As hackers become smarter while businesses rely more on the cloud and technology to share and store information, we’ve seen an increase in security breaches among businesses across the country. In fact, the Identity Theft Resource Center found that breaches were up 25 percent in 2017.
Many companies are simply not investing enough in IT security, despite the obvious threats. The lack of investment in security infrastructure, professional services, and employee training makes them extremely vulnerable. What’s more unnerving is basic security features like firewalls and antivirus protection aren’t enough in today’s “smart” marketplace.
Where should businesses start if they want to avoid the repercussions of a major data breach? Here are eight tools businesses could consider for staying ahead of the game to protect sensitive data and private information in 2018.
Microsoft EMET
Developed specifically for Windows, the Enhanced Mitigation Experience Toolkit helps keep a software’s vulnerabilities from being exploited by outside hackers. Often employees unaware of proper protocols compromise a business’s security. This toolkit helps prevent these leaks.
ExactTrak
With the increase of sensitive data on the move, it’s important to protect the information stored on laptops, external hard drives and IoT devices. ExactTrak uses embedded security to take data protection beyond basic encryption. Both system and Internet-independent, the technology works to protect information, even when devices aren’t active.
MailControl
Supported on Exchange Online, Office365, G Suite, and Exchange, MailControl works to protect email accounts from Spyware hidden in emails. Spymail can be used to track location, email open rates and browser information through metadata. MailControl works to detect, remove, and report spymail to protect customer’s private information and data.
Comodo
If you’re a small business owner just dipping your toes into cybersecurity and worried about making too large of an initial investment, Comodo is a great place to start. They offer multiple solutions (either free or low cost) that meet the needs of different businesses. Some include malware prevention, IT management platforms, security for POS systems and SSL certificates.
Evident ID
If you operate a business that is responsible for handling other people’s personal data, you know the stress and risk that comes with handling secure data. There is also the added responsibility of organizing and managing this sensitive data. Evident ID serves businesses by taking them from the middle of the process. Businesses are able to verify user and customer information with minimum disclosure, and minimize their security risks.
CryptoStopper
A recent cybersecurity concern for many businesses is a hacker’s use of ransomware, a malicious software that holds a computer system “hostage” until the ransom is paid. If Ransomware is a concern, Cryptostopper is a great line of defense. CryptoStopper uses Watcher Files to detect ransomware in real time and stop the software from running.
Lookout Mobile Security
If mobile security is your main concern, Lookout Mobile Security should be on your list. Lookout recognizes there are multiple threats to mobile security, and uses 10 years of research to provide threat remediation and app security assessments.
FCC Small Biz Cyber Planner 2.0
If you’re new to the world of cybersecurity, you may find the layers of security overwhelming. The Federal Communication Commission’s Small Biz Cyber Planner is a great first step for smaller business owners looking to cover all bases for their security, or corporate executives to better understand how their business’ cybersecurity operates.
Filed Under: Cybersecurity, M2M (machine to machine)
