One of the worst things that can happen to any finance professional is the loss or corruption of data through the lack of basic, common-sense safeguards.
Here are a few tips for stumping cybercriminals at the first hurdle:
The USB has become a ubiquitous part of office life and is a convenient way of transporting data. They are also exceptionally good at carrying malware and viruses designed to disable systems and generally wreak havoc. To counter this, a new generation of protected USBs is becoming available. USB sticks with built-in keypads can help to block unauthorised use.
Virtual private networks (VPNs) can offer a vital tool in protecting businesses that need to communicate between different hubs over the open internet. By using a VPN, the business can create what amounts to a safe channel between two points (say, head office and a branch in the network), protecting data that passes through it, safe from any prying eyes (or malicious ones). The fact that a VPN is relatively easy to install adds to its attraction.
Double or two-step authentification is a common-sense, no-frills effective way of ensuring unauthorised individuals don’t gain access to devices or systems containing sensitive information. It requires authorised managers to use two different methods of identification to access sensitive applications – a password and digital signature, for example. There is a growing range of authentification tools in the market – Apple, for instance, is pushing its biometrics solution Touch ID, which uses thumbprint technology to block unauthorised access to mobiles and tablets.
Engaging the services of a security consultant to test the strength of your cyber defences can be a useful way of exposing vulnerabilities quickly and quietly. The growth of ‘ethical hacking’ services in recent years has mirrored the rise in cybercrime. This is a valuable exercise – several large banks have submitted themselves to so-called cyber war game exercises recently, and the Bank of England has made no secret of its exercises and efforts in this area.
The HMG Cyber Essentials Scheme sponsored by the UK government sets out to help smaller businesses understand the threats they face and the steps they can take to protect themselves. Described as basic cyber hygiene, the scheme has developed into an assurance framework for businesses in need of greater protection. Find out more here.
Read our full feature on cybercrime here.
Christian Doherty is a business journalist