Category: Cybersecurity

The healthcare industry grows more vulnerable to cyber threats as the world goes digital. Digital health records and digital systems have made healthcare a goldmine of valuable data for cyber criminals. Whether it is personal medical histories or operational details critical to patient care, healthcare organizations store sensitive data that attackers are eager to exploit. Here are some statistics to emphasize on the seriousness of cyber threats that you might not be aware of:

• 61% healthcare organizations reported a moderate or substantial impact on healthcare delivery due to cyber incidents 

• 43% of healthcare organizations had to bear $100,000 – $1 million financial costs to recover 

• 26% of healthcare organizations ended up paying ransomware even after government authorities 

• 62% of healthcare organizations are very concerned about cyber-attacks on their systems

However, healthcare organizations need to take extra measures to protect their information and resources. This is so because healthcare organizations have the private health information of many patients. By partnering with a cyber security consulting service provider can minimize the risk of cyber-attacks that can lead to huge financial, legal and reputational costs. Here are some of the major cyber threats to look out for:

Data Breaches

Data breaches remain one of the biggest cyber threats for healthcare organizations. With threat actors gaining access to sensitive patient information through multiple attack vectors such as phishing, compromised credentials and even misconfigured cloud environments, healthcare organizations continue to bear the cost. In fact, as of 2023 Cost of Data Breach Report, the average cost of data breach for healthcare organizations is $10.93 million which is way higher than the industry average $4.45 million. Moreover, there has been a 53.3% cost increase over the last 3 years. The reason is simple: personal health information is more valuable on the black market than credit card credentials or regular personally identifiable information. View the table below to see the significant difference of the price of sensitive data on the black market:

Insider Threats

The healthcare industry faces significant threats from internal factors or insider threats. These threats can come from organization employees, contractors, and third-party vendors. Employees motivated by personal political gain may be inclined to compromise sensitive data. Moreover, external agents can pose as inside employees or contractors to gain access to information. These threats can result in data breaches, system disruptions and financial loss.

Phishing and Social Engineering

Phishing is a social engineering method in which an individual or organization tries to deceive another person to enter confidential information for malicious purposes through communication such as mail or text. With AI and other technologies, phishing attacks are becoming hard to distinguish, resulting in higher data breaches in healthcare. In fact, as of 2023 Cost of Data Breach Report, phishing is the top initial attack vector reporting for 16% of data breaches in healthcare sector. Examples of this are pretexting where an attacker pretends to be an authorized authority or service provider and baiting where the attacker places a malware infected device in a public place to be picked by the victim. Usually, healthcare staff members are manipulated into giving their access to devices and networks. It can be prevented by partnering with a cybersecurity consulting services provider to educate employees and putting in a security framework in place.

Ransomware

Ransomware attacks happen when hackers infiltrate organizations network through various and once inside, the hacker deploys the ransomware that effectively makes all the patient records, medical files, and administrative records inaccessible by the organization. The hackers then make threats to the organization into paying them their ransom to regain access.

Why are these attacks becoming a threat for healthcare organizations globally?

1. 26% healthcare organizations globally pay ransomware payments

2. Only 1 in 3 internal teams can identify a data breach in case of ransomware

3. Ransomware attacks cost on an average of $5.23 million dollars to organizations

All these numbers showcase how tackling ransomware is becoming a daunting task for healthcare organizations. To bring down these numbers and to make sure that your organization does not become a part of these numbers, consider investing in cybersecurity consulting services.

Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) Attacks

DDoS attack is a form of computer hacking that utilizes internet traffic to induce a large amount of traffic to a particular target to make such machine or network resource unavailable to its intended users. Similarly, several endpoints and the IoT devices are manipulated to install malware into the network to conduct a coordinated DDoS attack. 

Ransomware attacks have the dangerous effects of data exfiltration, but DDoS attacks cause operational disruptions without compromising a targeted network to achieve the same level of disturbance and can be more easily deployed at a larger scale. Infact, 40% of healthcare organizations globally had to pay recovery cost due to operational downtime in 2023. The objective of the DDoS attack is to cripple a healthcare facility and cease the attack only if an agreed amount of money is deposited in the attackers’ bank account.

