Reinforcing Your Digital Perimeter to Keep Cyberattackers Out

We operate in an age where cyber threats loom large, and security breaches pose a substantial risk to all organizations. Implementing effective network security measures is not just an option—it's a necessity.

According to the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore's (CSA's) Singapore Cybersecurity Health Report 2023, lack of knowledge and experience in cybersecurity is the top challenge faced by organizations (59% for businesses, 56% for non-profits), followed by the perceived unlikelihood of being a target of cyberattacks (46% for businesses, 49% for non-profits). These are worrying signs of complacency or unwarranted overconfidence that need to be addressed.

Monitoring unauthorized access to your network is a cornerstone of robust cybersecurity and is a crucial line of defense. Unauthorized access can lead to data breaches, privacy infringements, and critical system vulnerabilities. Timely detection of these access attempts enables swift responses, such as isolating compromised devices and strengthening security measures to prevent further unauthorized access to a resource. Additionally, monitoring is essential for spotting internal threats and assuring adherence to rules, laws, and industry standards. Vigilant monitoring is key to preserving the integrity and confidentiality of your network.

Below are four practices organizations can implement to reinforce the security of their digital perimeters.

1. Implement effective authentication protocols

The foremost step in strengthening network security is enforcing reliable authentication mechanisms. The conventional username and password system is no longer sufficient to fend off cyberattacks, so implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible is vital. MFA requires users to provide two or more verification factors, like a password and a one-time code sent to their mobile device. This greatly improves security by making it far more difficult for unauthorized users to access your network.

2. Restrict user access privileges

The level of resource access that each user in your network needs varies. It is crucial to restrict user access privileges to the bare minimum required for their tasks to reduce the risk of data breaches. Implement the principle of least privilege (PoLP) to ensure users only have access to the resources they need to complete their particular duties. Review and adjust these access permissions frequently to account for shifting needs.

3. Employ network segmentation

Segmenting a network involves dividing it into smaller, isolated segments. You can minimize the potential damage from a breach by prohibiting unauthorized lateral movement within the network. Even if there is a breach, it will be difficult for the intruder to access other segments of your network since there is an additional layer of security between each segment. Access controls and firewalls can be used between segments to improve network security further.

4. Regularly update and patch software

Cybercriminals frequently target unpatched or outdated software. The CSA, the Personal Data Protection Commission (PDPC), and the Singapore Police Force have observed incidents where threat actors targeted data victims stored on their network-attached storage (NAS) systems. Files on NAS systems were removed, and a ransom note was left behind, demanding a ransom in the form of cryptocurrency such as Bitcoin.

Unpatched, outdated software introduces vulnerabilities that give criminals easy access to your network. To prevent this, ensure that all software, operating systems, and applications are regularly updated and patched with the latest security fixes. This reduces the risk of exploitation by known vulnerabilities, making it significantly harder for cyber threats to compromise your network.

These four methods of defending your digital perimeter represent proactive, interconnected measures that reduce vulnerabilities and offer a strong foundation for your network security. Apart from these fundamental guidelines, dealing effectively with the ever-changing landscape of cyber threats requires being alert, knowledgeable, and adaptive. In the face of a continuously changing digital ecosystem, security is an ongoing effort that should always remain a priority.

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of CDOTrends. Image credit: iStockphoto/ Sukanya Sonlila