Since 2004, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the National Cyber Security Alliance have used the month of October to spread awareness about cybersecurity issues. To help you celebrate your own digital safety, we’ve compiled a list of 10 actions you can take today.
Apply system updates.
This involves applying patches to your operating system to rectify security vulnerabilities. Consider auto-updates on some programs.
Ensure firmware updates.
Update the core software on your hardware devices to help eliminate device-level security flaws.
Confirm antivirus and anti-malware protection.
Detect and block threats such as viruses and ransomware by utilizing antivirus software.
Enact cloud service patch management.
Consult with your IT department to ensure security settings and access controls are current.
Deploy application software upgrades.
Outdated software is vulnerable software. Install the latest versions of each for vital security fixes and patches.
Verify web browser and plugin updates.
Keep your web browser safe from attacks by ensuring the browser is up to date, and plugins are current and fully functional. Uninstall plugins and extensions that are unneeded.
Enforce mobile device management.
Use tools to enforce security policies, require personal device updates, and ensure that company data is secure on employee-owned mobile devices.
Update firewall and network hardware.
Maintain current firmware on firewalls.
Mandate password authentication.
Require employees to utilize multi-factor authentication to verify their identity when accessing crucial systems and services.
Backup and disaster recovery systems.
Maintain independent and tested copies of critical company data to allow for expedient restoration after a ransomware attack or other major cybersecurity incident.
You Don’t Have to Party Alone
Celebrating Cybersecurity Awareness Month is not something that you have to do on your own. ITC can help. Our digital security experts can help customize a network security solution that fits your business’s needs. You’ll enjoy the peace of mind of having a managed IT company by your side.
Contact ITC today for more information on how to protect your business from current and upcoming threats so that you can be digitally aware this and every Cybersecurity Awareness Month.