Med Jacking

Med jacking is the process of hijacking medical devices such as health monitoring devices like pacemakers, wearables, and stationary devices, which are all connected to the internet. The main aim of hackers to do Med jacking is to steal sensitive patient information from medical devices. Unpatched systems, security updates and vulnerabilities in medical devices cause such device compromises which can even impact patient life.

The consequences of Med jacking can be very detrimental to healthcare firms if they do not employ cybersecurity consulting services. It is in direct violation of the MDR and IVDR regulations, and the organizations can be subject to financial and legal penalties. Following are the medical devices which are most susceptible to attack-

• Infusion and Insulin Pumps: Medical professionals remotely manage and administer blood, saline, and other medical fluids with IoT-controlled infusion and insulin pumps. Hackers can exploit the connectivity capabilities that link drug delivery systems and medical records. 
• Smart Pens: The smart pens store a trove of patient data stored, they are an attractive target that cybercriminals could easily exploit and enter patient medical database.  

• Implantable Cardiac Devices: Technological advancement has brought implantable cardiac medical devices, including pacemakers and the devices used to program them. A DDoS denial-of-service attack against a pacemaker has the potential to kill. 

• Wireless Vital Monitors: They can transmit heart rate, blood sugar, and other vital information to the doctor and patient and monitor patient health. It is important to encrypt this network to protect against cyber attacks.

With all these challenges investing in cybersecurity becomes critical becomes critical more than ever. Hospitals that are still not considering cybersecurity measures, might be putting themselves at the risk of cyber-attacks. By detecting threats before they become breaches, they can improve their security posture as well as maintain the trust in patients. But investing in firewall won’t save you from cyber threats, you need a partner who can help you build a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy. 

With PeoplActive, you can say goodbye to cyber threats. With proven solutions and years of experience in healthcare cybersecurity consulting, threat actors can only dream of infiltrating your healthcare organization. Learn more about cybersecurity consulting services and how we add the pro in your active cybersecurity measures.

The development of electronic healthcare records, telemedicine and inter-connected medical devices showcases how technology has penetrated healthcare. It has greatly expanded the field of patient care and patient management. As per a KPMG report, the medical device industry is projected to reach $800 million by 2030. Despite its growth, this industry is also facing threats from cyber-attacks and data breaches.
Imagine what would happen if cyber attackers get unauthorized access to medical records? Changing patient data, causing downtime in healthcare operations, and manipulating medical devices are all possible. This can impact the quality of care and even loss of trust in the healthcare institute. All these daunting scenarios highlight the need for robust healthcare cybersecurity measures. This blog explores what cybersecurity measures healthcare organizations need to take to protect patient data and how cybersecurity consulting services can help.

How Has Cybercrime Impacted the Healthcare and Medical Industry?

Cyber-attacks have evolved to not only endanger the financial health of healthcare organizations but unauthorized access to medical devices can also lead to misdiagnosis, incorrect treatment plans, or delayed care. In some extreme cases even patients’ lives are at danger too. To paint a clearer picture of this, in 2023 993 vulnerabilities were found in 966 healthcare devices tested, a 59% increase in the vulnerabilities which can be exploited by attackers to target healthcare organizations.

The recent attack on a hospital in London showcases an example how cyber attackers infiltrated the hospital’s systems and disrupted the operations. As a result, a lot of the critical operations had to be cancelled because medical records of patients were stolen. This also demonstrates that hospitals are unprepared or don’t have a vulnerability management strategy against cyber-attacks. To put this thing across as numbers, only 28% organizations globally take a proactive approach to secure their medical devices from such cyber incidents. Furthermore, it also comes down to financial consequences, legal fines and reputational damage in the long run. All in all, this boils down that healthcare needs to take more robust steps to safeguard patient data and their medical devices.

How to Protect Patient Data?

Now, that we have seen the seriousness of cybercrime in patient welfare and data, here are five steps that cybersecurity consulting services advice to take to protect patient data:

1. Encrypting Data:

In many cybersecurity regulatory compliances, data encryption is a requirement, preventing unauthorized users from intercepting data. To secure Protected Health Information (PHI) especially on electronic devices or connected devices, healthcare companies need to encrypt data not only when it is at rest but also when in transit. Similarly, e-mails containing sensitive information should also be encrypted to prevent data theft. Strong encryption standards such as AES-256 can be used for data encryption.

