Defenses MSPs Can Take Against Cyber Attacks

March 18, 2023

There are many ways to prevent cyber attacks from taking place, but MSPs can take top defenses to keep their clients secure. These include encrypting data in transit and at rest, setting up app-based multi-factor authentication, keeping the attack surface small, and hardening vulnerable devices.

Maintain a small attack surface

The threat landscape is constantly shifting, which makes smart cybersecurity practices so essential. One of the most basic security measures is to keep the attack surface as small as possible.

In a computer environment, the attack surface is the collection of all potential points where an attacker could gain access to your network. This includes users, hardware and software – all vulnerable to malicious insiders and third parties alike. Reducing the attack surface as much as possible helps to minimize the risk of unauthorized access to your network. The first step in doing this is identifying all vulnerabilities within that attack surface.

Manage user permissions is another effective way to reduce the attack surface. Users should only have access to what they need for their roles and should only have specific knowledge of critical systems.

Establish App-based Multifactor Authentication for All Devices

Multifactor authentication (MFA) is an essential security measure to protect your business from cyber attacks. It adds another layer of defense against data breaches, identity theft and other types of hacking attempts. Yet while MFA is a valuable tool, it does not guarantee protection from every potential attack.
Multifactor authentication (MFA) can be implemented at both an application and service level, whether on-premises or in the cloud. It works with any device and may also be deployed at user, group or system levels. No matter where it’s deployed, MFA offers great protection for your company’s data while thwarting unauthorized access.

One of the foundational elements of multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a one-time password. This four to eight digit code is sent directly to a user’s mobile phone through an app and generated each time an authentication request is made.

Encrypt sensitive data at rest, in-transit and during processing

MSPs are essential in protecting businesses against cyberattacks. Not only do they safeguard business information, but MSPs also educate businesses on why database encryption is so important. Sensitive data may include medical records, Social Security numbers and financial details. If a company loses this information it could be used for identity fraud or corporate espionage; thus it’s essential that this data remain secure at all times.

Maintaining the security of your data is no small feat. It requires both proactive measures and tight access controls, plus employee education regarding the significance of protecting their information.

When it comes to data encryption, there are various tools available. Online services often come with built-in encryption settings. Other solutions like Apple FileVault, Windows BitLocker and Linux dm-crypt can also be utilized.

Encrypt sensitive data at rest, in-transit and during processing

Protecting sensitive data is of the utmost importance for modern businesses, with cyber threats on the rise. It’s essential to safeguard both digital evidence and employee privacy by encrypting sensitive information at each step.

Protecting your sensitive data is the primary goal of encryption – to prevent theft or unauthorized use. Encrypting it before it’s transferred, stored, or processed ensures it can only be accessed by authorized parties and helps safeguard against accidental loss or data compromise.
Data is typically considered to be at rest when not in use, such as on a hard drive, flash drive or server. It may also reside in the cloud or on your mobile device.

Encryption can be employed to protect data in transit, such as files moved to a removable drive or cloud storage platform. It also serves to encrypt information sent through email messages or across a network for safekeeping.

Prevent cyber-attacks by hardening vulnerable devices and remote access tools

If you’re searching for ways to guard against cyber attacks, hardening vulnerable devices and using remote access tools is one of the best solutions. After all, malware and AI-powered cyberattacks can be devastating if left unchecked.

These threats can cause businesses to lose sensitive information, experience identity theft and sustain reputational damage. These risks are on the rise as more data becomes digitalized.

Cyber-attacks are malicious attempts to gain unauthorized access to an information system. This often results in the loss of confidential data and disruption to services.

Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) are typically sponsored by national or international organizations and can remain undetected for years. These threats have the potential to disrupt trading and impose significant costs on organizations.

Hackers use illicit or legal means to gain unauthorized access to systems. They also manipulate, extort, or corrupt sensitive information for financial gain.

Ammar Fakhruddin

ABOUT AUTHOR

Ammar brings in 18 years of experience in strategic solutions and product development in Public Sector, Oil & Gas and Healthcare organizations. He loves solving complex real world business and data problems by bringing in leading-edge solutions that are cost effective, improve customer and employee experience. At Propelex he focuses on helping businesses achieve digital excellence using Smart Data & Cybersecurity solutions.


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