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Cyber Security

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Cyber Security

All you need to know..

With the rise in cyber-crime security has never been more important and it is vital that organisations have policies and procedures in place for protecting sensitive data. Steel City Consulting believe that prevention is better than the cure and our team proactively look to mitigate cyber-crime by assessing the chances of issues occurring and identifying improvements.

We use a multi-layered approach to our security and our comprehensive portfolio of best-of-breed technologies help to eliminate any business risk. Our proactive reporting and monitoring means that we can detect and resolve issues before they start to impact on you operationally. If a security breach has happened to your organisation our friendly and knowledgeable staff can help from the moment we are first informed, and we will constantly keep you updated of what we are doing to solve the problem and what the next steps are.

ENDPOINT SECURITY

All you need to know..

Endpoints can represent a tantalising entry into a company’s network for would be cyber attackers. They pose a real challenge for organisations looking to secure their network, with multiple devices per employee due to remote working and BYOD policies providing a large and diverse attack surface. Having complete visibility and control over the security of endpoints is critical to detect, analyze and block cyber-attacks. To do this endpoints must collaborate with each other and with other security technologies to give administrators visibility into advanced threats and remediation response times. Steel City Consulting provide a suite of products to try and protect a companies endpoint, these include SentinelOne, Bitdefender, Sophos and Mimecast.

OUR ENDPOINT SECURITy PARTNERS

SentinelOne encompasses an AI-powered endpoint security solution that provides prevention, detection, and hunting across all endpoints. The SentinelOne Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) is agent-based threat detection that protects against the widest array of known and unknown threats using AI algorithms. SentinelOne’s IoT discovery and control platform equips every device to respond intelligently to protect against cyber threats mapping and enforcing the IoT footprint.

Bitdefender Endpoint Security Tools are a fully-automated security program that protects against all kinds of malware attacks. Bitdefenders endpoint security suite empahsizes protecting anti-ransomware attacks and anti-exploit technology. Recently released products include GravityZone Ultra Suite that combines the worlds most effective Protection with eXtended Endpoint Detection and Response (XEDR) capabilites that detect and prevent threats that traditional endpoints AV mis. 

Sophos Endpoint Protection makes it simple to secure your systems against malware and other endpoint threats by using proven technology such as malicious traffic detection and real-time threat intelligence. Sophos MTR is a 24/7 fully managed threat response backed by an elite team of threat hunters coupled with a simple and intuitive user web interface. Sophos regularly blocks more malware than competing solutions which is why it is consistently rated the #1 endpoint protection.

NETWORK SECURITY

All you need to know..

Network security is employed to prevent unauthorised access onto your network and is the first line of your defence. Network security stops ‘bad actors’ from entering your network and spreading by putting up a barrier between your internal network and untrusted outside networks. Steel City Consulting offer a combination of policies and solutions that secure and protect your assets. We partner with several vendors such as Fortinet, Palo Alto and Cisco and deploy, commission and manage unified threat management (UTM) devices and threat-focused next-generation firewalls.

Our Preferred Firewall Vendors

email security

All you need to know..

Email is a common entry point for attackers looking to gain a foothold in a network and obtain company data. Attacks can come in many forms which include using deceptive messages to entice recipients to part with sensitive data, open attachments or click on hyperlinks to install malware. Organisations need to have a cyber resilience for email strategy that is easy to manage, lowers costs, and is effective in preventing attacks. Steel City Consulting work with vendors who offer email gateway scans and provide a multi-layered approach to block all attacks. Our email security partners include Barracuda, Mimecast and Proofpoint.

our email security vendors

Barracuda combines gateway defense with AI-enabled inbox protection to protect against all 13 email threat types. Barracuda uses global threat intelligence and AI to stop email threats by using threat data collected from over 200,000 companies worldwide. Its AI engine can analyse communication behaviour to detect and stop impersonation attacks in real time; while built-in Advanced Threat Protection uses payload analysis and sandboxing to discover zero-day malware.

Mimecast’s Secure Email Gateway provides 100% anti-malware protection and 99% anti-spam protection with granular policies that are easy to deploy and manage. Cloud-based email protection software offers a multi-layered threat detection and intelligence with state-of-the-art machine learning. Mimecast’s unified Targeted Threat Protection defends against all forms of email compromise blocking malicious URLs and scanning all emails for fraud and social engineering.

Proofpoint is a leading cybersecurity company working with more than half of the Fortune 1000. Proofpoint utilize signature-based detection to protect against known threats and employ dynamic reputation analysis to IP’s which filter which emails to accept and to reject. As part of their advanced threat protection, Proofpoint offer Targeted Attack Protection, which works to detect and block threats before they ever reach an inbox eliminating the possibility of the receiver clicking the URL.


