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How to Create an Robust BYOD Policy for Your Organization

How to Create an Robust BYOD Policy for Your Organization

Did you know that 70% of organizations have adopted a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy? As technology continues to evolve, more companies are encouraging employees to use their personal devices for work purposes. While this can increase flexibility and productivity, it also poses unique challenges in terms of security and compliance.

In this article, we’ll discuss how to create a robust BYOD policy for your organization and ensure that your company remains secure while benefiting from this modern approach to work.

Understanding Your Organization’s BYOD Needs

Before diving into creating a BYOD policy, it’s essential to assess your organization’s needs. Begin by evaluating the current state of device usage within your company.

Determine how many employees are using personal devices for work purposes and what types of devices they are using. This will give you a starting point to build your BYOD policy.

Next, identify the main objectives of implementing a BYOD policy. These might include:

  • Increasing employee productivity
  • Reducing IT costs
  • Providing greater flexibility for your workforce

Keep in mind that different organizations will have different goals, so it’s crucial to tailor your policy to your specific needs.

Understanding the risks and challenges associated with BYOD is also crucial. Some common risks include:

  • Potential data breaches
  • Loss of devices
  • Unauthorized access to company information

Developing a Comprehensive BYOD Policy

To create a robust BYOD security policy, you must establish clear guidelines for device usage. A well-defined policy will help protect your organization from potential threats and ensure a smooth transition for employees. Here are some key elements to include in your policy:

Device Eligibility and Compatibility

Start by setting criteria for device eligibility and compatibility. This means outlining which types of devices are allowed and ensuring they can be easily integrated into your organization’s IT infrastructure.

You can use a BYOD policy template to help with this process. Make sure to consider factors like:

  • Operating systems
  • Device models
  • Minimum hardware requirements

Employee Roles and Responsibilities

Define the roles and responsibilities of employees participating in the BYOD program. Be clear about what they can and cannot do with their personal devices while at work. This includes specifying which applications are permitted, how to access company resources, and any restrictions on personal use during work hours.

Providing clear guidelines will help employees understand their obligations and reduce the risk of security breaches.

Acceptable Use Policies

Your BYOD device management policy should also include acceptable use policies. These are rules that employees must follow when using their personal devices for work purposes. For example, you might:

  • Prohibit the use of certain apps or websites;
  • Require employees to update their devices regularly; or
  • Restrict the sharing of company information

Make sure your acceptable use policies align with your organization’s security needs and industry regulations.

Security Best Practices

To protect your organization’s data and devices, it’s essential to incorporate security best practices into your BYOD policy.

Encourage employees to use strong, unique passwords for their devices and accounts. This will help prevent unauthorized access and keep company data secure.

Implement a mobile device management (MDM) solution to monitor, manage, and secure employees’ personal devices. This will give your IT team greater control over the devices connected to your network.

Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) for accessing sensitive information. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring employees to provide additional proof of identity, such as a fingerprint or a one-time code.

Employee Training and Awareness

Educating employees about BYOD security is critical for the success of your policy. Provide ongoing training and resources to help employees understand their responsibilities and stay informed about the latest security threats. This will not only help reduce the risk of breaches but also ensure that employees feel confident using their personal devices at work.

Implementing Security Best Practices

A key part of your BYOD policy is making sure your organization is safe from mobile threats. To do this, you should include some important security measures. These steps will help keep your data and devices secure, even when using personal devices for work.

Password Policies and Encryption

One simple way to improve mobile security is to have strong password policies. Encourage employees to use passwords that are hard to guess and different for each account. This helps protect company data by making it difficult for others to access it without permission.

Encryption is another way to protect your data. It makes the information unreadable to anyone who doesn’t have the right key to unlock it.

Make sure your employees use encryption on their BYOD devices. This way, if a device is lost or stolen, the data on it will still be safe.

Mobile Device Management

Using a Mobile Device Management (MDM) solution is a great way to keep an eye on the personal devices used for work. MDM lets your IT team manage and secure these devices. This way, they can make sure that devices are following the right security policies.

An MDM solution can also help control which apps can be used on BYOD devices. This means you can block apps that might be risky or not needed for work. This helps keep your network safe from potential threats.

Multi-Factor Authentication

Another important part of mobile security is multi-factor authentication (MFA). MFA is when you need more than just a password to access an account or device. This can include things like a fingerprint, a text message code, or a special app.

By using MFA, you make it much harder for someone to break into an account. Even if they guess the password, they still need the other part of the authentication to get in. Make sure to include MFA in your BYOD security policy to keep your data safe.

Employee Training and Awareness

Teaching your employees about mobile threats and how to stay safe is important. Offer regular training and resources to help them understand their role in keeping the company secure. This can include things like how to spot scams, how to create strong passwords, and what to do if they think their device has been compromised.

Regular Device Audits and Updates

Keeping BYOD devices up to date is another key part of your security policy. Outdated devices can have security flaws that make them easier to attack. Make sure your employees keep their devices updated with the latest software and security patches.

It’s also a good idea to do regular device audits. This means checking to see if devices are following your security policy and if there are any issues that need to be fixed.

Maintaining Compliance and Data Privacy

When you have a BYOD policy, it’s important to make sure you follow rules and keep private information safe. In this section, we’ll discuss how to do this and keep your policy strong.

