Organizations seeking to implement effective data protection can sometimes get overwhelmed by a laundry list of good ideas and sometimes overlook the significance of effective encryption and the role that encryption can play as the backstop to prevent data breach when all other measures fail.
No organisation can afford to ignore any sensible cybersecurity measures that can improve its protection, it is important to understand that getting encryption protection right provides a general defence and thus should be prioritized ahead of other measures.
A typical list of ‘good’ cybersecurity measures may include:
- Strong Passwords: Using complex and unique passwords for online accounts to prevent unauthorized access.
- Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Adding an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, often a code sent to a mobile device.
- Regular Software Updates: Keeping operating systems, applications, and antivirus software up to date to patch vulnerabilities.
- Firewalls: Employing firewalls to monitor and control network traffic, blocking unauthorized access and potential threats.
- Antivirus Software: Installing and regularly updating antivirus programs to detect and remove malware.
- Secure Wi-Fi: Using strong encryption protocols like WPA3 for home Wi-Fi networks and changing default router passwords.
- Phishing Awareness: Being cautious about unsolicited emails, messages, and links to avoid falling for phishing scams.
- Data Encryption: Encrypting sensitive data both in transit (e.g., using HTTPS) and at rest (e.g., transparent data encryption, folder encryption, full-disk encryption).
- Backup and Recovery: Regularly backing up important data to recover it in case of ransomware attacks or data loss.
- User Training: Educating oneself and employees about cybersecurity best practices, recognizing threats, and avoiding risky behaviors.
- Privacy Settings: Reviewing and adjusting privacy settings on social media and other online platforms to limit personal information exposure.
- Multi-Layered Security: Implementing multiple security layers, such as intrusion detection systems and email filtering, to protect against various threats.
- Security Updates for IoT Devices: Keeping Internet of Things (IoT) devices updated and changing default credentials to prevent breaches.
- Safe Browsing Habits: Avoiding suspicious websites, downloading files from trusted sources, and using a secure web browser.
- Incident Response Plan: Developing a plan to respond effectively to cybersecurity incidents and breaches.
- Regular Audits: Periodically reviewing and auditing systems and networks for vulnerabilities and weaknesses.
- Network Segmentation: Separating networks to limit the lateral movement of attackers within an organization.
- Zero Trust Security: Adopting a “never trust, always verify” approach, where no one is trusted by default, and access is granted based on strict authentication and authorization.
- Penetration Testing: Conducting ethical hacking tests to identify and fix vulnerabilities before attackers can exploit them.
- Cyber Insurance: Purchasing cybersecurity insurance to mitigate financial losses in case of a cyberattack.
Encryption stands alone amongst these measures as the single data protection measure that can prevent data breach if all other measures fail.