OUR FAQ's FOR CYBER SECURITY

Cyber security is the practice of protecting devices, networks, and data from digital attacks, theft, and damage. It involves the use of technologies, processes, and policies to secure systems and prevent unauthorized access or attacks.

Cybersecurity is important because it helps to protect individuals, organizations, and society from the negative consequences of cyber attacks and data breaches. These attacks can cause harm in many ways, including financial loss, damage to reputation, loss of sensitive information, and even physical harm.

The damage that cyber crime can do to a business can vary widely depending on the type of attack and the specific circumstances of the business. However, the consequences of a cyber attack can be severe and can include:

  • Financial loss: Cyber attacks can result in direct financial losses, such as the cost of recovering from the attack or paying a ransom to restore access to data. They can also lead to indirect financial losses, such as lost revenue due to disruption of business operations or damage to a company’s reputation.
  • Damage to reputation: A cyber attack can damage a company’s reputation, leading to a loss of trust and credibility with customers, partners, and stakeholders. This can have long-term consequences for the business.
  • Loss of sensitive information: Cyber attacks can result in the theft or loss of sensitive information, such as customer data, intellectual property, or financial information. This can have serious consequences for the business and its customers.
  • Legal and regulatory consequences: Depending on the nature of the attack and the data that is compromised, a business may face legal and regulatory consequences, such as fines and penalties.

 

Overall, the damage that a cyber attack can do to a business can be significant and far-reaching. It is important for businesses to take steps to protect themselves from cyber attacks and to have a plan in place to respond if an attack does occur.

There are several ways that a company can protect itself from a cyber attack, these include:

  • Using strong and unique passwords: Implementing strong and unique passwords for all accounts and regularly changing them can help to prevent unauthorized access.
  • Enable two-factor authentication: Adding an extra layer of security, such as requiring a code sent to a mobile phone or using a security key can make it more difficult for attackers to gain access to accounts.
  • Keep software and devices up to date: Ensuring that all software and devices are kept up to date with the latest security patches and updates can help to prevent vulnerabilities from being exploited.
  • Use a firewall and antivirus software: A firewall can help to prevent unauthorized access to a network, while antivirus software can detect and remove malware.
  • Train employees on cybersecurity best practices: Educating employees on how to identify and prevent cyber attacks, such as phishing attempts and suspicious emails can help to reduce the risk of a successful attack.
  • Regularly backing up data: Regularly backing up important data and storing it in a secure location can help to minimize the impact of a successful cyber attack.
  • Implement security protocols: Establishing clear security protocols and policies, such as access control measures and incident response plans can help to prevent and mitigate the effects of cyber attacks.
  • Use a managed security service provider: Partnering with a managed security service provider can provide expert guidance and support in protecting against cyber attacks.

 

By implementing these measures companies can significantly reduce their risk of a successful cyber attack and protect their sensitive data and systems. For more information one of our staff will be able to discuss your options and help to implement a cyber security policy which will prevent the risk of a cyber attack.

If you suspect that you have been the victim of a cyber attack, it is important to take the following steps as soon as possible:

  • Disconnect your device from the internet: Disconnecting your device from the internet can help to prevent the attacker from gaining further access or spreading malware.
  • Run a virus scan: Use antivirus software to scan your device for malware and remove any threats that are detected.
  • Change all of your passwords: Change the passwords for all of your accounts, including email, social media, and any other accounts that may have been compromised.
  • Contact your IT department or cybersecurity provider: If your business has an IT department or cybersecurity provider, notify them immediately. They can provide further assistance and guidance on how to respond to the attack.
  • Report the attack: Consider reporting the attack to the relevant authorities, such as the police. This can help to track down the attackers and prevent future attacks.
  • Review your security measures: Take the time to review your security measures and identify any weaknesses that may have allowed the attack to occur. Consider implementing additional security measures to prevent future attacks.

When deciding who to work with for managing cyber security, there are several factors to consider:

  • Expertise and experience: Look for a team or provider with a proven track record of success in cybersecurity. This may include certifications, industry recognition, and case studies demonstrating their effectiveness.
  • Range of services: Consider the types of services the provider offers. Do they offer the full range of cyber security services you need, including risk assessments, security testing, incident response, and ongoing support?
  • Customization: Look for a provider that can tailor their services to your specific needs and goals. Every organization has different risks and priorities, and a one-size-fits-all approach may not be effective.
  • Responsiveness: Choose a provider that is responsive to your needs and concerns. This may include 24/7 support, quick turnaround times, and regular communication.
  • Affordability: Consider the cost of the provider’s services and whether they offer value for money. While cybersecurity is a critical concern, it is also important to ensure that you are getting the best value for your investment.
  • Reputation: Research the provider’s reputation in the industry and seek references from other clients. A good reputation is often a sign of a reliable and trustworthy provider.

