Cyber security is crucial for business
THE Covid-19 pandemic has rendered individuals and society vulnerable in many respects.
During this crisis, most of us in the Garden County are relying more than ever on computer systems, mobile devices and the internet to work, communicate, shop, share and receive information and otherwise reduce the impact of social distancing. However, this ‘new’ normal has its own challenges, including an increased risk of cyber crime. Last month, tech giant Google said it had blocked 18 million hoax emails about Covid-19 to Gmail users each day.
Without the usual workplace safeguards, there is a need for businesses to take steps to protect against cyber attacks. Such steps can include encouraging staff to use sufficiently complex passwords to access systems remotely, using multi-factor authentication and keeping up with software and anti-virus updates.
Keeping staff up to date through data security training is also another approach businesses can take. Some may find it useful to train staff to spot phishing or social engineering contacts that aim to get staff to reveal sensitive information and can be very convincing.
Businesses should talk to their staff and make them aware that speed is crucial when it comes to the reporting of any cyber incidents; from a lost phone to a stolen laptop or clicking on a strange email attachment, or anything else that raises a concern.
Being able to assess the situation quickly and organising a suitable response may help to maintain a level of security, reduce losses, speed up recovery and increase the chances of a perpetrator being caught.
Some businesses are also exploring the option of cyber insurance. Aaron Travers of Travers and Co Insurances, said they have received a high number of enquiries about cyber insurance in recent weeks.
Cyber insurance can offer supports including crisis management, breach response, business interruption and advice to businesses experiencing a data security incident. He said Travers and Co Insurances has produced a guide to cyber insurance. For further information email info@ travers.ie or visit www.travers.ie.