Cybersecurity has become a top priority for businesses as more and more organizations shift to remote work and outsourcing. Take a closer look at the top five cybersecurity issues to keep track of in 2021.
Increased Cybersecurity Dangers
More and more organizations worldwide are either transitioning to working from home or making WFH arrangements permanent. This opens a range of digital issues which make businesses attractive targets for cybercriminals.
- 44% of companies didn’t provide cybersecurity training for remote workers
- 74% of remote workers believe there is cybersecurity skills shortage within their firms
- Human error remains the biggest cybersecurity challenge
- 25% of WFH employees noticed increase in corporate email phishing attempts during COVID-19 lockdown and corresponding increase in remote work
- 52% of business leaders say that poor cybersecurity compliance is the biggest challenge in managing a remote workforce
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Takes Centerstage
With MFA, unauthorized access to a company’s network becomes more challenging for hackers. Because there is need for fingerprint identification or unique security code to enter the system, MFA can safeguard user credentials, can alleviate some of the burden on IT personnel, and can significantly reduce the chance of a successful data breach.
- MFA solutions prevent more than WFH-related 75% targeted cyberattacks and more than 95% of bulk phishing attempts
- Relying on default or re-used passwords makes 63% of IoT device owners more prone to hacking
- 99.9% of cyberattacks can be prevented by leveraging MFA technology
Compliance With Various Data Regulatory Schemes
GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) and other privacy laws are applicable to all businesses and all industries even those under the WFH setting. Globally operating organizations must ensure regulatory compliance to protect data, gain trust of customers, and avoid criminal penalties for violations. Data privacy obligations include the following:
- Record keeping of all data collecting and processing activities
- Regular evaluation and upgrade of security measures for data collection and processing
- Immediate notification of appropriate authorities during personal data breach
- Access of trusted networks or cloud services only
- Assign Data Protection Officer (DPO) to oversee and implement all data regulatory policy compliance
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Cybersecurity Skills Gap
Rising cybercrimes worldwide highlights the cybersecurity talent shortage to meet the demand of a growing remote workforce. The costs, level of training, and years of real-world experience are some of the reasons why cybersecurity professionals are in short supply.
Government agencies must collaborate with educational institutions and private entities to develop programs, trainings, and incentives that will bridge the cybersecurity skills gap. With the Fourth Industrial Revolution well on its way, lack of cybersecurity investment is an existential threat for any business.
Vendor Overload
Cybersecurity vendors are everywhere. The problem is they capitalize too much on fear, uncertainty, and doubt scenarios. This is causing organization vendor fatigue and confusion. How to avoid vendor overload?
- Conduct a business impact analysis and risk assessment
- Shortlist vendors that meet specific business needs
- Take the solutions for a test drive before committing
How Secure Are Your Remote Workers?
Software solutions, though not omnipotent, will always work in your favor. In 2021, don’t het outpaced by the variety, speed, and sophistication of cybercriminals. Invest in Certified Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) services that deliver valuable, customizable, real-time contextual insights to protect your business.
Learn more how ClinkIT Security can help address your company’s cybersecurity challenges.