 

By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision about which provider is the best fit for your organization’s needs.

Cyber Essentials is a government-backed cybersecurity certification program in the United Kingdom that is designed to help organizations protect themselves from common cyber threats. It consists of a set of basic controls that organizations can implement to protect themselves from cyber attacks and data breaches.

If your business handles sensitive data or is subject to regulations that require cybersecurity measures, such as the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) or the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), Cyber Essentials certification may be necessary. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to seek Cyber Essentials certification will depend on your specific business needs and risk profile. It may be worth discussing with a cybersecurity professional or reviewing your organization’s regulatory and compliance requirements to determine whether certification is necessary.

In general, however, even if certification is not required, implementing the basic controls outlined in the Cyber Essentials program can help to protect your organization from common cyber threats and reduce the risk of a successful attack.

Phishing is a type of cyber attack that involves the use of fraudulent emails, websites, or texts to trick people into revealing sensitive information or installing malware.

Phishing attacks often involve the use of fake emails or websites that are designed to appear legitimate, but are actually designed to steal personal information or install malware on the victim’s device. The emails or websites may contain links that, when clicked, install malware or redirect the victim to a fake login page where they are prompted to enter sensitive information, such as passwords or credit card numbers.

Phishing attacks can be difficult to detect, as the attackers often use tactics such as spoofing the sender’s address or using official-looking logos and branding. They may also use social engineering techniques, such as creating a sense of urgency or using fear or greed to manipulate the victim.

To protect against phishing attacks, it is important to be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments in emails, especially from unknown sources, and to verify the authenticity of websites before entering sensitive information. Using email filters and spam blockers, as well as educating employees on how to recognize phishing attempts, can also help to reduce the risk of a successful attack.

Training your staff to recognize and avoid phishing attacks can be an important part of your organization’s cybersecurity strategy. Here are some best practices for training your staff to spot phishing:

  • Educate staff on the different types of phishing: There are many different types of phishing attacks, including email phishing, phone phishing, and social media phishing. Educate your staff on the different types of phishing and the tactics that attackers may use.
  • Emphasize the importance of caution: Encourage your staff to be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments, especially from unknown sources. Remind them that attackers often use urgency or fear to manipulate victims and that it is important to verify the authenticity of emails or websites before taking any action.
  • Encourage the use of email filters and spam blockers: Use email filters and spam blockers to help identify and block phishing emails. Encourage your staff to report any suspicious emails to the IT department or cybersecurity team.
  • Provide examples of phishing emails: Show your staff examples of phishing emails and ask them to identify the tactics that attackers may have used. Use this as an opportunity to discuss the signs of a phishing attack and how to avoid falling victim to one.
  • Encourage reporting: Encourage your staff to report any suspicious emails or websites to the IT department or cybersecurity team. By making it easy for staff to report potential threats, you can help to protect your organization from successful phishing attacks.

Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts a victim’s files and demands a ransom for their restoration. Ransomware attacks can be devastating, as they can lock users out of their own data and systems until the ransom is paid.

Ransomware can be spread through a variety of methods, including email attachments, links in emails or on websites, and through infected software or devices. Once a device or system is infected with ransomware, the attackers will typically demand payment in exchange for a decryption key or software that will restore access to the victim’s data.

To protect against ransomware attacks, it is important to follow best practices such as:

  • Keep software and devices up to date: Ensuring that all software and devices are kept up to date with the latest security patches and updates can help to prevent vulnerabilities from being exploited.
  • Use a firewall and antivirus software: A firewall can help to prevent unauthorized access to a network, while antivirus software can detect and remove malware.
  • Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments: Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments in emails, especially from unknown sources, and verify the authenticity of websites before entering sensitive information.
  • Regularly back up data: Regularly backing up important data and storing it in a secure location can help to minimize the impact of a successful ransomware attack.

It is generally not recommended to pay a ransom in response to a ransomware attack. Paying the ransom does not guarantee that the attackers will restore access to your data and may encourage them to target other victims in the future.

In addition, paying the ransom does not address the root cause of the attack and does not prevent future attacks from occurring. It is important to implement strong cybersecurity measures to prevent ransomware attacks from happening in the first place.

