Is your business’s cyber security up to snuff? If you aren’t sure, the answer is probably no.
Cyber security is a term that includes the technology, processes, and practices that protect your data. This can consist of securing computers, programs, and networks.
So what are you doing to keep your data safe? Even if your company has a security protocol in place, it might not be as secure as you think.
And, the only way to know for sure is with a cyber security audit. This assessment will help you locate weaknesses in your security protocol, and protect against cyber-attacks and data breaches.
If that sounds stressful, don’t worry. In this article, we’ll cover all the basics so you can plan and conduct your audit with confidence. Keep reading to learn more!
What Is a Cyber Security Audit?
During an audit, a team of IT specialists will analyze your company’s behavioral and technical risks.
Behavioral risks include things like employees not following security guidelines or practicing poor cyber behavior. And, because the impact of human behavior on company security is often hard to spot, an outside assessment is absolutely the best way to tackle this big issue.
Once you know which specific behaviors or employees are creating risk in your organization, you can create a plan to improve. You may also want to provide your team with cyber security training. This further education raises awareness and accountability among employees.
Technical risks focus on physical cybersecurity systems like firewalls, ransomware and malware protection, spam filtering, and more. But, if you aren’t an IT specialist, this type of audit is probably outside your comfort zone.
Making yourself aware of the technical risks your business faces can help you choose new security systems and implement technology to help keep your data safe.
Keep in mind that technical risks aren’t just about data theft. Equipment failure and power outages can also put your stored information in danger.
So, conducting a security audit is also an essential step toward developing a disaster recovery plan. This might include implementing strategies like on-site backup and cloud-based data storage.
Does Your Business Need One?
The easy answer is, yes!
As the old saying goes, “you don’t know what you don’t know.” And, a cyber security audit is the best way to learn what you might otherwise be unaware of.
While it might seem like a considerable expense, cyber security auditing can save your business a ton of money in the end. Data loss due to theft or disaster can lead to major spending!
Plus, hiring a team of experts for your IT security audit may shed light on other problems you didn’t even know existed! This extra precaution can help you reduce security risks before they become breaches in your company’s data protection plan.
Get Started With Cyber Security
Now that you know a bit about conducting a cyber security audit, you’re probably feeling eager to get the process started.
Before you schedule an audit, put together a list of questions for the IT specialists you plan to work with. This extra step will help you feel informed and support their role as outside experts.
Don’t forget; it’s essential that you are as honest and informed as possible when it comes to your security assessment. Clearly communicating your business needs and security concerns will help you make the most of an audit.
And, when in doubt, contact us.
A quick IT consultation can help you focus on your business objectives and technical challenges. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to ask your web security questions and receive expert recommendations for managing and improving your existing security measures.
