As global technology touches new heights so do opportunities and risks. With over a billion people staying remotely connected, professionals can find it harrowing to cover the grounds of IT and security. This has been said and repeated by some of the leading experts of the industry. In this article, we will break down the top 20 tips you can incorporate this year under your 2020 IT and Cybersecurity goals.
Charles Eagan, CTO, BlackBerry said – “In 2020, we will see the most significant implementation of AI to date, with this technology being used to not only proactively monitor and fight advanced threats, but also secure users in zero-trust environments as they share critical information across countless endpoints in the IoT. It’s no longer about siloed threat prevention and endpoint management, but rather dynamic (friction-less) solutions that combine these offerings to remove human error from the equation, while simultaneously learning, adapting and empowering end-users to be productive, safe and collaborative”.
As Charles put it AI has turned into one of the core aspects of technology in the last few years, but as more companies use AI so will hackers in order to use AI to hack through systems. Here is some measure to secure your AI services and other related Cybersecurity threats.
2020 IT and Cybersecurity tips-
- 5G enables data protection
5G is poised to become the new 4G. Which means the new technology will bring with it new risks. What can you do to avoid any threats that come with it?
First, research and learn about your 5G network environment. Second, set up protocols in place using the companies 5G equipment. And finally, consult with service providers to configure and update your 5G usage.
- Data and technology meet corporate governance
Insecure application User Interface, hacking Malware attack, data breach, cloud abuse, these are just some of the threat’s cybersecurity faced in 2019. In 2020 the goal would be to incorporate a system of Corporate Governance. Which means hiring a full-time Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), following IT regulations and laws and keeping your cybersecurity in updated form and peak condition.
- Internet of things security (IoT)
A rapid surge in the use of IoT means a lot of sensitive data that would need protection. Botnets, Denial of service, identity and data theft, remote recording and Ransomware are just a few of the most talked-about security breaches in 2019. In 2020 create security measures using both physical and digital methods, educate yourself on best practices relating to IoT security.
- Known Security Vulnerabilities should be immediately re-mediated
A large part of data breaches happens due to ignoring known security vulnerabilities with doable remediation. Creating enforceable actions for these vulnerabilities along with periodic security assessments are recommended actions. Along with this, update your network with patches that protect your system from known breach points.
- Watch your Web Browser
Many web-apps and websites don’t enforce sophisticated security measures. Using unpatched JavaScripts and third-party codes make your system vulnerable to hackers. Avoid this by laying out clear web browsing policies at your work. Cover your web browser within your cybersecurity plans and prohibit access to sites and apps with known vulnerabilities.
- Business Email Compromise (BEC) is a complex threat
Known as “Impersonation attacks” these are hard to detect and pose a serious threat to businesses of all sizes. BEC threats cannot be prevented by securing endpoints alone. User awareness and comprehensive Email security solution should be implemented on all business accounts.
- Fight Artificial Intelligence (AI) Security threats
Professional criminal networks use sophisticated Al and Machine Learning (ML) to identify and exploit vulnerabilities and carry out cyberattacks. Adopting AI and ML cybersecurity solutions can help tackle this threat. AI and ML can study user patterns and provide advanced protection. These systems proactively identify security vulnerabilities to protect your network.
- Prepare to invest in Data Privacy
With strict laws and regulations around Data Privacy, 2020 will see businesses clamber to get their Data Privacy act together. Stay educated on Data Privacy laws and regulations impacting your industry. Take measures to comply with regulations to avoid heft penalties. Consult Data Privacy experts to develop comprehensive protection plans.
- Security is a key factor when evaluating a Cloud Provider
Are you looking to migrate to the Cloud? Security should be the prime factor when evaluating a Cloud Provider. Get a detailed evaluation on available out of the box premium security features. Cost, support, scalability can be secondary decision-making factors. Cloud provider’s security will not be enough, adopting extra security measures for internal cloud environment should be kept in mind too.
- Automation is Key to Efficiency and Enhanced Security
Hackers have reached a sophisticated level. Businesses must use automation to limit potential human error and increase efficiency by eliminating redundant manual processes. Automate scanning for websites, connected devices, and applications. Replace repetitive manual processes with automation. Create awareness among users to encourage and embrace automation of networks.
- Hire a full-time or part-time Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
Data security is no longer a preventative business function. It plays a key role in business success. Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) can help businesses achieve data integrity and security stability. Your business size isn’t a factor while considering a full-time or part-time CISO. In some cases, compliance regulations make it mandatory to hire a CISO. You can also check with your Managed Service provider if they provide virtual CISO services.
- Empowered Workforce are the Best Defense Against Cyber Risk
Data breach can often be traced back to a security lapse at your workforce level. Empower your workforce with the right tools, technology, and education to fight data breach at the roots. Share cyber security accountability with Executives and Workforce. Consider security measures for all technology related decision-making. Develop and implement task force to report security incidents.
- Cyber Risk Agenda on Executive Table
Cyber risk incidents have severe impact on organisations’ operations, brands, and bottom line. 2020 should see Cyber Risk on top executive agenda. Invest in the right people and technology to mitigate cyber risks. Include Cyber Risk Management in your Corporate Strategy. Recruit Full-time /Part-time Chief information security officer (CISO).
- Strategic Backup and Disaster Recovery Planning
Having a backup and disaster recovery solution in place is a good first step. However, businesses need to strategically plan and develop a comprehensive data retention model. Some data are more critical and sensitive than others. Prioritize by discovering, identifying and tagging critical business data. Developing simulation environment to test business and recovery is a good start too.
- Small Business continue to be the Prime Target for Ransomware
Outdated Windows Server with known vulnerabilities will be a common factor for many small businesses to be the prime target of Ransomware attacks in 2020. The question is not if Ransomware will attack your infrastructure but when will it attack. Being proactive will help you prepare better to fight Ransomware. Make it a routine to update your information system security measures.
- Cloud Security is a Shared Responsibility
Cloud service providers offer advance security measures. However, users must ensure additional security to identify vulnerabilities within their cloud Infrastructure. Review your cloud service providers security plans. Make efforts to bridge gaps in internal cloud environment. Follow regulations as applicable to strengthen data security.
- Beware of Deepfake Voice Technology
Scammers use the technology to mimic executives voice and call employees to transfer money or reveal sensitive information. Train your staff and raise awareness on this issue. Include Deepfake in your Cybersecurity Program for 2020.
- Ransomware, to Pay or Not?
Ransomware is likely to get more sophisticated and targeted. Hackers will target automatic backup solution to remove or alter the backup files itself. Keep your network up-to-date. Don’t just rely on a Backup Solution. Develop a Backup Strategy. Regularly run a companywide drill to identify weak-links.
- Cellular Security, is your Mobile Secure?
Growing number of attacks originating through cellular endpoints shouldn’t be ignored by your cyber security radar. Include Cellular Security in your Cybersecurity Program. Use technology solutions to strengthen security measures and train educate your staff on the best practices.
- Overlook Insider Threats at your Own Risk
Irrespective of whether the intention was accidental or with malicious intent, insider threats result in data leaks and expose vulnerabilities. Use technology to identify high risk users those may not be following security protocols. Take additional measures to better protect data from getting leaked or stolen. Develop a strong user awareness training program and perform random security assessments.
