10 Cybersecurity Resolutions for 2024
The New Year is the perfect opportunity to strengthen your cybersecurity safeguards. A strong security posture is more vital than ever. The increased popularity of generative AI, such as ChatGPT, and other machine learning tools can lead to unpredictable new attack threats, unique combinations of previous attack methods, and very convincing phishing attempts. These new tools can allow malicious actors to create higher quality and more effective attacks with much less effort.
Be prepared for these new threats! Implement these 10 resolutions in 2024 to ensure you are being vigilant with your information to protect you and your organization from cyberthreats.
1. Think Before You Click
Beware of emails, texts or other promotions that seem off or encourage you to urgently click on links. Pay attention to the website’s URL. Malicious websites may look identical to a legitimate site, but the URL may use a variation in spelling or a different domain (e.g., .com versus .net). This applies to QR codes as well, always check the address before you open a link.
2. Use a Password Manager
Using a password manager allows you to create randomized, complex, long passwords and save them in a safe place where you can easily access them when needed. Make sure you enforce multi-factor authentication on your password manager.
3. Keep Software Up-to-Date
By keeping your devices fully updated on the latest security software, you are using one of the best defenses against threats online. Don’t wait – update!
4. Implement Multi-Factor Authentication
Fortify your online accounts by enabling the strongest tools available, such as biometrics, security keys or a unique one-time code through an app on your mobile device. Focus on securing your external applications first.
5. Do Your Research
By being alert and aware online—your goal is to maintain a strong online posture and protect yourself and your information. Read reviews beforehand and do research before downloading anything onto your computer. Always check with your IT department before installing applications to ensure they are sanctioned within your environment.
6. Have You Checked Your Backups?
Backups are critical for business continuity and disaster recovery. Ensure they are tested frequently and are isolated within the production environment. Don’t have your backups fall prey to a ransomware attack.
7. Train Against Social Engineering
Social engineering is the main cause of modern security breaches and comes in many forms: phishing, tailgating, and impersonation to name a few. Develop countermeasures to common social engineering attacks and train staff to recognize them.
8. Keep it Simple
Unneeded complexity in your cybersecurity practices means more potential attack vectors and opportunities for mistakes. Keep policies and solutions simple where possible.
9. Implement Existing Cybersecurity Frameworks
Ensure your cybersecurity program follows best practices. Ensure compliance with frameworks like the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework or the Center for Internet Security (CIS) Critical Controls.
10. Join MS-ISAC
Joining the Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC) provides services such as threat research, cybersecurity alerts and configuration benchmarks. MS-ISAC also provides zero-cost security operation center services for all state, local, tribal and territory governments. Learn more at MS-ISAC’s website.
By implementing these 10 resolutions, you and your organization will be much better protected against cyberattacks in the New Year. Share these tips with your coworkers, friends and family to ensure that you are all better protected for the future.
Read about how to stay ahead of DDoS attacks!