Follow Regulations and Standards

Different industries have their own regulations and standards for security. These rules help protect customers and businesses from harm.

When you create your BYOD policy, you need to make sure it follows these rules. This way, you can avoid problems and keep your company safe.

For example, if you work with health information, you might need to follow a law called HIPAA. This regulation helps protect the privacy of people’s health information.

Protect Private Data

When employees use their personal devices for work, they might have access to private information. This information could be about your company, your customers, or your employees. It’s important to make sure this information stays private, even on personal devices.

One way to do this is by using encryption. We talked about this earlier, but it’s worth mentioning again. Encryption helps keep data private by making it unreadable to anyone who doesn’t have the right key.

Check Your Policy Often

To make sure your BYOD policy stays strong, it’s important to check it often. This means looking at the policy and making sure it still follows rules and keeps data private. You might need to make changes to your policy as rules change or new security threats come up.

Leveraging Managed Security Service Providers

When developing a robust BYOD policy, it’s beneficial to consult with experts in the field. Managed Security Service Providers, like Cybriant, are companies that specialize in safeguarding businesses. We can assist you in enhancing your BYOD policy.

Cybriant possesses extensive experience in security and can guide you in determining the most effective ways to protect your organization. We can provide recommendations on aspects such as password policies, encryption, and compliance with industry regulations. Collaborating with managed services ensures your policy remains up-to-date and resistant to potential threats.

Managed services can also support you in monitoring your devices and network. We can identify any issues and help you address them before they escalate. This contributes to the safety of your company and allows you to concentrate on your core business activities.

Secure Your Organization’s Future with a Robust BYOD Policy

A well-crafted BYOD policy is essential for organizations to maintain security while enjoying the advantages of a flexible work environment. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can create a policy that addresses the challenges of device management, privacy, and compliance.

Don’t leave your organization’s security to chance. Contact the experts at Cybriant to help you develop and implement a comprehensive BYOD policy tailored to your specific needs.

The CIOs Guide to Preventing Ransomware Attacks

The CIOs Guide to Preventing Ransomware Attacks

Ransomware attacks are one of the biggest threats that CIOs and their teams face today. The impact of a ransomware attack can be daunting, crippling business operations and causing significant financial losses.

Since 2016, cybersecurity and crypto-ransomware attacks have been on the rise, with increased sophistication and greater success rates. Ransomware groups have become increasingly aggressive and continue to evolve their tactics, making it critical for CIOs to be aware of the latest ransomware threats.

To help organizations prevent ransomware attacks, CIOs should take pre-emptive steps and ensure that their teams are knowledgeable about best practices for defending against these very malicious code attacks and preventing ransomware victims.

ransomware, virus, malware

In this article, we will share effective steps to prevent ransomware attacks.

Educate Employees on Safe Online Practices

Your employees can be the first line of defense against ransomware attacks. Most attacks happen because employees unknowingly download and install malicious software disguised as legitimate files. Therefore, educating your employees about safe online practices can go a long way in preventing ransomware attacks. You could encourage your employees to:

– Avoid downloading files from unknown websites or email attachments from unknown sources

– Use strong passwords and ensure that they are kept secure

– Be cautious about clicking on links, especially in emails or messages from unknown senders

By training your employees and raising their awareness about safe online practices and the importance of sensitive data, you’ll be able to minimize the risk of ransomware attacks.

Keep Software and Security Systems Updated

Ransomware attacks often exploit vulnerabilities in operating systems, software, and security systems. It’s essential to keep all software and systems up to date with the latest patches and updates. Also, make sure you use high-quality firewalls, antivirus software, and malware detection software to secure your networks, servers, and desktop computers.

Implement Backup and Recovery Processes

One of the most effective ways of preventing ransomware attacks is by having reliable backup and recovery processes in place. By backing up your critical data regularly, you can ensure that you have a copy of your important files in case an attack occurs. It is also essential that you test your data recovery plans regularly to ensure that they work when needed.

Monitor Network Activity in Real-Time

Ransomware attacks can happen at any time, and you need to keep a close eye on your network and systems to detect any suspicious activity. Use real-time monitoring tools to track network, server, and desktop activity, allowing you to identify anomalies indicative of a ransomware attack. You can also block known malicious IP addresses and domains to prevent attacks before they occur.

Cybriant offers 24/7 security monitoring services to help CIOs detect and respond to ransomware attacks quickly. Contact us today for a customized security solution designed to protect your business from cyber threats.

hacker, anonymous, cybersecurity

Don’t forget Mobile Devices

With the proliferation of mobile devices in the workplace, businesses need to ensure that these devices are secure from ransomware attacks as well. Ensure that your employees’ mobile devices are running up-to-date operating systems and security applications.

Also, implement a BYOD policy to ensure that any third-party device that connects to your network meets certain security requirements. Be sure they only connect to corporate accounts on approved devices.

Employees are your first line of defense when it comes to cyber-attacks. Be sure they are aware of the risks and know what to do if they encounter ransomware. Educate them on safe online practices, require strong passwords, and be sure to install mobile device management software that can detect threats and restrict access to sensitive data.

Mobile Device Protection

Managed Detection and Response or MDR can be a great solution to protect your business from ransomware and other cyber threats. With MDR, businesses can receive real-time threat alerts and continuous monitoring of their IT environment so they can stop attacks before they happen.

