7 Cyber security practices you need to know about

In our digitised world, HR has the opportunity to transform and evolve its role. In 2023 alone, there were 2,365 cyberattacks affecting 343,338,964 victims. Email was the most common method for delivering malware, leading to 94% of organisations reporting email security incidents.

Safeguarding sensitive employee data and digital assets is just one way effective HR can contribute to maintaining your company’s reputation. Complying with data protection regulations (such as GDPR) is essential, so, what can you do to keep your business compliant when it comes to data privacy?

Educate and train employees

The first line of defence against cyber threats is a well-informed team. Regularly conducted training sessions will  educate your employees about the latest cyber threats, phishing scams, and safe online practices. Ensure your team understands the importance of using strong passwords, recognising suspicious emails, and reporting potential security breaches immediately.

Implement strong password policies

Weak passwords are a common entry point for cybercriminals. Enforce a strong password policy that requires employees to use complex passwords with a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters. Additionally, encourage the use of multi-factor authentication (commonly referred to as MFA) to add an extra layer of security to sensitive accounts.

An example of a weak password would be: ilovehrsoftware

A stronger version of this password would be: !Lov3Myhrs0ftware

Regular software updates and patching

Cyber threats often exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software. Make sure you regularly update all of your operating systems, software applications, and security systems to the latest versions. We also advise to implement a patch management system to ensure that updates are applied promptly across all devices within your organisation.

Utilise firewalls and antivirus software

Firewalls and antivirus software are essential tools for protecting your network from cyber attacks. Ensure robust firewall solutions are in place to monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic, and install reputable antivirus software on all devices. Keep the antivirus software updated to effectively detect and mitigate threats.

Secure wi-fi networks

Unsecured Wi-Fi networks can be an easy target for cybercriminals. Protect your company’s Wi-Fi with strong encryption (WPA3, if possible) and change the default passwords on all network devices. Consider setting up a separate network for guests to prevent unauthorised access to the company’s internal systems.

Data encryption

Encrypting sensitive data adds a significant layer of protection against cyber threats. Ensure that all sensitive information, both in transit and at rest, is encrypted using robust encryption protocols. This practice ensures that even if data is intercepted, it remains unreadable without the appropriate decryption key.

Regular backups and disaster recovery planning

Regular data backups are crucial for minimising the impact of a cyberattack. Implement a comprehensive backup strategy that includes regular, automated backups of all critical data. Store backups in a secure, off-site location and periodically test them to ensure they can be restored effectively. Additionally, develop and maintain a disaster recovery plan to swiftly respond to and recover from cyber incidents.

Conclusion

Cyber security is a continuous process that requires vigilance and proactive measures. By implementing these seven practices, your organisation can significantly reduce the risk of cyber threats and safeguard its valuable data.

Remember, staying informed and prepared is key to maintaining a secure and resilient business environment. If you’d like to learn more about how to protect yourself online, you can sign up to our cybersecurity course here.