We are living in a digital age right now which means you need to be doing everything that you can to remain well versed in digital security. All information is being held on computers, on iPads, on handheld devices and even in the cloud. Understanding how to protect our information across all of these platforms it’s not the easiest thing to do, which is why as a business you need to hire an expert to help you with this. Information security consists of various tools and strategies that can identify threats, prevent them from coming through and fight against them when they happen against your data.
You need to learn everything from how to password protect a zip file, to how to access information in the clouds and insure that it is safe. You have to ensure that social media profiles, hardware that contain sensitive data and email accounts are completely secure. Still confused? Here are 10 reasons why information security it’s so important your business
- As a business you have information that needs protection. Large governments, hospitals in public sector businesses are often in more danger than private companies. However, that doesn’t mean that private companies are exempt from being hacked. Your financial accounts, medical records, national security secret and social security information is all up for grabs by a clever and qualified hacker. You are not immune to having your information stolen which is why information security is so important. If you have information that needs protection, then protect it.
- You cannot get away from the threats. No matter where you go, no matter what you do, your information is freely available for anybody who is willing to try and get it. From viruses and information extortion to intellectual property theft and physical equipment theft, these threats are everywhere. Ransomware is a threat where a hacker will block access to information, or they will threaten to release it until they are paid – yes, it’s blackmail. There isn’t just maliciousness within this, but the biggest threat to you as a business are those who don’t follow your policies.
- It’s required. Some businesses in some countries who deal with data must implement information security policies and strategies to remain legal. Privacy guidelines must be upheld and they are very strict, so if your business is not adhering to the privacy guidelines, you’re going to find yourself in hot water in no time at all. The government does keep an eye on this, and if you want your business to be legitimate you need to be aware of it too.
- It’s too expensive not to. There are so many ways a security breach can happen and they can all be very costly to repair. It’s not just the cost of losing business or interrupting your business that a security breach will give you, but the loss of revenue and loss of trust from your customers who have had that information stolen or some of the biggest costs. There are plenty of new security measures I did every single year that businesses can take advantage of, so you don’t have to let things go down this way.
- Attackers are smart. Information security is essential these days and cyber attackers know this. Their attacks are becoming more sophisticated as technology improves, so while advancements in technology is a wonderful thing, it can also be a very dangerous thing for individuals and businesses around the world. If you are aware of this happening, then you will be able to stop it from happening to you.
- There are state sponsored hackers out there. Not every hacker is just a ninja clothing and watching you through a lens. There are some hacker groups that are funded by the government to destabilize or interfere with other nations. If your business is involved in the government, and your business is also at risk. Without information security, you are going to be open to attack.
- The Internet of things is making it easier. The Internet of things is a massive network of physical objects fitted with software and senses that allows you to connect to the Internet and other devices. Thermostats, toys, cars, fitness trackers, phones – all of these seemingly innocent and everyday devices are vulnerable. Because these devices are mass produced, a security flaw causes a very big problem for millions around the world. If you ensure that your information security is completely secure. And you are confident in security, you’re going to be able to avoid your things from being hacked.
- It’s a growing career field. Information security isn’t just about protecting business interests. It’s now a growing field wieb plenty of jobs are being created, which is generating more money for the economy and for those who love to work within it. Sales engineers, chief information security offices, and technicians can all make big money. As with a lot of tech jobs, skills and experience can determine how much you’re paid but with a specialized job, it’s too easy to earn a great wage.
- You are going to build trust. You will always see data breaches for big companies in the news and the reason for that is because they are big sensational news items. People need to know if the information is not protected or secure, and while it will mean that people lose trust in your company, you can prevent that from happening by just ensuring that your data is secure. Not only do you need to have the best security measures and conduct regular security assessments, you need to know what’s happening with your information and whether or not it is properly secured. You should also have an action plan that is accessible to the public eye and know what will happen if data is breached.
- Cyber attacks happen more during chaotic times. We’ve been through a pandemic and during that time cyber attacks doubled in 2020. Businesses that are associated with response efforts to Covid were hit the most, and more companies were suffering as their employees moved to remote work. This is even more vulnerable to hackers.