Contact us today for more information on how we can help you secure your business from the latest cybersecurity threats.

Ransomware Infection Methods

To avoid being ransomware victims, it’s important to learn how hackers deliver ransomware. Here are the top 15 ransomware infection methods that hackers use to compromise systems and steal data:

  1. Phishing Emails – Attackers use phishing emails with a malicious link or attachment, which infect the system when clicked by the user.
  2. Malicious Websites – Hackers create websites that have malware embedded in them. When users visit such sites, their systems get infected.
  3. Malvertising – Attackers can push ransomware onto users’ devices through online ads.
  4. Social Engineering – Ransomware can also spread through social engineering tactics such as clicking on fake news or sensational headlines.
  5. Vishing – This method involves attackers posing as a trusted individual or company to lure users into providing sensitive information or clicking on malicious links.
  6. Brute Force Attacks – Attackers can use brute force attacks to guess passwords and gain access to systems.
  7. Remote Desktop Protocol – Attackers can exploit vulnerabilities in Remote Desktop Protocol to access systems and upload ransomware onto them.
  8. Software Vulnerabilities – Hackers can exploit known vulnerabilities in software to gain unauthorized access to systems.
  9. Drive-by Downloads – Attackers can install malware on a victim’s device when they visit an infected website.
  10. File Sharing Networks – P2P file-sharing networks can be used to distribute ransomware.
  11. Supply Chain Attacks – Hackers can target third-party software providers to gain access to other companies’ systems.
  12. Internet of Things – Internet of Things devices with weak security can be compromised and used to spread ransomware.
  13. Unpatched Software – Attackers can exploit vulnerabilities in software that has not been updated with the latest security patches.
  14. Misconfigured Cloud Storage – Misconfigured cloud storage can expose sensitive data and make it more vulnerable to ransomware attacks.
  15. USB Drives – Ransomware can spread through infected USB drives that are connected to an infected system.

Given the extensive range of infection methods used by hackers, it is crucial for businesses to stay informed and take appropriate steps to mitigate the risks.

ransomware, cybersecurity, cyber

Keeping software and security systems up to date, implementing backup and recovery processes, and ensuring that employees are educated about safe online practices can go a long way in reducing the chances of falling victim to ransomware attacks.

However, it is equally important for businesses to work with experienced cybersecurity professionals who can provide tailored solutions to protect their systems and sensitive data.

Ransomware Attack vs. Malware Attack

According to Checkpoint, “Putting it simply, all ransomware is malware, but not all malware is ransomware. The goal of ransomware, which is made possible by encryption technology, is to deny the victim access to their files and demand a ransom in exchange for restoring that access.”

The main difference between a ransomware attack and a malware attack is the motivation of the attacker. A ransomware attack is a ransomware activity typically driven by financial gain, where the attacker will block access to or encrypt data until a ransom is paid.

A malware attack can also be motivated by financial gain, but it may also have other motives such as ransomware as a service, stealing data for espionage or disrupting operations.

Additionally, with a ransomware attack, the attackers usually provide victims with instructions on how to obtain their decryption key once they have paid the ransom whereas this is not usually seen in malware attacks.

However, both types of attacks involve malicious software that must be removed from systems in order to prevent further damage and restore affected files if possible.

How Ransomware Works: Encrypted Data

A Ransomware Attack can be carried out in many different ways, but the ultimate goal is always the same: to extort money from the victim through the threat of irreparable damage to their data or devices.

Ransomware typically arrives on a computer through a phishing email or an infected website, and once it has taken hold of operating system, it encrypts the victim’s files or locks them out of their system entirely.

Ransomware attacks rely on encryption to target and lock victims’ files, thereby demanding payment for the decryption key or restoring access. The encryption process used to encrypt files used by ransomware is typically a sophisticated algorithm that generates a unique key for each file, making it harder to break through brute force methods.

Once the ransomware has accessed the victim’s system, it seeks out specific files, such as pictures, videos, documents, and spreadsheets, to then encrypts files. Ransomware targets the most valuable files, requiring victims to pay the ransom to regain access to their critical data.

The encryption process is often reversible, but only with the correct decryption key or other methods, such as restoring from a backup. However, paying the ransom does not guarantee access to the files, and attackers may not always provide the necessary decryption or encryption key either, resulting in permanent data loss.

Ransomware attacks have become more sophisticated and can target entire organizations, making data recovery costly and time-consuming. In addition to encrypting files, attackers may also steal sensitive data, use the victim’s data as a launchpad for other attacks, or even threaten to release the data publicly unless the ransom demand is paid.

Preventing all ransomware infections requires a multi-faceted approach that includes user training, regular software updates, system backups, and working with an experienced cybersecurity provider. Organizations need to be vigilant about detecting and responding to ransomware attacks to minimize the damage and restore access to data as quickly as possible.

Can an MSSP Stop Ransomware Attackers?

Yes, a managed security service provider (MSSP) can help protect against ransomware attacks.

An MSSP offers a range of services such as monitoring and managing cyber threats, patch management, user access control, disaster recovery planning, and incident response plans that can help mitigate the risks associated with ransomware attacks.

