Cybersecurity is critical for any business, but especially for tech companies handling sensitive data.
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While we at Sidechain Security often deal with larger businesses with highly sensitive data security needs, we also recognize that all companies need some help knowing what to do, and where to make a start with their data security needs. Sidechain is mostly known for managed data services for platforms such as Thales Ciphertrust, but we also want to use our skills to help all business owners, especially as the risks and data security issues become more complicated and prevalent.
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Here’s a checklist to get you started – feel free to contact us if you need help.
1. Employee Training & Awareness:
- Regular Security Training: Conduct mandatory cybersecurity training for all employees, covering topics like phishing scams, social engineering, password security, and data handling best practices. We can’t emphasize this point enough… as someone on Twitter said recently… “the biggest security risk in organizations is the humans”.
- Phishing Simulations: Conduct regular phishing simulations to test employee awareness and identify areas for improvement. Phishing has been a very prevalent issue for a long time, and people keep falling for it!
- Develop a Security Policy: Create and enforce a clear cybersecurity policy outlining acceptable and unacceptable employee behavior regarding technology use. Review this regularly, ensure staff are aware, and are engaging with this as well.
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2. Strong Passwords & Access Control:
- Enforce Strong Passwords: Implement a strong password policy, requiring complex passwords and regular changes.
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Implement MFA for all critical accounts (email, cloud services, etc.) to add an extra layer of security.
- Least Privilege Principle: Grant employees only the necessary access to systems and data for their job functions.
- Training: Ensure staff are constantly upskilled in this area of cybersecurity.
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3. Endpoint Security:
- Antivirus/Anti-malware: Install and maintain robust antivirus and anti-malware software on all devices.
- Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR): Consider implementing EDR solutions to monitor and respond to threats on endpoints.
- Mobile Device Management (MDM): Implement MDM solutions to manage and secure company-owned mobile devices.
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4. Data Security:
- Data Encryption: Encrypt sensitive data both in transit and at rest. Learn more about Data Encryption from Thales Ciphertrust HERE.
- Data Loss Prevention (DLP): Implement DLP solutions to prevent sensitive data from leaving the company network.
- Regular Data Backups: Conduct regular backups of critical data to a secure off-site location.
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5. Network Security:
- Firewall Protection: Implement a strong firewall to protect your network from external threats.
- Intrusion Detection/Prevention Systems (IDS/IPS): Deploy IDS/IPS systems to monitor network traffic for malicious activity.
- Regular Security Audits: Conduct regular security audits to identify and address potential vulnerabilities.
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6. Vendor Management:
- Third-Party Risk Assessments: Conduct security assessments of third-party vendors who access your systems or data.
- Contractual Agreements: Include strong security clauses in contracts with vendors.
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7. Incident Response Plan:
- Develop an Incident Response Plan: Create a documented plan outlining the steps to be taken in the event of a security breach.
- Test the Plan: Regularly test your incident response plan to ensure its effectiveness.
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By implementing these steps and continuously reviewing and updating your cybersecurity measures, you can significantly improve your organization’s security posture and protect your valuable assets.
More Information:
Thales — moving from Vormetric to CipherTrust
Myths about Data Security Debunked
Reach out to us if you need help managing your data protection needs:
