By this time of year, Santa has nearly wrapped up his list, but have you started yours?
We’re all busy and no stranger to lists when it comes to getting things done efficiently and completely. You probably have a list for your gifting, a grocery list for the big family meal, and even a to-do list of critical tasks to finish at the office before you head home for the holidays.
This year, consider adding just one more list to your arsenal: A cybersecurity checklist is one quick way to see if your company’s cybersecurity program is naughty or nice.
Business owners, operators, managers, and IT resources alike know the importance of cybersecurity. There are a ton of resources and tools out there to help with protection, but it can be tough to know where to start.
Even if a cybersecurity program is in place, it’s important to evaluate it frequently and make sure all bases are covered:
Protecting yourself holistically and effectively
Taking full advantage of all tools and components
Tackling any next steps realizing improvement
Maintaining security as an ongoing posture, not a project
Running through a checklist periodically is a great way to get a quick overview of your organization’s cybersecurity. Take a look at our recommended checklist here, covering many aspects of an ideal cybersecurity program and posture.
Program
Includes three key security layers: Foundation, Culture, and Technology
Runs 24/7/365 to protect your business
Provides visibility and ongoing recommendations
Operates in a model of continuous improvement
Foundation
Business and cybersecurity leaders know where the company stands
Dedicated employee takes responsibility for cybersecurity
Technology and Data Use Policy is in place, up-to-date, and enforced
Monitoring Dark Web and data dump repositories for compromised credentials
Ethical hackers regularly attempt to break into systems and report back findings
Incident Response Plan in place in case of an attack, breach, or other incident
Cyber insurance in place in case of a breach
Culture
Leadership on board and actively prioritizing cybersecurity
Company culture of cyber-defenders
Continuous employee education starting on Day 1
Regular employee testing through phishing simulations
Ongoing promotion of cybersecurity awareness through emails, posters, and flyers
Technology
Software updated for all devices and applications
State-of-the art protective defense in place, beyond traditional antivirus
Regular website scanning for security vulnerabilities, hacking, and other issues
Company, customer, and employee sensitive data secured and encrypted, both while at rest and over email
Mobile device protection with the ability to wipe, lock, or locate company phones
Network scanning and monitoring to check for security holes and attacks
A comprehensive, ongoing, cybersecurity program helps minimize the chance, and the potential damage, of an incident. So this holiday season—and all year round—remember to make your cybersecurity list and check it twice. Without question, this is one area you want to err on the side of nice!
Stay Safe,
Your Friends @ Defendify