[Manny Varela]

Discuss the various risks and vulnerabilities companies face today as well as mitigating policies that help reduce a network compromise.

[Marcena Davis]

Risks and Vulnerabilities:

– Malware and Ransomware: Malicious software can infect a network, causing data breaches or locking systems until a ransom is paid.
– Phishing Attacks: Cybercriminals use fake emails or websites to trick employees into revealing sensitive information like passwords.
– Insider Threats: Employees or trusted individuals with access to company systems may misuse their privileges or unintentionally expose data.
– Weak Passwords: Simple, easy-to-guess passwords can lead to unauthorized access.
– Outdated Software: Failing to update software and security patches can leave vulnerabilities open for exploitation.
– Social Engineering: Attackers manipulate people into divulging confidential information through psychological manipulation.
– Third-Party Risks: Suppliers or partners may introduce vulnerabilities, leading to supply chain attacks.
– Unsecured IoT Devices: Internet of Things devices often lack robust security, offering entry points for attackers.
– Data Leaks: Sensitive data may be exposed due to misconfigurations, human error, or lack of encryption.

Mitigating Policies:

– Antivirus and Anti-Malware Software: Install and regularly update antivirus and anti-malware tools to detect and remove malicious software.
– Employee Training: Conduct cybersecurity awareness training to educate employees about phishing and other threats.
– Access Controls: Implement strong access control policies, limiting access to data based on job roles and responsibilities.
– Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Require MFA to add an extra layer of security beyond passwords.
– Patch Management: Keep software and systems up to date with the latest security patches.
– Incident Response Plan: Develop a response plan for cyber incidents to minimize damage and downtime.
– Network Segmentation: Divide the network into segments to contain breaches and limit lateral movement by attackers.
– Regular Security Audits: Perform security audits and vulnerability assessments to identify weaknesses.
– Encryption: Encrypt sensitive data both in transit and at rest to protect it from unauthorized access.
– Secure Configuration: Ensure that all devices and systems are securely configured to minimize risks.
– Data Backups: Regularly back up critical data and test restoration procedures to recover from ransomware attacks.

By implementing these policies and measures, companies can significantly reduce their network compromise risks and enhance their overall cybersecurity posture. Staying vigilant and adapting to evolving threats is also essential in the ever-changing landscape of cybersecurity.

[jpurdy@ohiochristian.edu]

Are there any of these mitigating policies that you consider to be more important than others?

[Marcena Davis]

Antivirus and anti-malware tools, employee training, and multi-factor authentication are often considered top priorities because they directly address common attack vectors and human error. Regular security audits and encryption are also vital for overall protection. However, the importance of each policy can vary based on an organization’s unique needs and vulnerabilities, so a comprehensive approach that includes all these measures is typically recommended for robust cybersecurity.

[Author]

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