Cybriant offers services like Managed SIEM, which can provide comprehensive security visibility, detect threats quickly, and help organizations respond to ransomware attacks quickly. We work with several SIEM providers, contact us to learn about which one might be best for your organization.

Additionally, an experienced MSSP can provide advice and guidance to help organizations develop secure systems and processes that are less susceptible to ransomware attacks. There are countless ransomware variants and new ones are being created almost daily. An MSSP has the knowledge of new ransomware variants to protect your organization.

Ultimately, the key to preventing ransomware attacks is having a comprehensive security strategy in place that combines multiple layers of protection with ongoing monitoring and response plans. A reliable MSSP can help ensure that an organization has the necessary resources and expertise to effectively protect its sensitive data and systems.

crime, hacker, computer

What If You Have a Current Ransomware Infection?

If an organization has an active, ransomware variant of infection, it is important to take immediate action to contain the attack and mitigate any potential damage.

The first step should be to disconnect all affected systems from the network to prevent the spread of malware. Then, a backup should be used to restore any encrypted files or damaged files if possible. Organizations should also contact their IT security team or an experienced MSSP for assistance in resolving the issue.

Finally, it is important to remember that paying a ransom payment should always be a last resort as there is no guarantee that the attackers will provide a decryption key even after payment has been made.

Once the attack has been contained and affected files have been restored, it is important to review security protocols and procedures to ensure that similar incidents can be avoided in the future.

By taking proactive steps to protect systems and data, organizations can reduce the chances of falling victim to a ransomware attack. With the right resources and expertise on their side, businesses will have peace of mind knowing that their sensitive data and systems are secure.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, preventing ransomware attacks should be a top priority for CIOs and their teams. By educating employees on safe online practices, keeping software and security systems updated, implementing data recovery processes, and monitoring network activity in real time, you can significantly reduce the risk of ransomware attacks.

These are simple, yet effective steps that you can take to protect your organization from the devastating consequences of a ransomware attack. If you need future ransomware protection, consider reaching out to Cybriant for more information here.

How to Pick a Managed Security Service Provider: What You Need to Know

How to Pick a Managed Security Service Provider: What You Need to Know

Headline news about cybersecurity threats lulls many of us into a false sense of security – that a security attack is rare enough that it makes the news. The reality is far more sinister. Last year, 54% of businesses experienced a cyberattack.

What does this mean for your business? Quite simply, it means you need experts and robust technology. You need to put security first.

You can do that by hiring a managed service security provider. This guide will explain what that entails and how to pick the perfect one for your business.

Managed Security Service Providers: What They Offer

If you don’t want to run IT in-house, choose managed services. That’s where you hire a business to do everything for you. And although a separate company, they often feel part of your team.

One such service is Managed Security Service Providers or MSSPs for short.

MSSPs are companies that help protect your business from cyber threats.
They offer various services, like monitoring your network and detecting and responding to attacks. Most importantly, they keep your data safe.

Hiring an MSSP can save you time and money, as they have the right tools and expertise to keep your business secure.

They work with you to develop a custom security plan, so you can focus on running your business. By partnering with an MSSP, you can have peace of mind knowing that your company’s digital assets are in good hands.

Managed Providers and How They Fit With Your Organization

MSSPs integrate seamlessly with your organization. And they work closely with your IT team to bolster your security. Daily, they monitor your systems, alert you of any threats, and respond swiftly to incidents.

You’ll receive regular reports on their findings and actions, ensuring transparency. By collaborating with an MSSP, you’ll have someone to handle your security concerns so you can focus on your core business.

Key Considerations

As you can expect, managed services vary considerably. You need to find a provider that fits your business well.

When looking, here are some factors that you should consider. Use these to help narrow your search and create a shortlist.

Services

Standard services offered by MSSPs include network monitoring, threat detection, incident response, and data protection.

Critical services, like monitoring and threat detection, help prevent cyber attacks. Incident response is vital when breaches occur to minimize damage. Data protection ensures sensitive information stays safe.

Some businesses might not need every service, as their needs vary.

For example, companies handling sensitive data may prioritize data protection. Conversely, those with fewer risks might focus on essential monitoring. It’s crucial to assess your unique business setup and choose services that fit your needs.

Expertise and Experience

Skilled MSSPs can better protect you from cyber threats. And they’ll have more chance of minimizing damage during a security problem. To assess expertise, look for certifications, industry recognition, and case studies.

Additionally, consider their managed security experience in your specific industry. It shows they will be familiar with your unique challenges. They will know the security priorities of your type of business.

Scalability

As your company expands, so do its security needs. Select an MSSP that can grow and scale with your business. You want one that offers flexibility in what they can provide you with.

That ensures they can handle increased demands and adapt to your changing requirements.

Partnering with a scalable MSSP prevents the need to switch providers later on. That saves time and resources. It helps you maintain consistent security measures as your business evolves.

Pricing

Set a budget when considering an MSSP. It will help you avoid overspending while still meeting your security needs.

When comparing security service costs, ensure you’re checking like-for-like services. Alternative providers might bundle services differently, so see what’s included in each package.

Ask companies for transparent pricing, detailing costs for each service and potential add-ons. That helps you make informed decisions and find the best value MSSP that aligns with your budget and security requirements.

