Keeping cyber security front of mind this October

Since the mid 90's, the internet has had a profound impact on our personal and business lives. It's transformed how we communicate, how we shop, even how we heat our homes. In an enterprise setting, the internet is the lifeblood of the organization, the engine which keeps everything moving. And yet the World Wide Web, on which we've come to depend, can also pose a significant threat if we don’t take the appropriate steps to mitigate its risks.

Now in its 11th year, National Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM) was developed by the US Department of Homeland Security and the National Cyber Security Alliance to raise awareness of online security for businesses, consumers, educational establishments and young people across the country, each October.

Throughout the month, businesses are encouraged to take part in spreading the cybersecurity message through posting safety and security tips on social networks, educating their customers and employees, displaying posters, holding events and much more.

Here at Avecto, we've signed up as a NCSAM Champion, helping our employees, customers and partners to understand the importance of securing their online environment.

Organizations face malware and Advanced Persistent Threats every day, with more and more businesses feeling the effects of a breach. The potency and regularity of these attacks, has led to many questions about the effectiveness of antivirus software, with some even claiming "Antivirus is dead".

So how can businesses stay safe online?

Despite the threat, the internet needn't be feared. Simple, proactive steps can provide a much more robust environment for end users to get on with their jobs and their lives. By taking a Defense in Depth approach to security, with a multi-layered strategy that incorporates solutions like patching, application whitelisting and privilege management, organizations can more effectively protect against cyber-borne threats and keep the engine running.

For further information about National Cyber Security Awareness Month, please visit the website at www.staysafeonline.org.