Innovation has opened the door to a world of new possibilities – but it’s also created challenges that must be faced. With every software update comes potential security risks, which hackers are quick to take advantage of. But fear not: companies work hard behind-the-scenes to ensure safety with each release by patching up any weaknesses in their code before they reach our devices!
Organizations often lack the focus and resources to protect their networks from cyber threats, leaving a staggering 93% of corporate systems vulnerable. Without proper security measures in place, companies are at risk for costly data breaches due to neglected vulnerabilities that can be easily exploited by hackers.
Although a shocking 61% of security vulnerabilities have been around for more than 5 years
By exploiting unaddressed flaws in code, cybercriminals can unleash a range of malicious assaults. Such tactics include ransomware and account hijacks – two major forms of online malfeasance that cause untold disruption to computer systems around the world
Behind the scenes of many data breaches is a network vulnerability, just waiting to be exploited. To leverage these security loopholes and gain illegal access, hackers craft malicious code that enables them to carry out nefarious activities – like escalating privileges or executing dangerous system commands.
Establishing a risk-reducing vulnerability management process doesn’t need to be complex. Follow the few simple steps we’ve outlined and you’ll soon have an up-and-running system safeguarding your data!
Keeping up with the ever-evolving cyber threat landscape can be daunting
Step 1. Uncover your hidden strengths and talents!
To protect your network, you’ll need to take a comprehensive inventory of each device and piece of software that connects with it. It’s important not to miss any essential elements; make sure everything from smartphones and laptops up through servers is accounted for in the assessment process!
- Computers
- Smartphones
- Tablets
- IoT devices
- Servers
- Cloud services
With vulnerabilities lurking in the code of operating systems, cloud platforms, software and firmware alike, a full inventory is essential to ensure your network remains secure – nobody wants their system as vulnerable as an open door!
Taking the initial step to create an assessment plan is vital. With proper forethought, you can ensure that all areas are covered in your evaluation!
Step 2: Perform a Vulnerability Assessment
An IT professional will conduct a vulnerability assessment and possibly even penetration testing to ensure the security of our systems. This process is vital in keeping us safe from cyber attacks!
During an in-depth evaluation, the expert will review your systems and utilize special assessment tools to uncover any potential security flaws. By matching software versions against vulnerability databases, they can detect known weak points before hackers have a chance to take advantage.
In a nutshell, if hackers know of an existing security vulnerability in the version of software you are using, your database will alert you to this weakness and put it on your radar. Pro-tip: having up-to-date knowledge on these known vulnerabilities is essential for maintaining secure systems!
Step 3: Protect your organization from the greatest threats by assigning risk levels to each vulnerability
Our network assessment report is the blueprint for eliminating potential threats. While there may be multiple vulnerabilities, some are more pressing than others – it’s important to prioritize which ones we tackle first!
Security specialists recognize the importance of giving special attention to potentially critical vulnerabilities. That’s why many use the Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) – a handy tool that categorizes threats by severity, from low-risk all the way up to game over!
When addressing vulnerabilities, prioritize based on your company’s specific needs. Is the software used casually in one spot or by all employees? Treating each scenario differently can be key to crafting an effective security strategy that best suits your organization.
Step 4: Remediate Vulnerabilities
Secure your system! Make sure to tackle the weakest links first and take action with updating or replacing outdated hardware that can’t be patched. By remedying vulnerabilities in order of priority, you’ll save yourself time – and some headaches down the road.
To protect against cyber threats, companies may opt for a form of “ringfencing”. This innovative method involves virtually enclosing an application or device with a barrier to prevent exposure if no immediate patch is available in the event that vulnerabilities are detected.
To protect your network against increasingly sophisticated threats, increasing advanced threat protection settings is a must. After addressing any existing vulnerabilities, it’s important to make sure that the solutions have been properly implemented – confirming these fixes should be priority one.
Step 5: Protecting our data is an essential task
Properly documenting the vulnerability assessment and management process is essential for maintaining a secure environment that complies with regulations. Without it, cyber threats can easily slip through unnoticed while businesses face penalties from not being up to code.
Thorough documentation of your vulnerability assessments is key! Not only will this be imperative in the unfortunate case of a breach, but it can also serve as an invaluable resource when conducting subsequent exams. Make sure to log all necessary steps taken during remediation – keeping these records could mean the difference between protection and disaster down the line.
Step 6. Keep your system secure
Vulnerability management is an unending journey, not a one-time destination. A comprehensive assessment and mitigation are just the first steps in making sure your systems remain secure over time.
An unprecedented number of security vulnerabilities were identified in 2022 – a staggering 22,500! With new software updates released regularly by developers, it is critical for businesses to remain vigilant and ensure their networks are protected from the latest threats.
Protect your network by implementing a cycle of continuous assessment, prioritization, mitigation and documentation! Regular vulnerability assessments are the key to fortifying yourself against cybercrime – minimizing opportunities for hackers.
Ready to ensure your data is secure?
Is your network prepared to withstand an attack? With our vulnerability assessments, you can be sure that it is. Don’t wait – take the first step towards a safer and more secure future today by giving us a call!
