Basics of IT Security

Basics of IT Security

IT Security or Information Technology security is a method to protect data present in anyone’s computer. This could range from home users to corporate, government, and security establishments. Attacks on computer systems include internal users and external threats and any IT Security policy needs to consider both these aspects of the attack.

With the invention and growth of the internet, cybersecurity adds to the woes of data theft with a multi-pronged attack from across the globe. The ever-growing dependence of the Internet for doing business and mobile devices communication necessitates businesses to have a policy on IT security and to protect their IT networks.

Though larger organizations understand the IT security & cyber threats and implemented systems to safeguard their network, many small to medium companies are unclear about the possible attacks. Many SME’s tend to ignore as they feel they won’t be a viable target.

In fact, all internet-facing organizations these days are vulnerable to attack and the question is when you will be attacked. The majority of the cyber-attacks are automated exploiting the known vulnerabilities in the prevailing hardware/software. Most of the time the attacks are not to a specific organization and random.

Security is a wide range of the issue and it needs to be addressed from a physical layer to cloud.

Possible methods of IT security breach and attacks are

• Physical
• Data theft
• Natural disasters
• Disgruntled employees
• Malfunction of Hardware & Software
• Incidental OR accidental mishandling of data by users
• Viruses, Malware and Spywares and unprotected computers
• Unprotected and less secure wireless networks and communication devices
• Attacks through the Internet and hacking into unprotected networks
• Cloud and weak software applications

Effective losses

• Loss of valuable data
• Transfer of data to competitors
• Theft of patented and corporate details
• Stagnation of business and commercial loss

Best practices on IT Security

The best way to prevent an IT security breach is to be proactive by following best practices & policies and to ensure its effective implementation.

• Perimeter security with latest NGN OR a UTM with regular updates
• End-Point security with proper Antivirus system and regular updates
• Vulnerable and critical patches of workstations and servers
• Server hardening
• Proper backup strategy and disaster recovery solution
• Wireless network with strict encryption policies
• Web-content management and fine-tuned web traffic
• User management and strict enforcement of Password policy
• Well-drafted Social media policy and effective implementation
• Manage and control Your Employees’ Access to Data from the beginning
• Use Devices and Systems that has best compliance and standards
• Policy and Wipe-off technology on BYOD devices
• Effective implementation plan and constant monitoring by IT staff
• Finally, regular cross-checks and testing plans to be put in place

RAMMP IT Solution has a wealth of experience in IT & Cybersecurity and risk management.

Our security consultants are available for a free consultation. If you need our help, please do drop us a note to the Sales Department.