Most organizations today have a decent understanding of common cybersecurity threats they need to avoid. Putting together basic security strategies addressing these issues, including implementing various digital protection methods, has become a pretty common practice.
However, when companies focus most of their effort on the bigger cybersecurity picture – typically things like data breaches or ransomware attacks – it’s easy for smaller but still dangerous vulnerabilities to slip under the radar. These oversights might seem small on their own, but they can add up to create new opportunities that cybercriminals are all too happy to exploit.
Uncovering Human-Centric Cybersecurity Challenges
It’s a well-known saying that a chain is only as strong as its weakest link. This holds particularly true when it comes to cybersecurity.
While newer security technologies and strict network and system policies are essential for protecting company assets, ultimately, company employees are often the most vulnerable element within any defense strategy. Whether through accidental errors or deliberate malicious actions, organizations should always be aware of the human element and the potential dangers it can cause.
Identifying Malicious Insider Threats
Maintaining a balanced approach to employee access permissions is crucial. Over time, some employees may develop motivations to misuse their access or exfiltrate sensitive data for personal gain, posing a significant security risk.
While this may be a very rare occurrence, an employee’s knowledge of the company’s inner workings can make it easier for them to circumvent established safeguards. In addition, giving employees more access than what is required for their jobs can also increase the possibility of abuse.
To reduce the chances of an incident happening, implementing processes such as access restrictions, proper network usage policies, and building an ethical working culture is important.
Preventing Accidental Exposure
Employees, even well-meaning ones, can introduce certain security vulnerabilities to an organization.For instance, using too many weak passwords for different online accounts can pose a serious risk. Poorly configured or securely stored passwords offer much easier opportunities for hackers to exploit them.
In the same way, lack of attention can result in systems or applications being improperly provisioned or secured, making them more susceptible to attack.
Adequate training focused on following good cybersecurity practices can help alleviate the chances of these mistakes being made. Training should also extend to how to properly use business tools and solutions.
For example, while many companies are now actively using AI technology to streamline their workflows, there are also certain compliance regulations that govern the use of these tools. Employees should clearly understand these requirements, especially surrounding the legal and ethical use of these types of solutions.
Gaining Visibility and Control Over Shadow IT
Another aspect IT departments have to deal with is “Shadow IT.” This covers the software and services that employees adopt without the consent of the business. While these tools provide some level of benefit, they can also compromise the organization’s security posture.
Why Unsanctioned IT Can Be Damaging to Businesses
One problem that comes with the usage of random technology in a business is that it often goes unmanaged. Without active monitoring and correct security setups, there can be a number of damaging consequences to the business, such as:
- Unpatched Vulnerabilities – An unmaintained system is an open invitation to malicious actors that can take advantage of out-of-date hardware or software.
- Lack of Oversight – Most unmanaged systems are connected to company networks or systems and may not be properly administered. There is then no oversight when looking for abnormal user behavior or activities that could lead to security breaches.
- Inconsistent Policies – With unsanctioned IT systems, it becomes nearly impossible for an organization to ensure that everyone in the company applies the correct security measures when using the solution.
Strategies for Discovering and Controlling Shadow IT
Finding and managing shadow IT in your business stands is critical. This can be done by conducting a thorough system audit.
Working with network security specialists can assist your business in locating unauthorized applications or devices connected to the corporate network. This is the first step to addressing any security gaps that need attention.
After your organization has gauged the amount of unsanctioned technology currently in use, the next step is to focus on the security risks they introduce. In some cases, the use of specific tools may be acceptable, but only if your IT department agrees to maintain them. You should also establish policies that specify acceptable technology limitations to employees, including rules on personal cloud usage or when connecting to company assets using personal devices.
Cybersecurity Risks Outside Your Organization
Most businesses depend on a large network of vendors, suppliers, and contractors to ensure that specific business functions operate smoothly. However, these relationships bring certain cybersecurity liabilities with them that you may not realize
Reducing Third-Party Security Risks
It’s important to picture your vendor network as one system containing interrelated pieces. Because company assets and data are interaligned with these vendors, any breach that affects your provider can also affect your own operations.
Managing the potential threats from external partners and suppliers requires a lot of planning and attention. All vendors should be assessed before any formal contracts are signed. This involves defining and documenting minimum security expectations and auditing their information handling processes. This is especially important when considering data security and compliance responsibilities.
When drafting contracts, it’s important to try and avoid overly vague language. This eliminates confusion and draws clear lines when it comes to security accountabilities.
Continue Looking for Threats Hiding Below the Surface
Strengthening your digital security requires more than just focusing on well-known cyber threats. It is important to investigate your operations more closely to identify vulnerabilities that may be more subtle but still can undermine your systems and processes. Following the guidelines discussed, avoid many of these issues while mitigating risks from both internal and external sources.
About the Author
Nazy Fouladirad is President and COO of Tevora, a global leading cybersecurity consultancy. She has dedicated her career to creating a more secure business and online environment for organizations across the country and world. She is passionate about serving her community and acts as a board member for a local nonprofit organization.
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