All employees have attended their cybersecurity trainings and have experienced mock phishing attacks, so what else can you do to keep your organization secure and protected? Here are a few suggestions focused on softwares and technology that can help lower the risk of an attack and keep your data, clients, and patients safe.
Use a Reputable and Reliable Antivirus
Although a simple solution, many organizations fail to implement antivirus softwares throughout their devices. Antivirus software defends against ransomware, viruses, spyware, malware and other possible online threats to protect private data, financial information and patient PHI data. Antivirus, anti-spyware and firewalls settings should also be updated regularly.
Secure Web Activity
Phishing attacks may also come in the form of fake webpages that are impersonating commonly used websites. An employee may attempt to log in through a form on a page that looks exactly like a commonly used website, only to realize the url was not the same and they may have compromised their data and your organization. Keep a mindful eye on URL’s to ensure the correct site is being used prior to submitting any user data. Antivirus softwares may also help in this area.
Secure Communications
Email has its risks as any other method of communication might, but some are inherently safer than others. Email may be suggested but texting is preferred due to its speed and convenience, but it isn’t secure. Secure and compliant messaging tools, like Lua, are encrypted and secure, ensuring that communications are not intercepted or accessed by unauthorized individuals.
Strengthening Passwords
Along with regular passwords changes, two-factor authentification helps ensure that the right personal is able to access data, devices, or tools. One example of this is when a user logs in using their password and then is prompted to input a code that has been emailed to them. Using this feature where available adds another layer of security for your accounts.
Keep Your Software Up-To-Date
With all other bases covered, it’s still important to keep all softwares updated in a timely manner. Most times, cybercriminals are targeting vulnerabilities found within softwares. These vulnerabilities are often fixed in updates so staying up to date is an effective way of reducing your risk of falling victim.
Schedule and Consistently Review the Status of Cybersecurity
It’s vital that IT and cybersecurity professionals and departments stay up to date on the current industry and new threats surfacing. Reviews of recent attacks and occurrences allow your team to prepare and address ways to prevent and address these attacks in the event they were to also fall victim.
