exposure of secrets, damage to the company’s image and more.
Disregarding digital security puts the entire business in danger. This threat also applies to many small and mid-sized businesses who think that their size does not make them a potential target. With bigger companies, losses due to a cyberattack can cause a shocking commotion and hardships. But for smaller companies, a cyberattack can end the business.
Information Security Threats to Detect
The first step to prevention is to know your enemy. Here are some of the top information security threats to watch out for:
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Malware
This is an infectious agent that attacks parts of the software or the entire software with malicious code. It can cause damage to data or devices within a company.
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Phishing
This attack often manifests as electronic fraud. One of the most classic ways of phishing is when a hacker impersonates a trusted individual in the company via email, which makes the targets easily click on infected links.
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Offline systems
Some systems take a while before they are taken down completely. So hackers create attacks that hit the stability of these systems, causing them to go offline. These crashes damage the business’s image and revenue.
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Attack on vulnerabilities
Criminals and hackers often look for vulnerabilities within businesses that can serve as the “jump point” of their attacks.
Having an infosec strategy and an IT department allow businesses to properly handle the security of their information. Fortunately, there are many tools that you can use to avoid security concerns, as well as ensure the confidentiality and integrity of your information.
What are the Advantages of Information Security?
There are several errors that can undermine the security of your data. This is why an information security management system is a must.
When you invest in a credible infosec system, you benefit from the following:
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Access control effectiveness
The market offers a variety of systems that allow access to certain information. This makes it easy for unauthorized people to access sensitive information or data. With a security system in place, you need not worry about hackers or criminals getting near your data. Some of these mechanisms are elaborate (e.g. digital signature) while others are physical (e.g. password-protected rooms).
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Solid security framework
Around external and internal communication, there should always be a solid security strategy to maintain a strong structure behind your data. The most important parties in your organization are your customers, so you don’t want to expose their data. Information security policies make sure that you and your customers have peace of mind.
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Backup storage
For any data, it’s important to have at least a backup stored in a different place in case of accidental or intentional deletions. Most information security systems store the backup in hard copies (e.g. CDs) or in the cloud.
The Bottom Line
Information security awareness is a crucial practice for businesses of all sizes. It protects company data by preventing vulnerabilities and threats. Instead of brushing off the security of your data, pay attention to it today.