As the world becomes increasingly digital, cyber security protects computers, electronic systems and networks, sensitive data and financial assets against hacker attacks. From computer viruses to sophisticated and costly ransomware, the threats are real and growing. Cybersecurity includes the technologies and practices that prevent attacks and mitigate their impact, including threat intelligence, risk management and disaster recovery.
As cyberattacks become more sophisticated, cybersecurity must evolve to keep up. As a result, it’s now common for organizations to have dedicated staff and departments focused on cyber-defense. Cybersecurity is a rapidly evolving field that’s a crucial part of modern business.
What is Cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity is a multifaceted field that encompasses everything from computer viruses to cryptojacking, ransomware and more. The threat landscape is constantly changing, with new vulnerabilities appearing almost daily. In 2023 alone, the number of records exposed through data breaches jumped to 5.1 billion, an increase of 89% from the previous year.
While the ubiquity of technology provides tremendous business advantages and human progress, it also creates more opportunities for criminals. Attackers may be motivated by financial gain, fun or simply the thrill of breaking into something they shouldn’t. From the infamous Markus Hess who hacked for the KGB to state-sponsored attackers and more, there is no shortage of people trying to steal information from businesses and individuals.
To combat this, cybersecurity includes everything from firewalls and anti-virus software to encryption and password protection. It involves training end-users to delete suspicious emails, not plug in unidentified USB drives and other good cyber hygiene practices. It’s also about implementing intrusion detection, network penetration testing, source code reviews, red team assessments and other forms of assessment.
Another major component of cybersecurity is ensuring that a business’s critical systems are always up and running. This is achieved through backups, which are multiple copies of a file that are stored in different locations. They are designed to ensure that even if a single copy is lost or damaged, others will be available to restore the data.
Having a robust cybersecurity strategy in place is essential for any business. It can seem like a significant investment, but it’s one that will save companies money in the long run by protecting against expensive cyber-attacks. It’s also important to remember that a successful attack doesn’t require advanced equipment or technical skills – many of the methods used by cybercriminals are very simple and accessible.SOC