Penetration testing, also known as “pen testing,” is the practice of simulating a cyber attack on a computer system, network, or web application to test its defenses and identify vulnerabilities. The goal of penetration testing is to identify weaknesses in a system’s security before they can be exploited by attackers.

Penetration testing can be performed by a team of security experts or by an individual with specialized knowledge and tools. The testing process typically involves a combination of automated and manual techniques to identify vulnerabilities and assess the system’s defenses.

Penetration testing can be an important part of an organization’s cybersecurity strategy, as it can help to identify and remediate vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by attackers. It can also help to validate the effectiveness of an organization’s security measures and provide assurance to customers, partners, and stakeholders that the organization is taking steps to protect against cyber threats.

There are several types of penetration testing, including external testing, which simulates an attack from outside the organization’s network, and internal testing, which simulates an attack from within the network.

In general, it is recommended to conduct penetration testing at least annually, or more frequently if your business handles sensitive data or is at a higher risk of cyber attacks. Regular testing can help to identify and remediate vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by attackers.

It is also important to consider the timing of penetration testing. Testing should be conducted at a time when it will not disrupt business operations or cause any negative impact on customers or stakeholders.

In addition to regular testing, it is also recommended to conduct penetration testing after any major changes or updates to your systems or infrastructure. This can help to ensure that the changes have not introduced any new vulnerabilities.

Ultimately, the frequency of penetration testing will depend on the specific needs and risk profile of your business. Steel City Consulting can work with customers who want to undertake penetrative testing to determine the appropriate frequency of testing for your organization.

A firewall is a security system that controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. It can be a hardware device, software program, or a combination of both.

Firewalls are commonly used to protect networks, including those connected to the internet, from unauthorized access and malware infections. They can be configured to allow or block certain types of traffic based on rules that are set by the administrator.

For example, a firewall may be configured to block all incoming traffic except for web traffic to a specific set of approved websites. It may also be configured to allow certain types of outgoing traffic, such as email or file transfers, while blocking other types of traffic, such as peer-to-peer file sharing.

Firewalls can be an important layer of security for businesses and organizations, helping to prevent unauthorized access to networks and protect against cyber attacks and data breaches. In general, if your business has a network that connects to the internet, it is recommended to have a firewall in place to protect against unauthorized access and malware infections. If you do not currently have a firewall in place Steel City Consulting can assess your security needs and determine the best solution for your business.

There are a number of important considerations to take into account when choosing a firewall for your business. These include:

  • Network size and complexity: The size and complexity of your network will affect the type of firewall that is most suitable for your business. Smaller networks may be able to use a hardware-based firewall, while larger or more complex networks may require a software-based firewall or a combination of hardware and software.
  • Security features: Look for a firewall that offers a range of security features, such as intrusion prevention, content filtering, and application control. These features can help to protect against a variety of cyber threats and provide additional layers of security for your network.
  • Scalability: Consider whether the firewall can scale to meet the needs of your business as it grows. A firewall that is not able to scale may become a bottleneck or may not be able to provide sufficient protection as your network expands.
  • Ease of use and management: Choose a firewall that is easy to use and manage, especially if you do not have a dedicated IT staff. Look for a firewall that has a user-friendly interface and offers centralized management and monitoring capabilities.
  • Cost: Consider the cost of the firewall and whether it is within your budget. Keep in mind that a more expensive firewall may offer additional features and capabilities that may be worth the investment, depending on your needs.

 

Steel City Consulting can advise you on the best firewall for your business ensuring that it is not only fit for purpose and will protect your business but that you are getting value for money and you are not spending more than is necessary.

Cyber insurance is a type of insurance that protects businesses against financial losses resulting from cyber attacks, data breaches, and other digital threats. It is designed to provide coverage for a variety of risks, including the cost of restoring lost or damaged data, legal fees and settlements, and public relations efforts to repair damage to a company’s reputation.

Cyber insurance can provide an important layer of protection for businesses that handle sensitive data or are at a higher risk of cyber attacks, such as those in the financial, healthcare, or retail sectors. It can also provide peace of mind and help to mitigate the financial impact of a successful cyber attack.

Cyber insurance policies can vary in terms of the types of coverage and limits that they offer. It is important to carefully review the terms and conditions of a cyber insurance policy to understand what is covered and what is excluded. It is also important to follow best practices for cybersecurity to reduce the risk of a successful cyber attack and to minimize the potential financial impact.

While it is not guaranteed that a cyber insurance policy will always pay out, having a policy in place can provide an important layer of protection against financial losses resulting from a cyber attack or data breach.