October, which is National Cyber Security Awareness Month, is almost over. But, concerns about malware, ransomware, spoofing, pfishing, and other mischievous (and costly) activities are not. In fact,they seem to be intensifying. 

Consider this. Experts believe there is a hacker attack every 39 seconds, affecting one in three Americans each year. Even more staggering, a recent study commissioned by Bromium and presented by Dr. Michael McGuire at RSA, found that the cybercrime economy has grown to $1.5 trillion dollars in illicit profits annually. Staggering, right?

So, what steps have (or should) you take to better protect your organization from the complicated and ever-changing threats to cyber security?

Aside from basics like using antivirus/antispyware software; keeping your operating systems and applications current; adopting a formal internet/email policy; and training employees in basic cyber security principles, you should make cybersecurity a key element of your organization’s Continuity of Operations or Emergency Operations Plan (COOP/EOP).

But, don’t just put it in writing. Put it to the test. Consider adding a cyber scenario to your next COOP/EOP exercise. It’s a simple and inexpensive way to assess and advance your organization’s cyber security preparedness.

Hackers and scammers are constantly looking for new and different ways to get inside your organization. Do your part to protect it. Set some time aside to evaluate your current cyber situation (or better still, conduct a cyber exercise) so you’re not left apologizing, or worse, paying for your lack of preparedness.

National Cyber Security Awareness Month is sponsored by the National Cyber Security Division (NCSD) within the Department of Homeland Security and the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA, a non-profit organization). The time is designated to encourage vigilance and protection by all computer users. This includes you.

BOLDplanning provides expert consultative services and leading-edge, online software for the development, maintenance and exercising of continuity, emergency and hazard mitigation plans nationwide.