What is Cyber Security?
The term ‘cyber security’ refers to all safeguards and measures implemented to reduce the likelihood of a digital security breach. Cyber security affects all computers and mobile devices across the board – all of which may be targeted by cyber criminals. Cyber security focuses heavily on privacy and confidentiality, along with data integrity and identity protection. Security breaches in general are nothing new, but have become more commonplace and problematic in today’s digital era. The greater the extent to which the world becomes reliant on connected technology, the greater the threat posed by cybercriminals worldwide.
From reputation damage to system downtime to financial loss, cyber security issues can be incredibly costly. According to a recent study, almost half of all businesses operating in 2017 experienced at least one cyber attack or attempted security breach. Precisely the reason why businesses worldwide have begun prioritizing cyber security, implementing robust protective measures and hiring cyber security experts to oversee their operations.
The Importance of Security
The Internet has transformed the face of everyday life for billions of people worldwide. Already enormous, daily web traffic volumes are growing at an exponential rate. To such an extent that the vast majority of communications and business activities worldwide are fundamentally reliant on the Internet. From simple retail purchases to the most sensitive and high-profile business activities, everything takes place online. All of which adds up to a near-irresistible opportunity for the 21st century cyber criminal.
Turning a blind eye to cyber security is no longer an option. Businesses that fail to adequately protect themselves face the prospect of catastrophic consequences. Irrespective of the size, nature or purpose of the business, the effects of a cyber attack can be devastating. What’s more, some of the highest profile attacks over recent years have demonstrated how even the biggest companies in the world aren’t always as well protected as they think they are. Even when their systems are brought back online and business continues as normal, the reputational damage incurred can be much more difficult to overcome.
Of course, it’s not simply a case of proactively protecting your business and its general interests from cyber attacks. You also need to think carefully about the extent to which your customers are protected. Oftentimes, a security breach that has negative consequences for one or more customers can be far more detrimental than an attack on the company itself. Businesses aren’t simply expected to protect their customers online – they have a legal obligation to do so. All of which amounts to yet another responsibility, which calls for the input and expertise of talented of cyber security specialists.