Technology

When selecting the right MSSP, consider its technology capabilities. Here are some suggestions:

  • Assess their tools for threat detection, response, and network security
  • Check if their technology integrates with your existing systems
  • Investigate their data protection measures like encryption

Examining an MSSP’s technology allows you to find a provider that uses cutting-edge solutions. Great technology will be your safest way to protect your business and seamlessly integrate with your current setup.

Customer Support

Consider the support channels offered by the MSSP. And Check availability for customer service support. Broadly speaking, first-line support handles fundamental issues, while second-line tackles more complex problems.

Check their Service-Level Agreements (SLAs) for detail. That will outline response, resolution times, and penalties if they fail to meet them.

Decide if you need 9-5 support or 24/7 coverage based on your business operations. Remember that 24/7 support may cost more but is more suitable if your business works around the clock.

Security Compliance and Certifications

When hiring an MSSP, look for security certifications. That might include:

  • CISSP: Certified Information Systems Security Professional
  • CISM: Certified Information Security Manager
  • CISA: Certified Information Systems Auditor

Check for compliance with industry standards. Common globally-recognized standards include:

  • ISO: International Organization for Standardization (the most relevant security standard is ISO 27001)
  • NIST: National Institute of Standards and Technology
  • GDPR: General Data Protection Regulation

Check too that the provider offers any data and security standards that might be important in your industry. Here are two examples:

  • Healthcare: HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act)
  • Payment processing: PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard)

Verifying certifications, compliance, and quality standards is a vital step. It will show the security company follows best practices.

More importantly, it will reassure you that they are trustworthy businesses. You want that when working with any provider on a critical security issue.

Monitoring and Reporting

Check any MSSP for its monitoring and reporting capabilities.

Monitoring is critical. It helps detect threats and vulnerabilities fast – it could make or break a business during a security emergency. And it means you have an expert hand to mitigate a risk swiftly.

Ask potential MSSPs for examples of the reporting they can provide or whether they can offer you custom reports and dashboards. Even with a managed service, you’ll still want to see some data on your security situation.

It’s reasonable to argue that the monitoring and reporting feature is among the highest priorities when hiring an MSSP. Robust monitoring and consistent, quality reports give your business the security and compliance you want.

Plus, it’ll keep your business at the highest industry standards. That will protect customer data, business continuity, and company reputation.

Before Your Decision: Client Testimonials

Reading online reviews, testimonials, references, and case studies before hiring an MSSP is a sensible idea. Start by visiting their website. They may showcase client feedback and success stories.

Explore online review platforms and industry forums for unbiased opinions. Reach out to your professional network for recommendations and personal experiences with MSSPs.

Doing this research is a vital step. It helps you gauge the MSSP’s reputation, reliability, and effectiveness. You’re checking if they can handle security challenges like yours.

It also provides insights into their customer support. Read clues about how responsive they are and the general satisfaction of their clients.

By checking these sources, you understand the MSSP’s performance and make an informed decision. It will help you choose a provider that aligns with your business needs and expectations.

Final Conversations and Sales Pitch

If you’ve started speaking to MSSPs, you’ve probably had many invites to sales calls! That is a great time to have a more in-depth conversation with potential providers, so grab the opportunity when offered.

Prepare a list of questions to ask. Don’t assume any question is too simple or obvious! Chances are they’ve heard the question before,  and you must understand every tiny aspect of the service before you sign on the dotted line.

If you have technical people in your business, get someone with IT security expertise to join you in these meetings. They will ask pertinent questions that will help you form a final decision.

Decision Time

At decision time, make a shortlist of potential providers. Set an internal meeting and review each MSSP individually, highlighting the pros and cons.

Try and reduce your shortlist – it’ll make that decision a little easier. You may find one that stands out from the pack by that point. Maybe it’s a proposal with a clear technical advantage, or you have one on your list that provides the ideal SLA.

If you aren’t 100% sure, you can always as the MSSP to offer you a trial period. It will allow you to evaluate the service in real-time and see how they fit with your organization before you sign a long-term contract.

Securing Your Business’s Future

Security is more than protecting your business from a rare occurrence. It’s about strengthening your defense against an ever-changing, ever-complex, powerful threat.

Hiring a managed security service provider is a wise decision. It will ensure your business continues to operate even during a security crisis and protects your critical business data (not to mention your business reputation).

For more information on how our managed services can help your business, fill out this simple form. Tell us about your business, and one of our experts will contact you with our professional recommendations.

How Vulnerability Scanning Can Keep Your Business Safe and Secure

How Vulnerability Scanning Can Keep Your Business Safe and Secure

In 2021 alone, there were 50% more cybersecurity threats and attacks happening each week than in the previous year, 2020.

With a rise in cybersecurity threats and the importance of keeping data safe at companies, there is an increased need to know when your network is weak. This can prevent an attack. This will drastically reduce and mitigate the risk that your company is facing in terms of cybersecurity threats.

But what can you do in order to keep your company and the data you store safe? One way to do so is through vulnerability scanning.

Ready to learn all about vulnerability scanning, what it is, and how it can benefit your business? Keep reading to learn more about why this is crucial to have as a business in 2023.

What Is Vulnerability Scanning?

In simple terms, vulnerability scanning is the process of using a software to scan IT networks and other tech systems to identify security vulnerabilities in hardware and software. Most of the time, this is done in the business world to keep companies safe and secure.

