There are many common assumptions people make on a daily basis that can have a significant impact on your organization’s security. Many of those assumptions can leave a company vulnerable and result in a breach. Here are a few norms that you can rethink to reduce your security vulnerabilities.
Assumption #1. It’ll Never Happen to Me
The biggest mistake that people make is when they simply assume that the worst won’t happen. In fact, a recent survey found that a third of organizations fail to take proper preventative action because they think they won’t fall victim to the type of attacks that make the news. But it only takes one mistake that can lead to a lifetime of consequences.
Assumption #2. It’s Fine to Use the Same Password
Using the same password across multiple accounts (both personal and professional) can make you that much easier to hack. Similarly, not changing passwords often enough will leave you and your network vulnerable. Password complexity is important, but usage patterns can lead to risk all on their own.
Related Content: The True Impact of One Employee Letting Their Computer Password Leak
Assumption #3. If We Follow the Rules We’ll Be Protected
Many businesses make dangerous assumptions in simply how they think about designing their security. They think there are certain rules to follow in order to achieve a state of security, but the fact is that the threat is constantly evolving and therefore your security architecture should too. Making assumptions such as the security of your connection, your firewall, and so on. Hackers are constantly coming up with new ways to attack protected systems, so you should be every vigilant of anything that looks or feel suspicious. Staying on top of your security updates will help, as will using common sense in your internet browsing. But never fall into the trap of thinking that you are fully protected.
Assumption #4. Compliance is the Same as Security
Just because you are in compliance with security regulations, that does not mean that you have achieved a state of sustainable security. Compliance requires investment in security, policies that protect user and customer data, and the overall security of your network operations, but that’s not always enough to prevent an attack. Don’t let such an incident catch you off guard because you assumed your regulatory compliance ensured your security.
Assumption #5. The IT Team Has It Covered
Assuming that your IT professionals will handle everything puts you in a bad position when they suddenly find themselves out of their depth. As a business owner, you don’t need to know all the ins and outs of security, but it’s important to understand the basics. This will help you to hire the right people who will manage overall security, policy, governance, and risk. Gaining an understanding of the general risks and needs of maintaining a secure system will help you understand your teams concerns when you are dealing with a potential breach, an investment decision, or even just deciding whether it’s worth it to update your network firewall.
Related Content: Why You Need to Educate Your Team on Cyber Security
Do you find your business is guilty of any of these assumptions?
If so, give our time at Happy Faces Records Management a call and leave your document security to us.
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