In our rapidly evolving technological landscape, heightened awareness and proactive measures have become imperative. Safeguarding sensitive information is not merely the IT team’s responsibility; it’s a collective effort that involves every individual, safeguarding both their organisation’s data and their own.

As we step into October, it’s time to highlight the significance of Cybersecurity Awareness Month. This annual initiative serves as a timely reminder of the diverse approaches available to protect data. Even adhering to the fundamentals can substantially bolster the security of your systems.

October is the international Cybersecurity Awareness Month. It serves as a timely reminder that there are many ways to safeguard data. Following the basics can make a big difference in how secure your systems remains.

What Is Cybersecurity Awareness Month?

Cybersecurity Awareness Month (CAM) is an annual event held throughout October, dedicated to promoting cybersecurity awareness and education. Its primary objective is to empower individuals and organisations by providing them with knowledge and resources, enabling them to fortify their defenses against cyber threats.

CAM originated as a U.S. initiative known as National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and it has evolved into a international effort involving a wide array of stakeholders. Government agencies, industry leaders, and cybersecurity experts unite to raise awareness about cyber risks and promote best practices.

This Year’s Theme

This is CAM’s 20th year. To celebrate, the theme revolves around looking at how far cybersecurity has come. As well as how far it has to go. This year, CAM focuses on four key best practices of cybersecurity.

These are:

• Enabling multi-factor authentication
• Using strong passwords and a password manager
• Updating software
• Recognising and reporting phishing

Let’s take a closer look at these four best practices of good cyber hygiene.

Essential Cyber Hygiene: 4 Keys to a Strong Defense

Central to Cybersecurity Awareness Month is the promotion of essential cyber hygiene practices. We follow good hygiene to maintain physical health. For example, we brush our teeth every day.

Cybersecurity also requires ongoing good hygiene practices to secure the online environment. These practices form the foundation of a strong cybersecurity defense. They help both individuals and organizations.

Enabling Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Implementing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) adds a vital layer of security to all logins. In most cases, a hacker can’t breach an account protected by MFA. This is the case even if the cyber crook has the password.

According to Microsoft, MFA can block 99.9% of attempted account compromise attacks. With that strong track record, everyone really should be using it. And using it on every login they have.

Strong Passwords & a Password Manager

Passwords remain a critical aspect of securing online accounts. Despite the increased use of biometrics, passwords still rule. Encourage your team members to use strong, unique passwords for each account. Avoid easily guessable information like birthdays or names.

Companies can help by setting strong password enforcement rules. This requires a strong password before it’s accepted in a system. For example, you may set up a policy that requires a password to have:

• At least 12 characters
• At least 1 upper case letter
• At least 1 lower case letter
• At least 1 number
• At least 1 symbol

Updating Software

Outdated software creates vulnerabilities that cybercriminals can exploit. Regularly update operating systems, applications, and firmware. This ensures the latest security patches are in place.

Automating updates is a good way to ensure they’re done promptly. Companies can use endpoint device managers to handle updates across all employee devices. Managers like Intune simplify the process and enhance endpoint security.

Recognising and Reporting Phishing

Phishing attacks are a common vector for cyber threats. Train your team to identify phishing emails, suspicious links, and unsolicited attachments. Encourage them to verify the sender’s email address. As well as never provide sensitive information unless certain of the recipient’s authenticity.

It’s also important to educate employees about phishing beyond email. Phishing via text messages has been increasing significantly. Some criminals phish via direct messages on social media platforms.

Another important aspect of phishing awareness is to report phishing. If it’s reported, then other employees know to avoid that phishing trap. The organisation’s IT team also needs to know so they can take action to mitigate the threat. Be sure to let employees know how they can report a phishing email when they suspect one.

We Can Help You Put the Best Cyber Hygiene Practices in Place

CAM offers a valuable opportunity to refocus on the significance of cybersecurity. As well as prioritising essential cyber hygiene practices. Building a culture of cybersecurity awareness within your team is important. It can be the difference between vulnerability and resilience.

Need some help ensuring a more secure and resilient future? Our team of experts can get you going on the basics. Once those are in place, your organisation will be more productive and much more secure.

Have Confidence in Your Cyber Security & Cyber Resilience

MyITmanager are leaders in the provision of cyber security services and building cyber resilience to help businesses manage risk and grow with confidence.

We use industry best-practices to:

• identify your current cyber risk profile
• collaborate with you to create a personalised roadmap
• and work with you to implement your roadmap
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If you would like to protect your business and build resilience, get in touch. Book a FREE 30 minute consultation here.

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This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.