Blog

Cyber Resilience and Risk Management Top 10 Takeaways

Posted on by Darragh Reynolds
cyber takeaways
16
Oct

Cyber security is a critical issue for businesses of all sizes, and it is important to stay up-to-date on the latest threats and trends. Our recent cyber security conference, CommSec Live 2023: Cyber Resilience and Managing Risk in a Connected, was a great opportunity to learn from experts and to network with other professionals in the field. During the day we witnessed several speakers, a fireside chat and a panel discussion. We have compiled the top 10 takeaways from the conference to help you prioritise where to concentrate your security efforts.

CommSec Live Conference

Top 10 Takeaways from CommSec Live:

  1. Adhering to Standards: Following international cybersecurity standards like NIS2, DORA, or ISO 27001 provides a structured approach to managing cyber risk. These standards offer a well-defined framework for implementing security measures, ensuring that your organisation is well-prepared and compliant with industry best practices.
  2. Top-Down Approach to Cyber Resilience: Cybersecurity should be a board-level concern. Building a culture of security that starts at the top and cascades through the organisation is crucial. When leaders prioritise cybersecurity, it sends a clear message that security is not just an IT issue but a fundamental business concern.
  3. Ransomware Mitigation: Ransomware remains a significant threat. Implementing cybersecurity and Business Contingency Planning, including cyber insurance, incident response planning, regular data backups, and security awareness training, is essential. These measures reduce the risk of falling victim to ransomware attacks and help in swift recovery.
  4. Cloud Security Emphasis: The cloud is a prime target for cyberattacks. Misconfigurations and outdated security patches often expose cloud environments. It’s imperative to prioritise cloud security measures, just as you would for on-site servers. Regularly update and secure cloud resources to mitigate vulnerabilities.
  5. Vulnerability Management: Regularly evaluating and scanning your IT environment for vulnerabilities is critical. Prioritise these vulnerabilities based on their risk level to address the most critical ones first. This approach ensures efficient resource allocation and reduces potential points of exploitation.
  6. M365 Security Customisation: Microsoft 365 (M365) requires customised security configurations beyond its default settings. Follow recommendations from trusted sources like the NCSC and consider a security assessment to identify and close any gaps specific to your M365 environment. Customisation is vital for a robust defence.
  7. MDR and SOC Monitoring: Managed Detection and Response (MDR) and 24/7 Security Operation Centre (SOC) monitoring provide continuous threat detection and response capabilities. These services are now accessible to Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), enabling quicker and more effective responses to cyber threats, and reducing the risk of major incidents.
  8. Choose Cybersecurity Solutions Wisely: Invest in cybersecurity tools that not only offer protection but also integrate seamlessly into your business processes. Choosing reliable vendors is crucial, as they provide guidance and support for effective implementation. Value for money should be a top consideration.
  9. AI’s Dual Role: Artificial intelligence (AI) can be a powerful ally in developing innovative cybersecurity solutions, but it can also be harnessed by cybercriminals for sophisticated attacks. It’s vital to understand both the potential benefits and risks of AI in cybersecurity and take steps to mitigate its negative impacts.
  10. Online Safety for Children: Protecting the digital future of children is a shared responsibility. Parents, teachers, caregivers, and even the children themselves all play a part. Furthermore, it’s essential to advocate for government legislation that safeguards children online and encourage tech companies to implement content controls and other measures that protect vulnerable young users.

Incorporating these tips into your cybersecurity strategy will help your organisation establish a strong defence against evolving cyber threats and contribute to a safer digital environment for everyone.

These are just a few of the key takeaways from the cyber security conference. It was a valuable event that provided a lot of insights into the latest threats and trends. If you are interested in learning more, I encourage you to watch the recordings of the talks or to read the conference materials.

Further CommSec Live Resources:

Get in touch

Protect your organisation from cyber threats, enhance your security posture, and safeguard your digital future. Our team is here to help you every step of the way. Get in touch and contact us today.