From the technology industry to retail, businesses of all sizes face increasing security risks as a result of the fast-paced, evolving technological environment.
From defending the hybrid work environment to getting control of your JML process, security risks are present throughout your business. As frightening as they might seem, it’s always best to keep your eyes wide open and address security issues head-on if you’re to avoid possible disasters. Unfortunately, some risks fly just under the radar, staying out of sight.
- Mismanaged MFA
While many businesses are aware of the importance of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) as a basic security measure, a common oversight is often the assumption that MFA is only necessary for core systems that hold important data. However, the reality is that all systems and apps should be protected by MFA. To overcome this security risk, you’ll need a complete review of all apps and systems that should have MFA enabled, and then enforce its adoption with deadlines across all departments.
- Too Many Admins Spoil the Broth
Admin accounts keep your IT infrastructure running, making them an intriguing target for malicious third parties. Minimising admin access – both in terms of what can be accessed and the number of admin roles – should be at the top of any security-driven agenda, though swelling admin numbers and unmitigated access very often go unnoticed.
- Tangled JML Processes
The JML process as a whole has security considerations. Risks include new employees not being up to date with security training, permissions not being updated, and third parties having access to business information after leavers depart. Although automated processes and departmental collaboration can shine a light on the issue, there are often multiple threads to untangle first.
- Unsafe Devices
Just as remote working has brought with it many advantages, this new way of working has also introduced us all to new security considerations. Suddenly, more businesses than ever need to be concerned about employees connecting to unsecured networks, leaving devices in coffee shops, or just generally going untrained in the ways of good security. Establishing a clear hybrid work policy, automated software updates, and a revamped training offer can make all the difference.
- Don’t Forget to Lock the Door
One security risk that stares us right in the eye (but somehow still gets overlooked) is something we should all be used to by now: securing the office. Unauthorised access, passwords on post-it notes, and devices left unlocked can all lead to theft, vandalism, and series data breaches. As old fashioned as it might seem at a time of hybrid working, making sure your employees understand the importance of clean desk policies and physical security is just as important as password hygiene in the cloud.
- Everything Missing from Your Secure Score
Microsoft Secure Score is a measurement of a business’s security posture, with a higher number indicating more recommended actions taken. Not following up on these recommendations can leave your business at risk and falling behind your competitors. Improving your Secure Score by configuring suggested security features and completing security related tasks can lock down your business, all the while reassuring your employees that they’re doing their bit for security.
As with most scary things in life, prioritising and confronting security risks directly can quickly take all the horror out of them. Start with good insights and a smart review of your current posture, then build a plan to mitigate and manage – you’ll quickly find that bringing threats into the light can really bolster your organisation’s confidence.
Want to delve deeper into your business environment to highlight possible security risks? Contact Surveil today to get started.