But why does this matter? What is the point of scanning before something comes up? For starters, it is best to be proactive when it comes to cybersecurity threats.

But in addition to being proactive, security threats and hackers have become more intelligent throughout the years. There are more complex ways to attack businesses and the cyber world than there ever was before. It is more important than ever to be able to protect your business from a potential attack and threat.

One way to do this is through vulnerability scanning for businesses to use this canning tool to create a more complex and intensive vulnerability management system for a business.

How Does Vulnerability Scanning Work?

Now that you know the importance of vulnerability scanning and more about what it is, you may be wondering how it works.

When you use a vulnerability scanner, it is going to scan the IT system and the overall network automatically. This will identify various vulnerabilities in the software. When it does this, it will flag anything that needs attention within the network.

This is how it starts. However, there are many other phases that are part of vulnerability scanning.

Asset Inventory

The first phase of vulnerability scanning is to create an asset inventory. When it does this, it sets up the scanning process to happen across time. It will do periodic scans in order to check the security of the system at all times.

Prioritize Assets

Once the asset inventory is set up, the next step is to prioritize based on how you operate the business and what is of the most importance to your business.

This means that you are going to choose what to scan, when to scan it, and what the most important assets are to scan in the business. This will allow vulnerability scanning to prioritize the most important aspects of the business.

This also ensures that once it is set up with priorities, you don’t have to worry about it as much. You’ve done the initial work to set it up, and now it can run on its own without wasting any of your or your employees’ time and resources.

Assessment

Now that your vulnerability scanning is all set up, it is time to actually scan and use the security tools that are part of it.

This will tell you a bunch of different factors that allow you to determine what you want to eliminate first. Whether you want to look at the threat levels or the classification first, the scan will tell you both so you can make the decision about what is the most vulnerable aspect first.

But how does the scan itself work?

The scanner uses the asset and data inventory that you set up to scan the system. It will look for flaws, coding bugs and errors, anomalies within the network and system, and any misconfigured configurations in the system.

Once it does this, it will identify the potential attackers and figure out what to do from there.

Reporting

Once the vulnerability scan is complete, it will then enter the reporting phase. This is when the scanning tool will report any and all issues that it finds in the system.

These findings will give you a better idea of the Riss, factors, and threat levels that your security system has.

Remediation

Once the system reports any flaws, bugs, or issues that it finds, the next phase is the remediation phase. Under this phase, the reports are used to fix the flaws that come about. This means that you will be able to remediate any issues with outdated operating systems or updates that need to happen.

These fixes are relatively easy to do on your own. However, if there are more complicated issues, this may require more technical knowledge to figure out and fix.

Issues such as cross-site scripting attacks, SQL injection vulnerabilities, and other issues that may arise may require professional help.

Verification and Monitoring

Once the entire process is over, the process starts over with the entire process once again. This phase will set a new schedule for vulnerability scanning. This schedule will start the process over again where it begins to look for new flaws to correct in the system.

Benefits of Using Vulnerability Scanners

If you have been thinking about using vulnerability scanners for your business, you may be wondering if it’s worth it. You want to know the benefits of using it.

There are so many benefits of using vulnerability scanners. Keep reading to learn more about them.

Be Proactive With Identifying Vulnerabilities Before It Becomes an Issue

One of the biggest benefits of using vulnerability scanners is that they are able to identify weaknesses and problems before they become bigger problems for your business.

When a business notices that there are vulnerabilities in the cybersecurity sector of the company, they can take the appropriate action right away to mitigate risks in the business. Knowing that there is something going on that shouldn’t be going on can prevent a lot of issues from happening down the road.

As soon as there is a vulnerability that is detected, a business can attack from the inside to stop a potential data breach and/or cyber-attack.

Compliance With Regulations and Standards in the Industry

In the business world, many industries have specific regulations and standards that businesses have to comply with in order to be reaching the right standards in terms of cybersecurity.

For instance, there are typically federal laws, federal regulations, guidelines, and state laws that differ between states, and international laws (specifically for businesses that operate internationally).

By using a tool such as vulnerability scanning, there is more compliance with regulations in the industry. Using vulnerability scanning is one way to ensure a business is meeting all of the necessary requirements that the state, federal, or international regulations put on them.

Reduce Financial Losses

Cybercrimes cost companies and individuals trillions of dollars each year in total. In fact, it is expected that losses will be around $10.5 trillion by 2025. That’s up from $3 trillion in 2015.

If your business is part of a cybercrime, you could be looking at a huge loss for the business. By using vulnerability scanning, this is not as big of an issue because you are going to be aware of issues before they become large enough to cost you a lot of money.

These issues can cost money because they could exploit data that needs recovering or some type of solution to get the data back. This requires an initial investment to get the data back under your control as well as giving out reciprocity to those affected by the issue.

By recognizing issues before they become larger, you will reduce the financial impacts that a cybercrime could potentially have. It also protects the business from losing sensitive data and financial assets.

Better Network Performance

Although not what stands out the most (as vulnerability scanning is mostly meant to reduce the risk of financial loss and cyberattacks), it can also help businesses to improve network performance as a whole.

Because it is meant to identify vulnerabilities, it can improve performance by reducing these vulnerabilities so that business operations can run more efficiently and effectively as a whole.

