Six Warning Signs You Have Poor IT Security

A security threat is a malicious act that may corrupt an entire organization’s data. A security incident is when company data or its network has been exposed. If an incident results in a network or data breach, it is called a security event.

IT security is not limited to cybersecurity. It extends to data protection, physical safety, and network security. So every organization must remain vigilant when protecting the company data and networks.

This blog will shed some light on warning signs that tell you your IT security is weak. But, at the same time, these signs are indicators of immediate cybersecurity threats and symptoms of a deeper problem. So please read on as we discuss six warning signs that tell you your IT security is weak and it is now essential for local businesses to find a reliable cybersecurity partner. For more information, please reach out to the experts at Systems Solutions’ IT Support Clarksville team.

Top Six Signs You Have Poor IT Security

1.  You have not mapped data flows

According to a recent survey, it is estimated that the cost of a single data breach went up to $4.24 million. So it is vital to have a secure IT infrastructure that can effectively manage data and provide a safe environment for employees. However, it is also vital to note that inadequate security practices in the form of weak network protection or poor password security can lead to data breaches and cybersecurity vulnerabilities. This is because these practices need to consider the business needs and ensure appropriate controls are in place. Furthermore, businesses must maintain updated systems or software, as it presents security threats.

To ensure adequate security, businesses must implement IT security policies and regular cybersecurity training for employees. It is also essential to regularly monitor systems and software for signs of vulnerabilities and issue updates when necessary

2. Abnormal information access requests

To help prevent information security breaches, it’s essential to identify and monitor signs of potential security risks. Poor IT security can take many forms, but one warning sign is that employees make unusual information access requests. This could include requesting access to sensitive data beyond what is necessary or requesting access to information that isn’t relevant to their job. Strange or unauthorized changes to company files could also be a red flag. This might include giving employees access to sensitive data when they shouldn’t have it or changing the password on a computer system without authorization.

Finally, consider any suspicious emails regarding confidential company information and tampering with computer systems. These could indicate potential compromise of personal or company data. These simple steps can prevent it risks and protect your organization from harmful cyber threats.

3.  Lack of staff awareness or a training program

In today’s digital age, businesses must have strong IT security practices. However, many companies haven’t been able to do so due to the lack of staff awareness and training programs. Poorly secured systems leave your business and customers at risk, especially when it comes to data loss. This is because a lack of regular system backups leaves your business vulnerable to data loss. In addition, inadequate firewalls and intrusion detection systems leave your business open to attack, which can lead to malware infection or other cyber-security breaches.

Moreover, poorly managed user accounts and passwords leave your business vulnerable to theft or unauthorized access, which can cause data loss or other cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Therefore, companies need to implement IT security best practices and educate their staff on the importance of safeguarding the digital environment.

4.  Your software hasn’t been patched in ages

It’s vital to patch your software to keep it secure against vulnerabilities regularly. If your software has been updated for a long time, it could be vulnerable to network security threats. Fixing outdated software ensures that it is secure and up-to-date with the latest security patches. Not updating software also creates a risk of failing to secure your environment correctly and opens you up to cybersecurity vulnerabilities. In addition, using strong passwords and encryption methods is essential when using your computer. It makes your data more secure and can make passwords strong.

Lastly, you must ensure that your computer networks are secure and open to attack. It will prevent malware from gaining access to your network and any sensitive data that may be stored on it.

5.  Your policies are all style, no substance

It’s vital to have sound IT security policies in place to protect your organization from data security threats. However, if your policies are all style and have no substance, then you will not likely be able to implement suitable IT security measures.

A good security policy should include specific steps for monitoring, analyzing, and responding to any signs of unauthorized access, change, or data deletion. However, with a system in place to monitor these activities, it becomes easier to assess the effectiveness of your security measures and address vulnerabilities effectively.

Similarly, you must protect your computer systems from malware, spyware, and other cyber threats. Without protection against these types of network security threats, your network becomes vulnerable and can be infected. Besides, encryption is one of the best ways to secure data from external threats.

6. You don’t remember when your last network security assessment was

You may have heard the term ‘infosec’ thrown around in conversations but don’t truly understand its role. Understanding IT security is vital before you can create an effective strategy and plan for it.

You should regularly assess your network security to ensure that it remains secure and updated. An evaluation includes addressing vulnerabilities in your infrastructure and software, such as vulnerabilities in third-party software, configuration errors, and outdated software.

If you don’t do an assessment regularly, you may become vulnerable to cyber attacks from hackers. Cyber-attacks include malware infections, data breaches, phishing scams, and social engineering attacks.