Cybersecurity Awareness: What are the basics of a good security framework?

An IT infrastructure that you can confidently say is secure is no longer a want; it’s a need. Advancements in technology and the transition from a fully in-office work environment to one that’s more hybrid or remote has introduced a plethora of emerging cyber threats and ways malicious actors can target you and your organization’s data. So how do you combat these threats? And where do you begin? 

In short, with a good security framework. However, we know that developing comprehensive security practices can seem too complicated to try and figure out on your own. That’s why our team of qualified security experts have outlined a list of security requirements that every business should meet. But keep in mind that this list is just the tip of the iceberg for what good security looks like. While all these policies and solutions are necessary, you can always do more to ensure your data is protected: 

Cybersecurity Checklist 

Consider the following list and compare it to what you know your organization currently has in place. Are you able to identify where there might be gaps in your business’s IT infrastructure?  

✅Access Control and Authentication 

Your organization has implemented strong password policies, including multi-factor authentication (MFA), and has restricted access based on job roles and responsibilities. 

✅Data Classification 

Your organization has identified what data and applications are vital to the organization and has restricted access based on job roles and responsibilities.

✅Data Encryption 

Your organization’s sensitive information is protected both in transit and at rest.  

✅Network Security 

A secure firewall and intrusion detection and prevention system is set up, and all network devices (including routers, switches, and access points) are regularly updated and patched.  

✅Endpoint Security 

You have deployed antivirus, endpoint detection & response, and anti-ransomware solutions and, when necessary, promptly apply security updates and patches to operating systems and software.  

✅Backup Disaster & Recovery 

Critical data is backed up and stored either off-site or in the cloud and the backups are protected against ransomware (e.g., air-gapped) 

✅Incident Response Plan 

Your organization has outlined comprehensive steps to take in the event of a cyber incident and has assigned roles and responsibilities for key team members. You regularly test and update the plan. 

✅Employee Training & Awareness 

You provide cybersecurity training sessions to all team members that emphasize the importance of secure technology usage. 

✅Regulatory Compliance 

You adhere to any relevant data protection regulations and standards (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA) and maintain documentation that demonstrates your compliance efforts.

✅Cybersecurity Insurance 

Your organization has an insurance policy that covers cybersecurity incidents that may not be cost effective or practical to mitigate in other ways.

Learn more about how to obtain a comprehensive policy for your business with our cyber insurance checklist.

A Security Framework for Your SUCCESS 

The process of implementing a good security framework can seem daunting, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. We know what good looks like and can work with you to get your infrastructure up to the task. Contact us today for a free network assessment of your full IT framework and we’ll help you get started.