As technology continues to grow and transform at an astonishing rate, cybersecurity consulting firms have become a valuable resource to companies in all industries. There are many types of cyber companies who offer different services and technologies, so the first thing to consider is what you need. Many companies don’t have an internal Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), so they begin with an independent cyber consulting firm that can provide experienced CISO leadership who brings deep expertise and tried and true strategies to thwart attacks, recover data and strengthen systems to prevent cyber criminals from exploiting vulnerabilities.
Below are some of the most common ways that organizations benefit from an independent cybersecurity consulting firm.
An independent cybersecurity consulting firm doesn’t sell cyber tools or represent any vendors, which allows them to help companies evaluate their options and determine what technology is best suited to help keep data safe and guard against cyberattacks. After assessing an organization’s critical assets and identifying threats and vulnerabilities, a cybersecurity consulting firm can develop a multiphase roadmap that addresses immediate concerns as well as a longer-term strategy for security, compliance and ongoing governance to address changes as the organization evolves over time.
Approximately 64 percent of businesses have experienced a web-based attack, according to Fundera, and small to mid-size organizations spend an average of $7.68 million per incident. Cybersecurity consulting can help organizations mitigate certain risks and prevent identity theft, hacking and data theft. A cybersecurity consultant can also help identify risks that the business may have previously overlooked.
Phishing is a common type of social engineering attack that cybercriminals use to steal business data, such as login credentials or credit card numbers. During a phishing attack, a hacker may masquerade as a trusted entity to trick the victim into opening a text message, email or other form of online message with a malicious link that installs malware on the victim’s computer, and therefore, the company’s network. Cybersecurity consultants can help lower the chance of these attacks by providing proper guidance and tools to protect against these crimes.
Information security threats have become more sophisticated and targeted over time. The time to start thinking about your response to a cyberattack isn’t after the attack happens. A cybersecurity consulting firm can help a business with threat management and the development of an effective incident response plan with well-thought approaches to addressing and managing a wide variety of potential cyberattacks or network security breach scenarios.
Just one employee mistake or vulnerability in a system can lead to lost or compromised data. When sensitive business data is stolen or corrupted, a business may be held liable for any damages, such as customer identity theft. Hiring a cybersecurity consulting firm can help businesses avoid potential lawsuits stemming from lost or compromised information.
Properly trained employees are an organization’s best defense against cyber crimes. It is essential for companies to educate their employees on how to identify and avoid potential cyber threats that could put the business at risk. Cybersecurity consulting firms can help train employees on safe workplace practices and work to establish and maintain a culture of cyber awareness through an ongoing education program.
The consequences of data loss or corruption can be catastrophic for a business of any size. Fortunately, there are cybersecurity consulting firms available to help businesses in need of IT services. For more information or to speak with an independent cybersecurity consulting firm, contact Hartman Executive Advisors today.