Cyber Security Awareness Month Wrap-Up: 4 Steps to Strengthen Your Defence
Cyber security Essentials: The Four Steps Every Organisation Should Take
Now that cyber security Awareness Month has come to an end, it’s worth reflecting on the steps we can take to protect our organisations from cyber threats. This year, the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) highlighted four essential actions that, while simple, can dramatically increase cyber security resilience. With cybercrime on the rise, now is the perfect time to revisit these recommendations and understand why they’re vital all year round.
1. Turn on Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Enabling MFA is one of the simplest yet most effective measures to secure online accounts. MFA adds an additional layer of verification beyond just a password, requiring users to confirm their identity through a secondary method like a code sent to their phone or a biometric scan. Even if a hacker manages to obtain a password, MFA can act as a barrier, stopping unauthorised access before it begins.
Organisations can encourage MFA adoption by enabling it across all platforms where sensitive data is stored or accessed. Employees should be educated on how MFA works and why it’s essential. Beyond individual accounts, applying MFA to access administrative functions or critical systems helps protect the organisation as a whole.
2. Keep Devices and Software Updated
Software updates may seem like a minor nuisance, but they’re a crucial part of cyber security. Updates often contain patches for security vulnerabilities that attackers are quick to exploit. Failing to update devices and software leaves an organisation open to attack, even if other defences are in place.
Implementing a robust vulnerability management plan can reduce admin overhead for patching and minimise these vulnerabilities. Automated updates and reminders can help streamline this process, ensuring devices stay secure with minimal disruption to day-to-day operations.
3. Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Weak or reused passwords are still one of the biggest security risks today. Instead of simple, easily guessed passwords, experts recommend using passphrases—longer, memorable phrases that are unique to each account. For example, “Sunset!River$2024” is both complex and easy to remember.
Encouraging employees to use passphrases or a password manager can enhance password security across the organisation. A password manager can generate and store complex passwords, reducing the temptation to reuse them. While password policies might vary, enforcing standards for password length, complexity, and unique usage can create a strong line of defense. Consider implementing an enterprise password management solution in your organisation to minimise the impact of compromised employee vaults.
4. Recognise and Report Phishing
Phishing attacks remain one of the most common cyber threats, often acting as the gateway to more extensive attacks. These attacks usually come in the form of deceptive emails, messages, or websites designed to trick users into providing sensitive information or downloading malware. Recognising the signs of phishing—such as suspicious links, unknown senders, and urgent requests for sensitive information—can prevent costly data breaches.
Education is the best defence against phishing. Organisations should provide training sessions, real-life examples, and regular phishing simulations to help employees spot phishing attempts. Equally important is creating a clear reporting system so employees know exactly what to do if they encounter a suspicious message. Reporting suspected phishing attempts promptly allows IT teams to address potential threats before they escalate.
Taking Action Beyond October
While these four steps are straightforward, their impact can be profound. Cyber threats are constant, and proactive measures can prevent or mitigate serious breaches. cyber security Awareness Month may be ending, but protecting your organisation should be a year-round priority. Building a strong cyber security foundation now can help avoid the costly and damaging effects of cybercrime in the future.
For a deeper look into each of these steps and practical tips on implementing them, have a look at our other insight articles. Remember: it only takes a few simple actions to make a substantial difference in your cyber security posture.
Why Frame Secure?
Addressing cyber security vulnerabilities is paramount for safeguarding your organisation’s assets and reputation. Frame offers tailored solutions to effectively mitigate these risks.
We provide comprehensive assessments to evaluate your organisation’s cyber security posture, aligning with industry standards and regulations. Our accredited experts, certified by leading vendors such as Microsoft, Cisco, and VMware, deliver fast and reliable assessments to ensure that your organisation meets the highest standards of cyber security.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Take proactive steps to enhance your cyber security posture with Frame’s tailored solutions and expertise. Secure your organisation’s future today.
