Be Prepared
We learn lessons every time there is a catastrophe or potential catastrophe like this. I say that we learn them, but I mean that we could learn them if we would pay attention, reflect, consider, plan, execute, and anticipate.
Lessons we would all acknowledge, but we cannot say we have learned until we implement strategies are:
1. We are vulnerable and getting more vulnerable daily because we are growing more dependent upon technology.
2. We have sources and resources for protection. They cost time and money, but they can help eliminate, ameliorate, or minimize great loss.
3. The old Cold War notion of the domino effect applies to our digital world and networks today. When one sector goes down, all are potentially effected.
4. The suffering that is possible when the network crashes does not simply plague the powerful; it touches the most vulnerable. It is human suffering.
5. The time to plan for crisis is when we are not in a crisis.
6. Those who are prepared, recover more quickly.
7. Not just big companies, but small businesses and individuals need backup plans for storage and for operations.
What am I missing? If you say "nothing," we are all at risk, but cause there is always something we are missing.
That reality keeps us on our toes
The key is to prepare Be Prepared.
Preparing for a cyber attack is crucial for businesses to ensure the security of their data and operations. Here is a comprehensive guide to help a business prepare for potential cyber threats:
P. Policy
You should have some clear and implementable security policies in place. Study best practices and standard for your industry. Follow your policies with a plan and make sure all of your staff understands and is trained to implement.
R. Risk Assessment
Do a risk assessment. Identify potential vulnerabilities. Be aware of threats and threats. Understand the changing landscape of the risks in the field. Be adaptable. Consult your insurance carrier for advice.
E. Employees
Your staff and volunteers are your first line of defense. Train them to recognize phishing attempts and to understand safe internet use. Keep the training up-to-date,.
P. Purchase
Buy the software, antivirus protection, and consulting you need to head off an attack and recover when one occurs. The dollars you spend on this side of an attack will be saved many-fold after one.
A. Authentication
Implement multi-factor authentication for accessing sensitive systems and data. Utilize strong passwords. Keep them updated.
R. Review
Don't count on anything to remain stable. Monitor, inspect, review, revise, resource, and renew regularly.
E. Encrypt
Encrypt your data. Move it securely. Back it up regularly and religiously. Utilize redundancy.
D. Do It. Test it. Insure it. Monitor it.
All of this is about implementation, otherwise known as doing. Just thinking about it will not protect you. Get it done. Once you have a plan, test it. Get insurance. Get advice. Get eyes on the project. Get it done.
There is much more to it and this is not intended to exhaust the subject. But if you start with this acronym, you will be on your way to being P-R-E-P-A-R-E-D