As we get ready to usher in the new year, it's essential to assess and enhance your cybersecurity program. Let’s explore four key strategies to fortify your defenses in 2024.
1. Perform Regular User Access Reviews:
User access reviews are a fundamental component of an effective cybersecurity strategy and it’s an area that we see often overlooked in many programs. Ensuring that employees have appropriate access privileges minimizes the risk of unauthorized access and potential data breaches.
In 2024, it is essential to conduct regular and thorough user access reviews to identify and address any discrepancies promptly. Start by establishing a systematic review schedule, incorporating automated tools where possible to streamline the process. Regularly assess user roles and permissions, removing unnecessary access and adjusting privileges based on employees' roles and responsibilities. By maintaining a vigilant eye on user access, your organization can significantly reduce the risk of insider threats and unauthorized access attempts.
2. Train and Test Employees Regularly:
Human error remains a leading cause of cybersecurity incidents. In 2024, prioritize ongoing cybersecurity training and testing for all employees. Cyber threats are continually evolving and ensuring that your staff is well-informed and prepared is key to minimizing vulnerabilities.
Implement comprehensive training programs covering topics such as phishing awareness, password hygiene, and social engineering. Conduct simulated phishing exercises to test employees' ability to identify and respond to potential threats. Regular training not only educates employees on the latest cyber threats but also fosters a culture of cybersecurity awareness within the organization.
3. Update Risk Assessments:
As technology advances, so do cyber threats. Regularly updating your organization's risk assessments is crucial to identify emerging risks and vulnerabilities. In 2024, conduct a thorough review of your existing risk assessment framework, taking into account the evolving threat landscape, changes in technology, and modifications to your organization's infrastructure.
Collaborate with key stakeholders to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the organization's assets, vulnerabilities, and potential impact in the event of a security breach. By staying proactive and updating risk assessments regularly, your cybersecurity program can adapt to emerging threats, allowing for more effective risk mitigation strategies.
4. Hire Outside Expertise When Needed:
In certain situations, your organization may encounter challenges that require specialized knowledge and skills beyond your in-house capabilities. Recognizing when to seek external expertise is a key component of a mature cybersecurity program. In 2024, be prepared to engage external cybersecurity professionals to conduct thorough assessments, penetration testing, or to address specific vulnerabilities.
When facing complex and sophisticated threats, leveraging the expertise of external consultants can provide a fresh perspective and insights that may be crucial in fortifying your defenses. Whether it's a one-time assessment or an ongoing partnership, collaborating with cybersecurity experts can enhance your organization's ability to respond effectively to evolving threats.
Bedel Security assists financial institutions across the country with managing their Information Security program. If you have questions or would like to learn more about what we do, please contact us at support@bedelsecurity.com to start a conversation.