Five Biggest Security Myths Busted

Five Biggest Security Myths Busted

There are a number of common misconceptions about endpoint security.

The rise of the modern collaborative digital workplace means an increasing number of wireless, mobile and BYOD users on company networks. That’s why endpoint security has become an important strategy for protecting business data assets, but there are a number of common misconceptions about it. 

Here are the five biggest security myths:

1. “We’ve got antivirus so we’re good”

Don’t think just because you have an antivirus product installed on all your devices that you’re protected against malware of every kind. If the antivirus protection isn’t regularly updated, or you don’t do regular security scans, the latest iteration of malware can sneak in without you knowing. Same with periodic OS updates from each device’s manufacturer: you need to do them, but they can’t protect you against everything. Cybercriminal methods quickly have become so sophisticated that a dense patchwork of antivirus, anti-spyware, firewalls and intrusion detection won’t even slow them down.

2. “Endpoint security slows down workflow”

You may have heard that rigorous endpoint security protection tools get in the way of work because they slow down apps or interrupt people from doing their jobs. This myth probably arose due to the effect of bad implementations of security tools rather than any fault of the tools themselves. The best endpoint security tools are specifically designed to provide the necessary level of security without affecting the workflow or user productivity.

3. “Some protection is better than none”

If you were concerned about a burglary, you wouldn’t lock your front door but fail to arm your home security system. We all know that layers of protection are more effective. A layered approach to endpoint security is also the best one, and ideally includes a number of different elements, like network perimeter security, strong user authorization policies, end-user education, data access monitoring and disaster recovery protocols.

4. “All our endpoints are covered”

Even if you diligently apply security patches and put up a good defense-in-depth, don’t assume you’ve got security covered. No company is ever hackproof. Hackers work hard to find new ways to exploit software or human nature to get into an endpoint. And too many companies are not prepared for the consequences of a data breach. You should always assume a data breach will occur, and continuously monitor and strengthen your security posture.

5. “We’re too small of a target”

Huge corporations and big-name businesses that get hacked make the news most often, and so it can seem like only big companies are being targeted. Wrong. Cybercriminals actually seek out small businesses with ties to larger ones—in hopes of getting access to the larger companies. For example, in 2013, hackers breached a small HVAC service company and gained access to all the credit card data in a major retailer’s point-of-sale system.

About the Author

Jerry Young is the Principal Solution Architect at MNJ Technologies.

Featured

  • Accelerating a Pathway

    There is a new trend touting the transformational qualities of AI’s ability to deliver actionable data and predictive analysis that in many instances, seems to be a bit of an overpromise. The reality is that very few solutions in the cyber-physical security (CPS) space live up to this high expectation with the one exception being the new generation of Physical Identity and Access Management (PIAM) software – herein recategorized as PIAM+. Read Now

  • Protecting Your Zones

    It is game day. You can feel the crowd’s energy. In the parking lot. At the gate. In the stadium. On the concourse. Fans are eager to party. Food and merchandise vendors ready themselves for the rush. Read Now

  • Street Smarts

    The ongoing acceptance of AI and advanced data analytics has allowed surveillance camera technology to shift from being a tactical tool to a strategic business solution. Combining traditional surveillance technology with AI-based data-driven insights can streamline transportation systems, enhance traffic management, improve situational awareness, optimize resource allocation and streamline emergency response procedures. Read Now

  • The Progress of Biometrics

  • Next-Gen AI for Smart Cities

    The future of smart city technology is not being shaped in Silicon Valley — it is taking root in Dubuque, Iowa. With a population of about 60,000, this mid-sized city has become a live testbed for AI-driven traffic management thanks to a unique public-private collaboration led by Milestone Systems. Project Hafnia demonstrates how cities can transform urban mobility and safety through Responsible Technology—without costly infrastructure overhauls. Read Now

New Products

  • A8V MIND

    A8V MIND

    Hexagon’s Geosystems presents a portable version of its Accur8vision detection system. A rugged all-in-one solution, the A8V MIND (Mobile Intrusion Detection) is designed to provide flexible protection of critical outdoor infrastructure and objects. Hexagon’s Accur8vision is a volumetric detection system that employs LiDAR technology to safeguard entire areas. Whenever it detects movement in a specified zone, it automatically differentiates a threat from a nonthreat, and immediately notifies security staff if necessary. Person detection is carried out within a radius of 80 meters from this device. Connected remotely via a portable computer device, it enables remote surveillance and does not depend on security staff patrolling the area.

  • Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems, an industry-leading manufacturer of pedestrian and vehicle secure entrance control access systems, is pleased to announce the release of its groundbreaking V07 software. The V07 software update is designed specifically to address cybersecurity concerns and will ensure the integrity and confidentiality of Automatic Systems applications. With the new V07 software, updates will be delivered by means of an encrypted file.

  • PE80 Series

    PE80 Series by SARGENT / ED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin

    ASSA ABLOY, a global leader in access solutions, has announced the launch of two next generation exit devices from long-standing leaders in the premium exit device market: the PE80 Series by SARGENT and the PED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin. These new exit devices boast industry-first features that are specifically designed to provide enhanced safety, security and convenience, setting new standards for exit solutions. The SARGENT PE80 and Corbin Russwin PED4000/PED5000 Series exit devices are engineered to meet the ever-evolving needs of modern buildings. Featuring the high strength, security and durability that ASSA ABLOY is known for, the new exit devices deliver several innovative, industry-first features in addition to elegant design finishes for every opening.