Every business will inevitably fall prey to a data breach at some point. Yes, antivirus programs only protect users from about 25 percent of viruses and malware. (1) This is especially disturbing when considering that between 200,000 to 300,000 viruses are discovered every single day. (1)
That said, virtual private networks (VPNs) offer one potential solution by providing companies with a higher degree of protection and privacy for their data. VPNs route online activity through specialized servers and encrypting data. Using this process, they conceal online activity and protect organizations from cybercriminals.
Every solution has its vulnerabilities, which means that not even a VPN can guarantee complete security. Fortunately, together with the VPN and specific measures, businesses can safeguard against most of the risks.
Appoint Dedicated Cybersecurity Specialists
Whether they are in-house or a third-party consultant, every organization should hire at least one cybersecurity specialist. Doing so achieves several purposes.
First, an appropriately qualified specialist will possess the knowledge and experience to help prevent cybersecurity threats from materializing in the first place. They are well versed in effective strategies for combating the most skilled cybercriminals and most advanced malware. They can advise leadership on the best investments to make in the cyberhealth of their organization.
Second, the person in this role can help mitigate the damage if a data breach does occur. They know how to identify it fast and what steps to take. Ultimately, security specialists prove themselves highly valuable to minimize the fallout of cybercriminals’ nefarious activities.
Build a Strong Firewall…
Employees may grumble about a firewall’s limitations, but the value of a strong one cannot be underestimated. Firewalls are a powerful barrier that shields organizations from malicious software and unauthorized connections.
By monitoring all incoming and outgoing network traffic, firewalls act as the ultimate security guard for company data. They base their decisions on the programs and devices that attempt to gain access to pre-defined rules set by the business.
The caveat? Firewalls must be regularly updated and maintained to prove an effective form of protection.
…And Beef up Private Networks for Remote Work
A firewall will not work on unsecured Wi-Fi networks employees use when working remotely. Unauthorized users can quickly gain access to these unsecured networks and wreak havoc on a business.
This is one reason why investing in a VPN is so important. It affords organizations the ability to establish a connection to a secure server that hosts their data. The end-to-end encryption safeguards company data regardless of where the employee is located while working and allows them to access the data they need from anywhere in the world.
VPNs serve the imperative dual purpose of giving employees accessibility while improving data security.
The digital landscape is rife with cybersecurity landmines. Navigating these dangers can prove tricky for businesses. By applying the strategies outlined above, organizations will erect a solid fortress against the most skilled cybercriminals.
Uncertain times call for creative thinking. Contact Gavel International to be inspired with solutions that connect and engage your people.
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SOURCES:
1 https://www.computerworld.com/article/2472120/how-useful-is-antivirus-software-.html
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