There’s no denying that cybersecurity is a global business concern. It’s important to ensure enterprise security at all levels, primarily because businesses operate in hybrid IT environments, which rely on both cloud and on-premise solutions. Beyond IP video surveillance and using firewalls for networked devices, there are many steps that can enhance cybersecurity. In this post, we are debunking common cybersecurity myths related to small businesses.
#1 – Only big businesses suffer cyberattacks
Probably that’s the biggest myth about cybersecurity. Numerous studies and reports have shown that small businesses are constantly being attacked by hackers, primarily because they have considerable data and information, and yet, these companies don’t spend as much on cybersecurity measures. If data is to be believed, every other small business has suffered a cyberattack. Hackers can hack anything – Unless you are a step ahead in ensuring cybersecurity.
#2 – Just using firewalls and antimalware software is enough
That’s another big misconception among entrepreneurs. Yes, antimalware & antivirus software can alert users on possible issues and attacks, but just using software is not enough. Firewalls are useful too, but for assured network protection, other cybersecurity measures may be necessary. A good example of that would be network segmentation.
#3 – There’s no need for multifactor authentication.
While creating strong and long passwords is a great step, multifactor authentication is often necessary for certain resources, accounts and users. There are varied ways in which multifactor authentication can be used – from adding a security question, to use of biometrics. Privilege accounts and users, for instance, must have a second layer of security.
#4 – All cybersecurity threats are related to outsiders
Hackers and cybercriminals are constantly looking for ways to attack systems, devices and networks, and while these attacks are launched by outsiders, insider threats are real. More often than not, employees and managers are responsible for leaking sensitive information and data, either unintentionally or deliberately. This is the precise reason why employees must be trained on cybersecurity.
#5 – Only big companies hire ethical hackers
Untrue. Small companies can run bug bounty programs and hire ethical hackers too. You only pay ethical hackers when they find security flaws and vulnerabilities, and these payments can be discussed. The money paid to ethical hackers is way less than what you would have to spend otherwise, in case a security incident occurs.
Cybersecurity and its relevance extend beyond complying to laws. It must concern every department, employee and manager within the business setup, and there’s a need to be proactive, rather than being reactive.
