Cyber Security Basics: Protecting Yourself and Your Business

In our increasingly online and data drive world, cyber threats pose significant risks to individuals and businesses alike. Whether you’re safeguarding your personal accounts and information or an owner of a company, understanding the fundamentals of cyber security is crucial.

In this blog you will receive insights and tips into how to mitigate risks and navigate the cyber security landscape.

Personal Cyber Security Tips

1. Stay Informed
   Regularly educate yourself about common cyber threats. Familiarise yourself with phishing scams, ransomware, and social media tactics that want to obtain your personal identifiable information
   Stay updated on the latest security risks affecting Australians. Follow reputable sources such as the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) for alerts and guidance.
2. Automatic Updates
   Enable automatic updates for your devices (computers, phones, tablets).
   Updates patch software vulnerabilities that cybercriminals exploit. Keeping your software current is essential.
3. Strong Passwords
   Use unique, complex passwords for each account
   Utilising a password manager to assist in keeping your login details secure for the multitude of online accounts we all use is the recommended way to keep your data safe. Having one complex password to login and then having the application generate highly complex passwords for each account makes managing this a lot easier. Last Pass is one example of this.
4. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
   Enable MFA wherever possible. It adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification (such as a text message or authentication app such as Microsoft Authenticator.
5. Be Wary of Scams
   Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.
   Be cautious with emails, texts, and calls requesting personal information. Verify the sender’s legitimacy before you engage further and always be cautious.

Business Cyber Security Strategies

1. Ensure your IT Company is providing regular updates on your Cyber Security posture
   Ensure your IT partner is providing regular schedule updates to management ensuring that you are increasing your security and reducing risk against cyber security benchmarks
   Password Management, Multi Factor Authentication, Cyber Security Training, End Point Protection, Dark Web Monitoring and Data Backups/Business Continuity Plans are all key services your IT Company should be implementing as a minimum.
2. Cyber Security Audit and Risk Assessment
   Identify potential threats specific to your business.
   Regularly assess vulnerabilities and prioritise mitigation efforts.
   Larger organisations with higher risk profiles would be recommended to undertake penetration testing from an independent firm to review any risks or gaps in your security.
3. Cyber Security Policy
   Develop a comprehensive policy for employees.
   Outline security practices, acceptable use, incident response procedures, and consequences for non-compliance.
4. NIST Cybersecurity Framework and Essential 8
   Consider adopting the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, a widely recognised set of guidelines and best practices.
   The framework provides a structured approach to managing and reducing cyber risks and provides business owners with clear objectives and strategies.
   Understanding the Australian Governments guide to Cyber Security and the Essential 8 guidelines in your business.
5. Employee Training
   Regularly train employees on security best practices with short videos followed by multi choice questions.
   Conduct simulated phishing exercises to raise awareness and improve staff resilience against ever changing threats.
6. Consider Cyber Insurance
   Explore insurance options that cover cyber-related losses, including legal fees, data recovery costs, and business interruption.

Summary

The insights and tips provided above should for a basic guide to navigating Cyber Security on personal level and if you’re a business owner it will provide a guide as to some of the core things to cover off on a tick off your security checklist.

We all work hard to achieve our goals and protecting our personal information and business and financial details. Keep educated on the latest trends, utilising the right tools and staying vigilant will go along way to ensuring Cyber Criminals are kept from your key personal identifiable information.

Should you wish to understand more and undertake an IT Audit or Security Review be sure to reach out to Qbit or fill out the FREE IT Audit form on the website.