More Trust From Clients and Customers

If you are a company that uses vulnerability scanning to reduce and mitigate risk, you are going to gain more trust from potential clients and customers because they know you are doing everything you can to keep your business running smoothly and to keep their information safe.

This can significantly impact the reputation that you have among clients and customers. It is a great way to establish yourself as a trustworthy business in a specific niche because you are taking the steps to mitigate risk.

Because you have more trust from clients and customers, you are also going to be giving yourself a competitive advantage. You are able to set yourself apart from the rest by demonstrating your commitment to cybersecurity.

While doing this, you’ll be able to get new customers and retain the ones you already have against other competitors.

Improve Decision Making

Because vulnerability scanning gives you insights into what is happening in terms of security, it can be easier to make decisions. You have a better understanding of how to allocate resources and where to put your time and energy as part of your security strategy.

This can make your processes work much smoother and improve your risk management system in the company.

Difference Between Vulnerability Scanning vs Penetration Testing

If you are a business and have heard of both vulnerability scanning and penetration testing, you may wonder what the differences between the two are.

Which one is better and what system should you focus on using?

The main difference is that vulnerability scanning is fully automated. You set the system to work without you doing the scan yourself. The penetration testing system needs manual work in order to figure out the weaknesses in a system.

For instance, a penetration test actually simulates attacks so that you can figure out the weaknesses in the system. From there, these weaknesses can be fixed to solve the issue so that an actual breach doesn’t happen.

Although vulnerability scanning does the same thing, it does it automatically without needing you there to do it. This allows a security team to look at the overarching system to figure out the flaws to fix security issues that may arise.

Although there are big differences, both are part of a system to protect against cybersecurity issues and vulnerabilities in a system to keep data safe within a business.

Use Vulnerability Scanning for Your Business

If you are a business that has a lot of data and security within it, you should always make sure that you are using different systems. This will keep that data safe and secure to mitigate risks.

Now that you know the importance of vulnerability scanning for your business, you may be wondering how to get started.

At Cybriant Managed Security Services, we offer various solutions to help your business stay safe. Ready to learn more about how we can help and what services we can offer your business?

You can reach out to us today to learn more and ask any questions that you may have about how we can help!

How to Scale Your Security Services with an MSSP Program

How to Scale Your Security Services with an MSSP Program

With the ever-increasing threat management complexity of cyber threats, Managed Service Providers (MSPs) are turning to MSSP programs to help them scale their security services and provide better protection for their clients.

An MSSP program can offer many benefits that allow MSPs to expand their service offering and keep up with the latest threats. Let’s take a look at some of the advantages of working with an MSSP program.

What is A Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) Program?

An MSSP program is a managed security service provider (MSSP) that offers the managed protection of networks, other infrastructure, systems, and data. This type of service allows businesses to outsource their security needs instead of managing them in-house, which can be expensive and complex.

An MSSP will typically provide services such as vulnerability scanning penetration testing, log monitoring, intrusion detection and prevention, malware protection, patch management, and more. They will also provide guidance on security policy and best practices to help organizations stay up-to-date with the ever-changing cyber threat landscape.

Benefits of an MSSP Program for MSPs

 

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MSPs can benefit from partnering with an MSSP program in several ways. One of the key advantages is that it allows MSPs to focus on their core competencies while trusting an experienced provider with the job of keeping their systems secure.

Another benefit is that by partnering with an MSSP, MSPs can access more advanced network security services and solutions at a lower cost than they could manage themselves.

A Comprehensive Approach to Security

MSSP programs provide MSPs with a comprehensive approach to security that allows them to protect their customers from both known and emerging threats. The programs offer a range of services, from network monitoring and threat detection to incident response and remediation, allowing MSPs to customize their services based on the needs of each individual customer. This comprehensive approach to outsourcing security enables MSPs to address all potential threats quickly and effectively.

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Enhanced Visibility into Threat Landscape

MSSP programs also provide MSPs with enhanced visibility into the current threat landscape and mobile device threats. A good MSSP will have access to data from multiple sources, including intrusion detection systems, malware databases, and threat intelligence feeds.

This data can be used to identify potential threats before they become an issue and help MSPs stay ahead of new or unknown threats. Furthermore, this data can be used as part of a proactive approach to security by helping MSPs identify trends in malicious activity across multiple customers or industries.

Reduced Overhead Costs

Working with an MSSP program can significantly reduce overhead costs for MSPs as they don’t need to invest in expensive hardware or software solutions or hire additional staff members to manage the security systems.

Additionally, MSSP programs often include access to best-in-class tools such as firewalls, antivirus software, patch management tools, and more – all without any upfront cost or long-term commitment required from the MSP. This means that MSPs can easily scale their security offerings without incurring additional expenses.

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White-Labeled Security Services

Many MSSPs will allow your organization to white-label its security monitoring services. This means that you can use their managed security monitoring solutions but have them be branded as your own. This gives MSPs the opportunity to provide a more comprehensive service package to their customers and increase their services’ value without any additional costs or time required.

How to Select an MSSP to Scale Your MSP Security Services

When selecting an MSSP program to partner with, it is important to make sure they offer the services you need and that they are reliable and respected in the industry. It is also important to do your research on-site, and make sure the service provider has a proven track record of providing quality security services.

