Cybersecurity threats are a constant concern for companies of all sizes, and the risks of a data breach can be devastating. To protect against these threats, companies need to implement security measures. Here are 11 Security Tool Fundamentals every company, big or small, should have in place today for fundamental cybersecurity.
11 Security Elements That Are Non-Negotiable
Separately Stored or Immutable Backups
Data backups are crucial for ensuring business continuity in the event of a cybersecurity incident. However, these backups can also be a target for cybercriminals. To mitigate this risk, companies should have isolated backups that are inaccessible from the environments they protect. This ensures that even if an attacker gains access to the company’s systems, they cannot access or destroy the backups.
Managed Detection and Response (MDR) Endpoint Security
Endpoint security is critical for protecting company devices, including desktops, laptops, and mobile devices, from cyber threats. Managed Detection and Response (MDR) is a security service that provides continuous monitoring of endpoints for threats and alerts companies to any suspicious activity. This proactive approach can help companies prevent attacks before they cause damage.
> What Is Managed Detection & Response (MDR) and How It Has Protected Our Business
E-mail Threat Detection, Active Validation, and Group Security
Email is a common attack vector for cybercriminals, and phishing attacks can have devastating consequences. Companies should implement email threat detection and active validation to detect and block malicious emails. Group security can also be used to enforce stricter email policies on certain high-risk functions like accounting and prevent users from engaging with malicious emails.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for Microsoft 365
Microsoft 365 is a popular cloud-based productivity suite used by many companies. To protect against unauthorized access, companies should implement multi-factor authentication (MFA). MFA requires users to provide two or more forms of authentication, such as a password and a biometric factor, to access Microsoft 365. This can prevent attackers from accessing sensitive company data, even if they have stolen a user’s password.
> Why MFA Is Key to Your IT Security Defense
Multi-Factor Authentication for Interactive Access to Network Servers
Multi-factor authentication should also be implemented for interactive access to network servers. This ensures that only authorized users can access critical systems and data. MFA can prevent attackers from gaining access to sensitive data, even if they have stolen a user’s password.
Multi-Factor Authentication for Remote Access (If You Must Have It)
Remote access is increasingly common, especially with the rise of remote work. However, it also introduces additional security risks. If remote access is necessary, companies should implement multi-factor authentication to prevent unauthorized access to the company’s systems and data.
Security Awareness Training and Interactive Phishing Testing
One of the biggest cybersecurity risks is human error. Employees can inadvertently click on malicious links or share sensitive information. Security awareness training and interactive phishing testing can educate employees on cybersecurity best practices and help them recognize and avoid phishing attacks.
> Employee IT Security Awareness Training and Best Practices [Infographic]
Internet Content Filtering to Block Access to Known-Malicious Destinations
Internet content filtering can block access to known-malicious destinations, such as phishing sites or malware distribution sites. This can prevent employees from inadvertently accessing these sites and introducing malware into the company’s systems.
Dark Web Monitoring for Compromised User Credentials
The dark web is a marketplace for stolen data and credentials. Dark web monitoring can alert companies if any of their employees’ credentials have been compromised, allowing them to take action to prevent further damage.
> Your Data is on the Dark Web: Now What?
External Penetration Testing and Vulnerability Remediation
External penetration testing can identify vulnerabilities in a company’s systems and networks that could be exploited by attackers. Vulnerability remediation can then be used to address these vulnerabilities and prevent attackers from exploiting them.
> Understanding External Vulnerability Scans
Centralized Security Event Logging and Expert Monitoring through SOC + SIEM
A Security Operations Center (SOC) coupled with a Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) system can provide companies with centralized security event logging and expert monitoring. This enables companies to monitor their systems in real-time, detect potential security threats, and respond quickly to any incidents. SOC + SIEM can also provide insights into the company’s security posture, allowing them to continuously improve their security measures.
> SOC and SIEM: What They Are & Why You Need Both for a Strong Defense
Does your company need every tool on this list? Maybe. That is a business choice that you must make relative to your environment, your business, and what’s a “risk” to you.
Watch 2023 State of Cybersecurity | You Will Be Breached
Learn about today’s threats, how to effectively manage your cyber risk, and 4 steps you can take today to prepare your business from what’s coming next: 2023 State of Cybersecurity | You Will Be Breached