What Is Cyber Security?

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Cyber security is the application of technologies, processes and controls to protect systems, networks, programs, devices and data from cyber attacks.

It aims to reduce the risk of cyber attacks and protect against the unauthorised exploitation of systems, networks and technologies.

Protect your business against cyber attacks

A robust cyber security strategy is the best defence against attack, but many organisations don’t know where to begin.

Download our free guide to find out how to get started with the basics while keeping costs to a minimum.

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The legal requirement for cyber security

The GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) require organisations to implement appropriate security measures to protect personal data. Otherwise, there's a risk of substantial fines.

Cyber security is a critical business issue for every organisation.

Why is cyber security important?

The costs of cyber security breaches are rising

Privacy laws such as the GDPR can mean significant fines for organisations that suffer cyber security breaches. There are also non-financial costs to be considered, like reputational damage.

Cyber attacks are increasingly sophisticated

Cyber attacks continue to grow in sophistication, with attackers using an ever-expanding variety of tactics, including social engineering, malware and ransomware.

Cyber security is a critical, board-level issue

New regulations and reporting requirements make cyber security risk oversight a challenge. The board will need to continue to seek assurances from management that its cyber risk strategies will reduce the risk of attacks and limit financial and operational impacts.

Cyber crime is a big business

In 2018, the cyber crime economy was estimated to be worth $1.5 trillion, according to a study commissioned by Bromium.

Political, ethical and social incentives can also drive attackers.

The top cyber threats facing your organisation

Ransomware

One of the fastest-growing forms of cyber attack, ransomware is a type of malware that demands payment after encrypting the victim’s files, making them inaccessible. Paying the ransom does not guarantee the recovery of all encrypted data.

Learn more about ransomware

Phishing

Phishing attacks are continually on the rise. Often indistinguishable from genuine emails, text messages or phone calls, these scams can inflict enormous damage on organisations.

Learn more about phishing

Malware

Malware is a broad term used to describe any file or programme intended to harm a computer, and encompasses trojans, social engineering, worms, viruses and spyware.

Social engineering

Social engineering is used to deceive and manipulate victims to gain computer access. This is achieved by tricking users into clicking malicious links or by physically gaining access to a computer through deception.

Outdated software

The use of outdated (unpatched) software (e.g. Microsoft XP0 opens up opportunities for criminal hackers to take advantage of known vulnerabilities that can bring entire systems down.

Vulnerabilities in web applications and networks

Cyber criminals are constantly identifying new vulnerabilities in systems, networks or applications to exploit. These activities are conducted via automated attacks and can affect anyone, anywhere.

Penetration testing is an effective way to identify and eliminate vulnerabilities

Learn more about penetration testing

Start your journey to being cyber secure today

IT Governance has a wealth of security experience. For more than 15 years, we’ve helped hundreds of organisations with our deep industry expertise and pragmatic approach.

All our consultants are qualified and experienced practitioners, and our services can be tailored for organisations of all sizes.

Browse our wide range of products below to kick-start your project.