Just how safe are your systems?

In today's rapidly advancing technological landscape, ensuring strong cybersecurity measures should be our top priority. Whether you're an executive or manager, you must be vigilant and proactive in identifying potential cyberthreats that could jeopardize your organization. Understanding the systemic risks present within your digital ecosystem of suppliers, vendors, and customers is paramount to maintaining a secure environment and preventing costly data breaches.

Recent reports place cybersecurity failure as the eighth most significant global risk over the next decade. Cost-wise, cybercrime is predicted to cause global damages of $10.5 trillion annually by 2025. This staggering amount highlights the need for proactive measures to protect your company’s sensitive data and systems. 

Shockingly, 40% of small business owners have yet to establish any cybersecurity measures, leaving them vulnerable to potential cyberattacks, as per the Electric Cybersecurity report. With the growing frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks, prioritizing cybersecurity for your business is of the utmost importance. 

Cybercriminals don’t discriminate by size.

Don't let the misconception that cyberattacks only target large corporations put your business at risk, as small businesses are more vulnerable to such attacks. In fact, cybercriminals often focus on smaller companies since they may have a lower level of cybersecurity measures than their larger counterparts.

This is mainly because smaller companies often underestimate the risks involved or expect their IT team to manage enterprise cybersecurity. It should come as no surprise that a significant number of small businesses (47%) have experienced at least one cyberattack. Even more concerning is the fact that a majority of these businesses (two-thirds) have endured multiple breaches.

Considering cybersecurity as a mere technical problem has resulted in years of ineffective investments that have facilitated rather than hindered the growth of threats and damage to businesses in terms of fraud, data theft and operational damage. As cyber threats continue to evolve, companies must develop more advanced security measures beyond simply implementing standard protocols and updating software and hardware. 

While technology can help, the employees often pose the biggest security risk. 

Employees may inadvertently click on malicious links or attachments, share passwords, use unapproved cloud applications, and forget to encrypt sensitive files. Enterprises need to enforce clear standards and educate their employees on the importance of following these policies to minimize the risk of security threats and protect sensitive information.

Cybersecurity policies help establish the standards of behavior expected from employees when it comes to activities such as encrypting email attachments and using social media. By setting these standards and restrictions, you and your IT team can effectively mitigate potential security risks and keep sensitive information safe. 

You must prioritize robust cybersecurity policies that keep up with the latest threats and trends in today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape. Neglecting to do so can leave your business vulnerable to data breaches and potential legal ramifications, especially in states that have their own information security requirements for businesses operating within their jurisdictions. Even small firms that are not subject to federal requirements could still be held responsible if a cyberattack occurs due to negligence.

Stay vigilant and take action to safeguard your company’s information.

To ensure the safety of sensitive information, it is imperative to implement a clear and effective cybersecurity policy and increase your fluency in cybersecurity. Enrolling in a cybersecurity program can equip you with the necessary knowledge to develop effective security policies and strategies to educate your team on the importance of maintaining robust cybersecurity measures.

One such program is CSUN’s exclusive, six-week Cybersecurity Leadership Series.

Led by a team of cybersecurity experts, this program will provide you with crucial insights into the latest cybersecurity needs for businesses, including governance, risk management, program management, and incident management. The series features panel discussions by some of the top people in the field – from the former Chair of a Homeland Security Council to a U.S. Army Colonel.

With our expert panel of cybersecurity professionals, you'll be able to ask questions, share your experiences, and learn how to protect your business from cyber threats.

Designed for managers and executives, this six-week online program will equip businesses with an essential cybersecurity strategy plan to protect their company’s data and reputation. The program’s curriculum is based on emerging cybersecurity needs for businesses. Classes meet on Saturday mornings from 9:30 a.m. to noon PST, online via Zoom.

Don't miss out on this opportunity – sign up today and take the first step in safeguarding your business against cyberthreats.