2 min read
Guarding Your Digital Garden: Strategies Against Cyberthreats
The cyber landscape is like a garden in springtime, full of potential and growth. But amidst this beauty lurks some unwelcome guests: cybercriminals. And unfortunately, these bad weeds seem to be blooming faster than ever.
In the past twelve months, research suggests that the time it takes for these nogoodniks to move within a network has decreased by about 26%. It’s like these invasive plants are blossoming overnight.
But wait, there’s more!
Just when you thought you’d been tending the cybersecurity of your small- or medium-sized business thoroughly, there’s more trouble sprouting up. Research has identified 34 new cybercriminal groups, making the total count over 230. These aren’t just your ordinary dandelions; they’re growing smarter and more sophisticated by the day.
The Human Factor: Vulnerable Petals
Like delicate petals swaying in the breeze, your employees can sometimes be the most vulnerable entry point for cyberattacks. Ne’er do wells often trade on human error, using tactics like phishing emails and social engineering—manipulating people into sharing information they shouldn't share, downloading software they shouldn't download, visiting websites they shouldn't visit, etc.—to trick unsuspecting victims.
Tending Your SMB’s Cyber Garden
But fear not! If you read this blog often, you know there are steps you can take to protect your small- or medium-sized business from these cyberthreats. Let’s recap.
- Educate Your Gardeners
It’s crucial to educate your team about the dangers lurking in the company’s cyber garden. Regular training sessions can help them identify and avoid common pests.
- Strengthen Your Garden Gates
Just as you would erect deer fencing to keep out your friendly neighbourhood cervine guests, it’s essential to implement strong password policies (not just suggest it). Encourage the use of complex passwords and consider adding an extra layer of security with multi-factor authentication (MFA). This is the first line of defence that will discourage the laziest of the intruders.
- Keep Your Garden Fresh
Staying up to date is key. Make sure to keep all your SMB software and systems updated with the latest security patches. This helps prevent cybercriminals from exploiting known vulnerabilities.
- Invest in Cybersecurity Tools
Consider shelling out for reputable cybersecurity tools that can detect and mitigate threats in real time; it’s like posting a guard at the gate.
- Backup Your Blooms
Lastly, don’t forget to regularly backup your company data—think of it as a seed bank. This way, even if disaster strikes you can still replant.
In the ever-changing landscape of cyberthreats, it’s so important to tend to your small- or medium-sized business garden with care and vigilance. By taking proactive steps to protect your digital assets, you can ensure that your garden continues to bloom and thrive in the cyber spring.
We offer expert advice, meticulous planning and seamless execution that can keep your business from being an easy mark for these evolving criminal minds. Get in touch to see what we can do for your local business.
