By Marty Rickard, Senior Customer Success Manager – APAC, Nozomi Networks
This article originally appeared in the October 24 magazine issue of IoT Insider.
In today’s digital age, cyber security has become a critical concern for organisations worldwide. From sophisticated cyber threats to internal vulnerabilities, businesses face a multitude of challenges in safeguarding their assets and data.
Managing security risks
One of the foremost challenges encountered by enterprises is the existence of unpatched or un-patchable vulnerabilities within their systems. As organisations meticulously catalogue their assets, they often uncover vulnerabilities that remain unresolved due to various reasons, including compatibility issues or the absence of patches. Addressing these vulnerabilities is crucial for developing a comprehensive risk management strategy and prioritising upgrade projects, particularly in operational technology (OT) environments where disruptions can have significant repercussions.
Another pervasive issue is the presence of ‘shadow’ devices, which lurk within networks unbeknownst to security teams. These devices, whether forgotten or intentionally installed to circumvent obstacles, pose significant security risks if left undetected. Automated network discovery solutions play a vital role in identifying these shadow devices, enabling organisations to mitigate associated vulnerabilities and bolster their defences.
User accounts with excessive privileges represent yet another Achilles’ heel in organisational security. Over time, employees may accumulate privileges beyond what is necessary for their roles, creating potential entry points for malicious actors. Regular auditing and adjustment of user privileges are imperative to minimise the risk of unauthorised access and data breaches.
Custom software used in business operations introduces its own set of security challenges, particularly when developers or vendors fail to adhere to best practices for vulnerability management. The presence of unknown bugs or security risks in critical software can expose organisations to significant vulnerabilities, underscoring the importance of robust code development practices and thorough vulnerability assessments.
In the realm of cyber threats, phishing and social engineering continue to pose formidable challenges at various levels of an organisation. While the principles of these attacks remain consistent, their execution and sophistication may vary depending on the target. Tailored training and awareness programmes are essential for equipping employees with the knowledge and tools to identify and thwart phishing attempts and social engineering tactics.
The proliferation of IoT devices further complicates the security landscape, particularly when their provenance is uncertain. Without proper scrutiny and management, these devices can introduce vulnerabilities that jeopardise organisational security. Implementing stringent vendor management processes and deploying IoT devices within secure enclaves are essential strategies for mitigating associated risks.
Finally, the human element remains one of the most significant factors in organisational security risks. Employees, whether through malicious intent or inadvertent actions, pose a constant threat to operational and information security. Continuous training and upskilling initiatives are essential for fostering a culture of cyber security awareness and resilience, ensuring that employees remain vigilant against evolving threats.
Government’s role in strengthening cyber security
As businesses navigate the complex terrain of digital security, they are met with a barrage of challenges. Amidst this storm of threats, governments worldwide are stepping forward as beacons of guidance and support, offering essential resources, regulations, and frameworks to help organisations fortify their defences and mitigate risks.
One of the fundamental requirements outlined by many governments is the need for organisations to maintain a comprehensive asset inventory. While this task may seem straightforward, the reality is often far more complex. Manual methods for inventory management can be time-consuming, prone to errors, and ultimately insufficient for addressing the dynamic nature of modern networks. To overcome these challenges, organisations are encouraged to leverage automated solutions that offer real-time visibility, monitoring, and reporting capabilities. By embracing such technology, businesses can efficiently analyse their assets, prioritise risks, and make informed decisions regarding security measures.
However, merely identifying assets is not enough to ensure robust security. Organisations must also assess the value of each system or device to accurately evaluate associated risks. This process requires a systematic approach that involves measuring, analysing, and triaging risks using both quantitative and qualitative methodologies. Moreover, it is essential to consider other risk factors and processes within the business, such as health and safety and production risks. This holistic approach to risk management is vital for developing actionable controls and mitigations that align with organisational objectives.
To support this ongoing process of risk management, organisations are encouraged to adopt a principle akin to the OODA Loop – Observe, Orient, Decide, Act. By continuously monitoring and adjusting security measures based on data insights, organisations can enhance their resilience against threats. Governments play a crucial role in promoting these best practices and providing frameworks for organisations to follow.
Furthermore, accountability and transparency are paramount in demonstrating the effectiveness of security programmes. Governments often require detailed reports tailored to various stakeholders, including operational teams, boards, and legislative bodies. These reports serve as evidence of the value and return on investment (ROI) of security initiatives. Leveraging automated network visibility and monitoring solutions with robust reporting capabilities ensures the quality and accuracy of these reports, thereby enhancing accountability and transparency.
As organisations navigate the complex terrain of digital security, they are met with a barrage of challenges. However, amidst this storm of threats, government support and regulatory frameworks provide a foundation for organisations to strengthen their security posture. By embracing automated solutions, adopting a systematic approach to risk assessment, and leveraging tailored reporting mechanisms, businesses can enhance their resilience against evolving cyber threats and demonstrate their commitment to cyber security best practices.
