How Can the Public Sector Tackle the Rise in Cyberattacks?

How Can the Public Sector Tackle the Rise in Cyberattacks?

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In the wake of an increasing number of cyber security breaches and data thefts, it is clear that the public sector has become a target for hackers. The recent examples of hacker intrusions into local councils, NHS bodies, and the Army’s social media accounts show that this problem is now commonplace. What was once thought of as an inherent risk that comes with working in the digital age is now a harsh reality for all levels of government. As more personal information is stored digitally, the potential for cyber threats also increases. Therefore, in light of these circumstances, those working in the public sector must implement appropriate cybersecurity measures to combat potential threats and breaches. Following these top tips can help your organisation remain secure against cyberattacks. 

Don’t rely on just one form of security 

When it comes to cyber security, it is best to have layered security procedures so that if one collapses, the others can pick up the slack. This way, you have a better chance of stopping a breach before it happens. You need to weigh the costs of each security method against the costs of the potential data breach. Making sure you spend your money effectively and efficiently will help you get the best value for your budget. 101 Data Solutions can help you find the best options. 

Establish a culture of security awareness 

Everyone in the organisation must be security-aware to respond quickly to potential threats. This is especially true in the case of a data breach when immediate action is crucial. However, how efficiently your organisation can respond to a breach largely depends on how prepared its employees are to deal with it. Establishing a culture of security awareness will help employees be prepared to react swiftly and appropriately to security incidents. 

They will also know how to report issues, so they don’t become part of the problem. Security awareness is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of a data breach and is, therefore, an essential part of any security strategy. With awareness training, employees can learn how to identify potential threats, mitigate them, and report them if they can’t be prevented.  

The types of attacks include malicious software, such as viruses, ransomware, or other malicious code that can be used to steal data or cause harm to your systems. As well as social engineering where unsuspecting employees can be tricked into clicking on malicious links or handing over sensitive information. Hackers are also able to identify the soft targets, e.g., those people that aren’t tech savvy or find it difficult to discern between trustworthy and malicious websites and content. 

Assume that all systems are compromised 

Hackers who break into your network could leave behind malicious software designed to steal information. Unfortunately, this software could remain undetected for months or even years. As a result, it is important to assume that every system has been compromised and has malicious software on it. To protect against this, you should regularly scan your systems for malicious software. This will allow you to identify any threats and remove them before they can do any harm.  

Use strong authentication 

Any system that handles sensitive information should use strong authentication, such as a password manager or two-factor authentication. This will help prevent hackers from accessing your systems and stealing sensitive information. For example, a password manager will generate unique passwords for each system, making it more difficult for hackers to break into your accounts. Password managers can also let you auto-fill forms, making it easier to log into your accounts. Similarly, two-factor authentication requires you to enter a login code in addition to your password. This makes it more difficult for hackers to gain access to your accounts. Strong authentication is an essential part of any security strategy.  

Backup your data 

Everyone knows that backing up your data is important. The question is – do you have a reliable backup strategy in place? If not, you risk losing everything if anything goes wrong with your computers or devices. 101 Data Solutions can show you what types of backups are available and what third-party cloud backup services would be best suited to your needs. 

Use detection tools to find breaches and intrusions 

Another way to protect against cyber threats is to use detection tools. These tools can help you find potential threats and intrusions before they become a problem. This will allow you to respond faster if a threat is detected, potentially preventing a breach before it happens.  

Be proactive in installing software updates 

One of the best ways to protect your devices against threats is by regularly installing software updates. Vendors often release updates that include patches for bugs and patches for vulnerabilities. This allows them to fix errors in their software and patch critical security holes.  

Encrypt sensitive data automatically 

Another way to protect against threats is to encrypt sensitive data. This can help prevent hackers from accessing data if they breach your system. It will also help you comply with regulations, such as GDPR. These regulations require sensitive data to be encrypted. However, you can take this further by automatically encrypting sensitive data. This will help you maintain compliance even if your systems are compromised. In addition, this can help you mitigate the damage if your systems are breached. This can be done by setting up an automated process that encrypts sensitive data at specific times or regularly. Again, this will help prevent hackers from accessing sensitive data, even if they breach your systems. 

Establish cyber defence strategies right away 

This includes monitoring networks and devices and having a response plan in case of a breach. Ensuring that your systems and devices are monitored will help you quickly identify threats and take action to protect against them. It will also help you identify the source of attacks, making it easier to take appropriate action. In addition, defence strategies should be established as soon as possible to protect against threats and breaches. This will help you stay safe and secure while allowing you to function normally.  

Review network access and service providers 

You should review your network access and service providers to identify areas of weakness, especially security issues. Here at 101 Data Solutions, we have access to a wide range of the best data solutions providers, and we can offer advice to help you select providers that will protect your data. We can also review your existing network and service provider contracts. This will help you ensure you receive the best service and get the most out of your investment in your IT infrastructure and data solutions. My team are here to help, just book a call

About Brett Edgecombe, Managing Director, 101 Data Solutions   

Even as a child living in Canada, Brett always had an interest in technology, so starting his career within the technology industry was a natural progression in 1998 when it began at the UK’s first ISP, Compuserve Interactive Services in Bristol.   

He has first-hand experience in modern Enterprise Storage Infrastructure solutions, having worked at Sun Microsystems in 2000, where he worked with large commercial and education customers across the UK.   

Brett created 101 Data Solutions in 2008 with a focus on Data Storage centric delivered through high-quality technology solutions direct to businesses throughout the UK. His strategic vision and sector knowledge allows him to bring excellence to 101’s customers through experience, technical foresight and relationship building.  

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