Cybersecurity risks are now a key issue for companies of all sizes and in all industries. Decision-makers are faced with the challenge of protecting their organisations from digital threats. Clients often report that they feel insecure when it comes to identifying and defending against cyber attacks. Awareness of cybersecurity risks is the first step in developing effective protective measures. The right guidance can provide impetus and support companies along the way.
Why cybersecurity risks should not be underestimated
Cybersecurity risks arise from targeted attacks on IT systems and data. These attacks can lead to data loss, business interruptions or even the loss of business secrets. Many companies underestimate the danger because they believe that only large corporations are affected. However, small and medium-sized companies are also frequently targeted by cyber criminals.
A practical example: A medium-sized company in the mechanical engineering sector received an email that looked like a harmless invoice. An employee opened the attachment and the malware was already in the network. Within a few hours, important production data was encrypted. The result: production downtime and high costs.
Another example: a craft business fell victim to data theft as a result of a phishing attack. The attackers used the stolen access data to infiltrate other systems. The damage was not only financial, but also noticeable in terms of the company's image.
A third example: a start-up in the e-commerce sector was paralysed by a DDoS attack. The website was unavailable for days and sales collapsed. Customers lost confidence in the company.
Recognising and assessing cybersecurity risks
How do cybersecurity risks arise?
Cybersecurity risks arise from technical vulnerabilities, but also from human error. Many attacks start with an email that seems harmless. One click on a link or an attachment can be enough to jeopardise the entire system.
An example: A company in the healthcare sector received an email that looked like an official message. An employee opened the attachment and the network was infected. As a result, patient data was stolen and the company had to pay fines.
Another example: a company in the financial sector fell victim to data theft as a result of a social engineering attack. The attackers pretended to be employees and thus gained access to sensitive information.
A third example: a company in the logistics sector was paralysed by a ransomware attack. The attackers encrypted the data and demanded a ransom. The company had to cease operations until the data was restored.
How can cybersecurity risks be assessed?
Cybersecurity risks are assessed by systematically analysing existing threats and vulnerabilities. This includes technical audits, penetration tests and a review of security measures.
An example: A company in the energy sector carried out regular security audits. Vulnerabilities in the network were discovered and rectified. As a result, the company was better protected against attacks.
Another example: A company in the telecommunications sector carried out penetration tests. Vulnerabilities in the system were discovered and rectified. As a result, the company was better protected against attacks.
A third example: A company in the education sector organised regular employee training sessions. The employees were sensitised to the dangers and knew how to react to suspicious emails. The result: the number of attacks fell significantly.
Minimise and ward off cybersecurity risks
Practical measures to minimise cybersecurity risks
Minimising cybersecurity risks requires a combination of technical and organisational measures. These include the installation of firewalls, the use of antivirus software and regular employee training.
For example, a company in the retail sector installed a firewall and an antivirus programme. The employees received regular training. The result: the number of attacks fell significantly.
Another example: A company in the tourism sector carried out regular security audits. The weak points were eliminated and the security measures were continuously improved. As a result, the company was better protected against attacks.
A third example: A company in the construction sector carried out regular penetration tests. The vulnerabilities were eliminated and the security measures were continuously improved. As a result, the company was better protected against attacks.
Support through transruption coaching
transruptions-Coaching supports companies in the identification and defence of cybersecurity risks. The support is individualised and geared towards the specific needs of the company. Clients often report that they are better prepared for attacks and can react more quickly as a result of the support.
An example: A company in the healthcare sector was supported by transruption coaching. The employees were trained and the security measures were improved. As a result, the company was better protected against attacks.
Another example: A company in the financial sector was supported by transruption coaching. The security measures were improved and the employees were trained. As a result, the company was better protected against attacks.
A third example: A company in the logistics sector was supported by transruption coaching. The security measures were improved and the employees were trained. As a result, the company was better protected against attacks.
BEST PRACTICE at the customer (name hidden due to NDA contract) A medium-sized company in the mechanical engineering sector was paralysed by a ransomware attack. The attackers encrypted the data and demanded a ransom. The company was not prepared for such an attack and had to cease operations. With the help of transruptions coaching, the company was supported in improving its security measures and training its employees. As a result, the company was better protected against attacks and was able to react more quickly.
My analysis
Cybersecurity risks are a real threat to companies of all sizes and in all industries. Identifying and defending against attacks requires a combination of technical and organisational measures. Support from transruptions coaching can provide impetus and help companies on their way. Clients often report that they are better prepared for attacks and can react more quickly as a result of the support. The right support is the key to minimising and averting cybersecurity risks.
Further links from the text above:
Definition of cyber risks - Gabler Wirtschaftslexikon
Cyber security prevention measures - Commerzbank
What cyber risks are there and who is affected? - For founders
Cybersecurity Day: Cybercrime one of the biggest threats - Bavarian State Ministry
What is Cyber Risk Management? - Nexus Group
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