The Cybersecurity Checklist for IT Director
What can an IT director do to maintain the security of your company while also keeping up with growing threats? According to the Center for
Internet Security, creating a solid security posture should start with straightforward, frequently neglected precautions (CIS).
Create your cybersecurity strategy step-by-step using this checklist.
Asset inventory and management for hardware and software
Having a thorough view of all the devices connected to your network is the first step in reducing the attack surface of your firm. IT teams
should make every effort to track down and manage permitted hardware and the applications that run on it. Immediately removing all
unauthorized and devices running possibly hazardous software from the network is another requirement for IT teams.
- Strong security standards should be set and followed for personal devices as well. Deny access to the network to untrusted devices. Make use of guest networks for visitors.
- Use inventory tools across the company to facilitate current records of the hardware and software that is currently in use.
- Monitor all user access to the company network, keep track of any failed authentication attempts and unauthorized access, and keep an eye out for any strange activity.
- For after-hours situations involving illegal devices, establish an escalation mechanism.
Manage Vulnerabilities Continuously
The IT team needs 24/7 real-time cybersecurity operations that can monitor vulnerabilities, watch for and identify threats, and act quickly in the case of malicious or risky behavior.
Set priorities so that the vulnerabilities and intrusions that pose the most danger and hazard are handled first, rather than concentrating on less significant and non-essential tasks.
Be prepared to reply to inquiries regarding how security influences business decisions, including where risk occurs and how risk is reduced.
Limit administrative rights
Administrative credentials are like the front door keys to your company, making them a popular target for fraudsters trying to access your data. Simple, frequently-used passwords and disorganized administrative accounts make it simple for criminals to steal crucial data.
- As part of their cyber hygiene, make sure all employees use password managers, single sign-on, and multi-factor authorization.
- Establish a password policy requiring each employee to use a different, complicated password.
- Make sure your workforce receives regular security training updates and is informed about recognized contemporary dangers, such as phishing attempts. teaching and preparing employees so they can contribute to the solution.
- Assure that all applications developed by third parties that access sensitive or potentially confidential data have administrator access.
Hardware and software settings for servers, workstations, laptops, and mobile devices
Manufacturers usually prioritize user experience and usability over security when developing default configurations. Basic controls, out-of-date protocols, unnecessary software, and open ports are all easily accessible to cybercriminals.
Good configuration must continue once users have access to a device since updates or system patches call for you to check for changes on a frequent basis.
Make sure that the IT team retains a log of past occurrences and incidents, such as configuration changes, unusual patterns of incoming and outgoing traffic, privileged user odd behavior, etc.
- As a result, a complete picture of dangers will emerge.
- Maintain standardized security configurations for all applications and operating systems in use.
- Use a configuration monitoring solution that complies with the Security Content Automation Protocol (SCAP).
Upkeep, observation, and analysis of audit logs
Attacks may go undetected and uninvestigated in the absence of audit records, leaving room for more attacks and untold potential harm. For compliance reasons, the majority of IT teams preserve records. However, attackers are aware that many firms lack the time or resources to frequently analyze logs, giving them a large window of time to access systems and data covertly.
- Activate local logging on all computers and gadgets.
- Make a plan for real-time log data analysis and evaluation.
Additional Advice: Security Is a Process, Not A Project
Maintaining security is not always easy, and your entire organization must be diligent in this regard. This entails building a strong security culture from the start so that everyone who works for your company employs good security procedures anytime they access your network or use a work device. To maintain access control, a safe and secure workplace, and a workplace that invaders can't exploit, they must also be aware of physical security issues and corporate policies.
- Make sure best security procedures are covered by HR policy and onboarding. Setting up a clear firm security policy and regularly conveying security standards are the first steps in doing this.
- The organization's cybersecurity defenses must be scalable as it grows, so determine budgetary requirements and make a plan.
In order to complete each task on this list in the most thorough, safe, and cost-effective manner possible, ACM can collaborate with your IT team. Make an appointment for your free consultation by contacting us at 6295 5962 or email us at info@achievement.com.sg to talk with a cybersecurity expert.
