Ten basic rules for building a strong digital fortress
MFA must be enabled across the entire organizational system, and especially for Microsoft 365 and VPN access. A password alone is no longer enough; an additional code on the device is what separates a breach from a foiled attempt.
The antivirus of yesterday has run its course. A modern organization needs an EDR (Endpoint Detection and Response) system that knows how to identify new behavior in real time and stop the spread of ransomware before it does damage.
You need a managed Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW) run by an IT team. It acts as the "gatekeeper" of the network, filtering traffic and blocking access from suspicious countries.
3 copies, 2 different media, 1 copy offsite. Make sure your backup is "Immutable" so that even if ransomware breaches you, it can't delete your backups too.
An employee should only have access to what's required for their role. Concentrating admin permissions in one organization is one of the top causes of widespread damage.
Security gaps in Windows or third-party software (like Adobe) are an open door for attackers. Make sure your organization's software is kept up to date consistently.
What happens if a laptop is stolen? Without encrypting the physical disk, all of your business's data is exposed. Encryption ensures the data stays protected even without the computer itself.
The human factor is the weakest link. Ongoing training on phishing identification and suspicious emails is not a nice-to-have part of your defense system.
A smart protection system for email headers off malicious links and infected files before they reach an employee's inbox.
Enforce using unique or rotated passwords. Move to managing passwords with an organizational password manager.