Top 3 Internet Security Myths

Top 3 Internet Security Myths

Top 3 Internet Security MythsThere is quite a bit of misinformation out there around Internet security, and it’s driven by a culture of fear, uncertainty and doubt. Though cyber threats are real and can strike anyone, anytime or anywhere, you can implement solid security by taking a methodical approach and identifying the right tools to meet your needs. A good place to start is by dispelling the more common myths security professionals encounter.

Myth 1: My defenses are already impenetrable.

You could have the newest, flashiest tool, every encryption and protection known to man, and a security policy that reads like “War and Peace,” and you still won’t be 100 percent protected.

The reality is that there is no silver-bullet solution to protect you from everyone; a determined attacker will eventually get in. Accept that fact and focus on detection and real-time mitigation instead of a prevention-only strategy. Develop suitable standards for every use case. This will allow you to loosen or tighten controls as dictated by the business, rather than applying an across-the-board policy.

Myth 2: We spend enough on security.

How do you know that enough is really enough? Gartner data shows that only 5 percent of IT spending goes toward security. That means just 5 percent of one department’s budget is responsible for the ultimate protection of every asset the business has: customer and employee data, intellectual property, revenue sources, B2B interfaces, supply chain, workflow, etc. Anything that you use to do business is a potential target.

Once this scope is understood, the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) can start aligning risk and opportunity. This will give you a good indication on the value of your IT spending and where it should be allotted; the amount will be evident. No two companies will be the same.

Myth 3: We won’t get attacked.

This is more plain stubbornness than a myth. The “it-only-happens-to-other-people” defense won’t really help you when you’re facing an advanced persistent threat. You lock your car doors after you park however unlikely it is that the vehicle will be stolen, so why wouldn’t you do more than the bare minimum to protect your business’ most vital assets?

To take an honest look at your security risks, you must adopt the mindset that you are a potential target in order to develop a no-nonsense statement of risk and build a classification framework to force the business, as a whole, to confront all security requirements.

Any company that does a true analysis will be able to develop policies and deploy defenses that provide the best protection possible. There is no bulletproof solution, but you will have a much greater handle on which threats are most serious for your company, enabling you to set up analytics and monitoring processes to identify breaches quicker.

It isn't about just buying the latest gadget; it’s about adopting a security mindset that furthers the goal to make sales without being a burden on the business.

About the Author

Vann Abernethy is the senior product manager for NSFOCUS, where he is responsible for product planning and program execution for multiple security offerings.

Featured

  • AI to Help Resolve Non-Emergency Calls Across Utah and Decrease 911 Caller Wait Times

    The Utah Communications Authority (UCA), which oversees the state’s next generation 911 technology services, recently announced that public safety answering points (PSAPs) throughout the state plan to implement Motorola Solutions’ Virtual Response technology to automate the receipt and resolution of 10-digit non-emergency line calls in Utah with the help of AI. Read Now

  • Report Reveals Local Governments Face Surge in Ransomware Attacks with Minimal Resources

    KnowBe4, the cybersecurity platform that comprehensively addresses human risk management, recently released new research highlighting the critical cybersecurity challenges facing state, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) governments. The report details how government organizations have become prime targets for cybercriminals while simultaneously facing severe resource constraints. Read Now

  • Video Surveillance Trends to Watch

    With more organizations adding newer capabilities to their surveillance systems, it’s always important to remember the “basics” of system configuration and deployment, as well as the topline benefits of continually emerging technologies like AI and the cloud. Read Now

  • New Report Reveals Top Trends Transforming Access Controller Technology

    Mercury Security, a provider in access control hardware and open platform solutions, has published its Trends in Access Controllers Report, based on a survey of over 450 security professionals across North America and Europe. The findings highlight the controller’s vital role in a physical access control system (PACS), where the device not only enforces access policies but also connects with readers to verify user credentials—ranging from ID badges to biometrics and mobile identities. With 72% of respondents identifying the controller as a critical or important factor in PACS design, the report underscores how the choice of controller platform has become a strategic decision for today’s security leaders. Read Now

  • Overwhelming Majority of CISOs Anticipate Surge in Cyber Attacks Over the Next Three Years

    An overwhelming 98% of chief information security officers (CISOs) expect a surge in cyber attacks over the next three years as organizations face an increasingly complex and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven digital threat landscape. This is according to new research conducted among 300 CISOs, chief information officers (CIOs), and senior IT professionals by CSC1, the leading provider of enterprise-class domain and domain name system (DNS) security. Read Now

New Products

  • Compact IP Video Intercom

    Viking’s X-205 Series of intercoms provide HD IP video and two-way voice communication - all wrapped up in an attractive compact chassis.

  • 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.

  • Mobile Safe Shield

    Mobile Safe Shield

    SafeWood Designs, Inc., a manufacturer of patented bullet resistant products, is excited to announce the launch of the Mobile Safe Shield. The Mobile Safe Shield is a moveable bullet resistant shield that provides protection in the event of an assailant and supplies cover in the event of an active shooter. With a heavy-duty steel frame, quality castor wheels, and bullet resistant core, the Mobile Safe Shield is a perfect addition to any guard station, security desks, courthouses, police stations, schools, office spaces and more. The Mobile Safe Shield is incredibly customizable. Bullet resistant materials are available in UL 752 Levels 1 through 8 and include glass, white board, tack board, veneer, and plastic laminate. Flexibility in bullet resistant materials allows for the Mobile Safe Shield to blend more with current interior décor for a seamless design aesthetic. Optional custom paint colors are also available for the steel frame.