5 Ways to Improve Your Cybersecurity Posture

What is cybersecurity posture?

Cybersecurity posture refers to an organization’s overall defense against cyber-attacks. Your cybersecurity posture encompasses any security policies in place, employee training programs, or security solutions you have deployed, from malware to anti-virus. It is the collective security status of all software and hardware, services, networks, and information, and how secure you are as a result of those tools and processes. These 5 steps will help your company stay safe, and maintain a strong cybersecurity posture.

1. Two-Factor Authentication

Two-Factor Authentication is the current standards for adding extra layer of protection to existing system and account logins. 45% of polled businesses began using 2FA in 2018. Compared to 25% the year prior. Biometrics like fingerprints, voice, or even iris scans are also options, as are physical objects like keycards. Complete security usually demands multiple authentication methods: something you know (like a password), something you have (like your phone for 2FA), and something you are (like a fingerprint or other biometric).

 

2. Data Encryption

Encrypted data is formatted using a key, storing or transmitting it in such a way that if would be meaningless if intercepted. It is one of the most efficient ways to secure a database given that decryption can only take place with the correct key.

 

3. Access Monitoring

In addition to encryption, the client data you store should be protected from unauthorized access:

• A firewall is a particular type of solution that maintains the security of your network. It blocks unauthorized users from gaining access to your data. Firewalls are deployed via hardware, software, or a combination of the two.
• Intrusion Detection. One of the only surefire ways to protect your network and data is to actively watch over it. A Security Operations Center (SOC) can monitor your network traffic around the clock and respond to any intrusion attempts in real time.

 

4. Password Hygiene

• Length and Complexity. The easier it is for you to remember a password, the easier it’ll be for a hacker to crack.
• Personal Information. Password recovery systems use personal details to verify a user’s identity – unfortunately, with widespread use of social media, it’s not difficult for hackers to research a target through Facebook to determine when they were born, information about their family, personal interests, etc.
• Numbers, Case, and Symbols. While it may be easier to remember a password that’s all lower-case letters, it’s important to mix in numbers, capitals, and symbols in order to increase the complexity,
• Avoid Patterns and Sequences. “abc123”, or the first row of letters on the keyboard, “qwerty”, etc., are extremely easy for hackers to guess.

 

5. Avoid Dangerous Emails

Always exercise caution when it comes to clicking on a link or downloading an attachment. Be careful even if the email seems to be coming from a known source or even from within your organization as email addresses are often spoofed:

• Be wary of links and attachments in email messages. They may contain malware that can infect your computer.
• Confirm the real sender of the message. The company name in the “From” field should match the address. Also, watch for addresses that contain typographical errors or lookalike domains like “janedoemicrosofthelp.com”.
• Hover over the URL in the email to view the full address. If you don’t recognize it, or if all the URLs in the email are the same, phishing is likely.

 

Cybersecurity is as complex as it is essential. Most low firms don’t have the resources (or the desire) to handle everything on their own. A knowledgeable IT services company can make all the difference. An IT provider with a proven track record of cybersecurity success can help you develop a cybersecurity plan capable of defending your law firm and your clients against hackers.

At mPowered IT, we have the experience and solutions needed to keep you safe through this year’s challenges and beyond. To learn more reach out to us at 678–389–6200 or schedule a free zero obligation consultation here.