The digital revolution has entirely transformed our lifestyles and landscapes; from the daily scrolling of social media to the loyalty cards that exchange data for deals, our information is captured and catalogued in an abundance of ways.
But this increase in data collection and processing goes hand-in-hand with the more sinister practice of data theft. A recent report by Cybersecurity Ventures estimates that a global cyberattack will occur every 11 seconds in 2023, highlighting the urgency of robust data protection measures.
While malicious actors undoubtedly pose a significant threat, a surprising statistic emerges: 22% of data breaches stem from human error. This underscores the critical role of employee awareness and training in safeguarding sensitive information.
Types of cybersecurity threats typically include:
Phishing
Is the practice of sending fraudulent emails that resemble emails from reputable sources. The aim is to steal sensitive data like credit card numbers and login information. It’s the most common type of cyber-attack.
Ransomware
Is a type of malicious software. It is designed to extort money by blocking access to files or the computer system until the ransom is paid. Paying the ransom does not guarantee that the files will be recovered or the system restored, however.
Malware
Is a type of software designed to gain unauthorised access or to cause damage to a computer. It can steal data, disrupt operations, and even cause permanent damage.
Social engineering
Is a tactic that adversaries use to trick you into revealing sensitive information. They can solicit a monetary payment or gain access to your confidential data. Social engineering can be combined with any of the threats listed above to make you more likely to click on links, download malware, or trust a malicious source.
Building Trust With ISO27001
Data security goes beyond just technological realms; it necessitates the need for greater awareness and responsibility from everyone; those that hand out data, as well as those that collect, process and store it. And this is where standards like ISO27001 play a pivotal role.
ISO27001 is, essentially, a blueprint for data protection. It outlines best practices for everything from employee training and access controls to incident response protocols and risk management. By implementing this comprehensive framework, businesses can create robust defences against data breaches and cultivate a culture of data security.
But while more business embrace this standard, there is still a way to go. We should all accept responsibility for managing and protecting our digital lives, and Data Privacy Day serves as the perfect opportunity to remind us of that.
At Grosvenor Technology, we prioritise the security of data above all else, and we encourage you to do the same.