Finally, it’s important to look for an MSSP that is willing to work with you on a customized service package that meets the specific needs of your clients. This will ensure the security services are tailored to their requirements and help protect them from known and emerging threats.

Once you have chosen an MSSP, be sure to stay up-to-date with their services and look for opportunities to update your security package with the latest tools, technologies, and strategies. This will ensure you are always providing the best possible protection for your customers.

By partnering with an MSSP program, MSPs can access better security solutions at a lower cost while maintaining control of their core competencies. Ultimately, this partnership allows MSPs to better serve their customers and help them stay safe in an ever-changing threat landscape.

This comprehensive approach to security management enables MSPs to provide a high-quality service, reduce overhead costs, and easily manage the security of their customers without needing additional staff or resources. It also provides peace of mind for both MSPs and customers, knowing that their data and systems are properly protected. In short, partnering with an MSSP program is a great way for MSPs to protect their customers while scaling their security services.

The right MSSP partner can help your organization ensure the safety of its customers and maximize its own security capabilities and offerings without needing additional staff or resources. With the right partner, MSPs can offer comprehensive security solutions and be prepared to respond quickly to any threats that arise along the way. This will enable them to better serve their customers by providing the best possible protection from malicious attacks. In turn, this will help foster customer loyalty and trust, resulting in a successful business with long-term customers.

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24/7 Security Monitoring for MSPs

With 24/7 security monitoring through an MSSP, MSPs (Managed Service Providers) can keep up with the latest threats and vulnerabilities that are out there. This allows them to actively protect their clients from cyber criminals, malicious actors, and other cyber threats. 24/7 security monitoring also gives MSPs the ability to detect anomalies quickly and respond before serious damage is done.

An MSSP will use monitoring tools to investigate suspicious activity, detect new threats, and implement security policies. This ensures their clients’ networks stay secure from data breaches, malware infections, and other cyberattacks.

Additionally, 24/7 security monitoring provides peace of mind for MSPs by offering real-time updates and notifications for their clients when changes or threats occur. With 24/7 monitoring, MSPs can provide their clients with the best possible protection against online threats.

By having an around-the-clock security monitoring service in place, MSPs can ensure their clients are always up to date on the latest trends in cyber security and can respond quickly to any detected threats. With continuous monitoring, MSPs can ensure their enterprise clients have secure networks and keep their data secure.

Top Managed Security Service Providers

If your organization is ready to start working with an MSSP, consider looking at user reviews. G2 provides a list of managed security service providers with ratings from their actual clients.

In addition to user reviews, compare the services offered by each MSSP. Top providers may offer a range of services from risk assessment and consulting to security monitoring, management, and incident response. Look for an MSSP providing security services that can meet the specific needs of your organization’s security policy.

Be sure to look at not only the services offered but also the pricing structure of each provider. Some MSSPs offer flat-rate or subscription-based pricing plans with predetermined service levels, while others may offer a la carte services that you can customize for your organization’s security needs. Whichever option you go with, it’s important to compare costs to ensure you get the best value for your money.

Finally, it’s important to ask about support and reporting capabilities managed service provider. Most MSSPs offer a range of service levels that include 24/7 monitoring and response as well as regular reports on security incidents and recommendations for improvements. Look at the types of data gathered by each provider to ensure they can provide the information you need.

When choosing an MSSP, it’s important to do your research and compare your options in terms of services, pricing, and support capabilities. Doing so will help you find an MSSP that provides the security solutions your organization needs at a cost that fits within your budget.

Compliance

24/7 security monitoring also allows you to keep up with the latest compliance regulations and standards. This helps them stay compliant with industry-specific laws and regulations, such as HIPAA or PCI, which are essential for protecting sensitive information and ensuring secure data management. By doing security audits and having continuous security monitoring in place, MSPs can help their clients be sure they are meeting the required standards and protecting their clients’ networks from data breaches.

This is especially important for MSPs that cater to larger enterprises, as they must keep up with more stringent security regulations. 24/7 security monitoring allows them to stay on top of the latest requirements and makes it easier for them to identify any gaps in their network security and posture. This helps them ensure their clients remain compliant and can trust their networks will be secure from cyberattacks or data breaches.

Overall, 24/7 security monitoring is an invaluable tool for MSPs to offer and can help them maintain their clients’ trust by providing the highest level of protection possible. With continuous monitoring in place, they can be sure their networks security devices are secure and any threats or vulnerabilities will be discovered quickly. This helps give MSPs peace of mind, knowing their clients’ data is in good hands.

Cybriant’s White-Labeled MSSP Program

Our partner program is the perfect way for MSPs to scale their security services. Our managed security services and solutions are tailored to meet the specific requirements of our clients and provide comprehensive protection against known and emerging threats. With our industry-leading tools, expert staff, and trusted technology partners, we help MSPs better serve their customers with peace of mind. Contact us today to learn more about how Cybriant’s MSSP program can help you scale your security services.

Conclusion

Leveraging an MSSP program effectively allows Managed Service Providers to scale their security services while reducing overhead costs. An MSSP program offers a comprehensive approach to security, providing visibility into current cyber threats, access to best-in-class tools security expertise, and other benefits.

By taking advantage of these benefits, MSPs can ensure that they can keep up with the ever-changing threat landscape and provide better protection for their clients.