How can you protect your store from cyber attacks?

Prevent cyber attacks is to keep your all software updated. In fact, turn on automatic updates. Software updates are a vital part of your system’s security. If you fail to keep your computers updated, your systems become more vulnerable to cyber-attacks.

To add to the complexity of passwords, also ensure that your passwords are at least 12 characters. Make sure you are also utilizing Multi-Factor-Authentication to enhance the security of your accounts.

Use multi-factor authentication. Enforce strong passwords. Cybercriminals use automated programs to try thousands of possible password combinations until they find one that works. Don't reuse passwords. Reusing passwords is a huge security risk because it leaves all your accounts vulnerable to a single breach.

Use VPN. It prevents third-parties from accessing the information you send, making sure your data stays secure by encrypting it. Use HTTPS. To find out whether HTTPS is enabled, look in the address bar for "https://." Many browsers show a closed padlock. Use AES. It is essential for cybersecurity and data protection. Businesses across sectors have implemented AES encryption as a standard practice for safeguarding sensitive data since it is crucial to data security.

People often think that software and systems are the best line of defence to cyber attacks, in reality it’s your staff. No software can 100% prevent an attack, there is always a risk of hackers getting through which is outside of the organisation’s control. Therefore one of the things an organisation can control is upskilling of staff to ensure they limit clicking on phishing emails. The more diligent the staff are at responding in the right way to threats, there’s chance of an attack being successful.

To add to Kirsten's response, ensure that you are training your staff, and retraining them at least annually. Make sure to add new training that threat actors may be utilizing to social engineer them. Simulate phishing, and where applicable, smishing and vishing attacks to ensure your team is conscious of those attack vectors.

Most attackers seem to seek out easy targets that have unprotected systems or don’t watch their networks closely enough. Monitor your network. Use SIEM.

Deploy EDR solution (especially the market leading brands) EDR tools play a crucial role in collecting and monitoring data, which is then stored in an endpoint database. The stored data can be utilized to identify the underlying cause of security threats and assess potential cyber risks. By detecting security threats at an early stage of their development, EDR significantly enhances your overall security posture.

Train your staff on good cyber hygiene. Whether technical, non-technical, subordinate or executive staff. Everyone need constant training and awareness on good cyber hygiene.