2. Access Controls:

Patient information should not be accessible to everyone in the organisation since internal theft is a common cybercrime. By implementing security controls like role-based access controls and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) can reduce unauthorized access of data. With role-based access controls organizations can define access based on the professional’s role. Furthermore, MFA adds an extra layer of data protection security. Putting in place a security policy can further amplify healthcare data security.

3. Patch Management and Updates:

78% of healthcare professionals worldwide say that patching vulnerabilities in medical devices is the biggest gap in their defenses. Every IT team dread updating software, and it is easy to see why. Keeping each piece of technology updated and secured is often time-consuming. But regular updates protect the device and the critical information it carries by patching the vulnerabilities before they are exploited. Healthcare professionals can follow a practice to test the patches in a controlled environment before deploying them to ensure proper functionality.

4. Backup Your Systems:

Backup standards usually require encrypted data, including PHI and PII. Taking such a precaution is important to guarantee that the data is backed up in a timely and right manner. The healthcare company has a choice between full backups, incremental backups, and differential backup in accordance with their health records requirements.
Backup standards usually require encrypted data, including PHI and PII. Taking such a precaution is important to guarantee that the data is backed up in a timely and right manner. The healthcare company has a choice between full backups, incremental backups, and differential backup in accordance with their health records requirements.
It is a prerequisite to carry out security assessment, such as third-party risk assessments or timely security audits to find appropriate ways to protect your patients’ health information. Security audits help healthcare organizations in multiple ways. They can find out whether or not vendors comply with the same cybersecurity standards. Furthermore, it gives them an idea of their security posture as they learn their vulnerabilities. By regular audits they can stay vigilant and detect any abnormalities before they escalate.
The healthcare company can choose to employ cybersecurity consulting services to aid in protecting sensitive patient information and implementing necessary measures to safeguard data and medical devices.

How to Protect Medical Devices?

As medical devices get more connected so does the attack surface area that exploits their vulnerabilities. Ensuring their security not only ensures care continuity but also the integrity of medical treatments and the trust in healthcare providers. Furthermore, healthcare providers must invest in secure medical devices to avoid cyber incidents. Here are a few ways that healthcare cybersecurity consulting companies would advise you to take care of:

1. Risk Assessment:

A healthcare cybersecurity consulting company will test and probe medical devices for potential threats and weaknesses. If vulnerabilities and compromises are found, they should be rectified immediately. These assessments are done in context with the types of vulnerabilities in medical devices which are categorized based on hardware vulnerabilities, software vulnerabilities and OS vulnerabilities. Once these are identified then with proper security updates these vulnerabilities can be eliminated.

2. Network Segmentation:

Through isolation of medical devices from the standard production network, the other medical devices are protected from becoming contaminated. Medical devices can be placed on a separate network which enables hospital to avoid the risk that a system which accesses less secure websites could infect a mission-critical device.

3. Incident Response Plan:

An incident response plan for medical device compromise should include the following steps:

• Identify and report the incident 

• Evaluate its severity and inform the appropriate team

• Address vulnerabilities and reduce impact 

• Resolve the incident and conduct a post-incident analysis 

• Update, improve and test the plan 

This plan helps healthcare organizations effectively respond to medical device compromises and minimize the impact of cyber incidents.

4. Staff Awareness and Training:

Without any knowledge, the healthcare staff could download a contaminated file, run unauthorized software, or plug in a corrupted pen drive. Train staff to create strong, secure passwords and change them regularly in adherence with the compliance policies. By training staff who are engaged with medical devices, the hospital can create a secure environment and a new line of cyber defence.

5. Secure Software Development:

Integrating secure development practices like encryption protocols, secure operating systems, access controls in the medical device product development stage can minimize the risk of cyber threats. By adhering to the compliance standards created by international bodies for medical device development and practices like secure by design can further strengthen the resilience of medical devices. Finally, updating the devices and patching the device for vulnerabilities can improve the device’s security in the long run.

How to Move Forward

The rise of interconnected devices makes room for both opportunities and risks which is why cybersecurity measures to protect patient safety, privacy, and health system security must be a top priority. Regulatory bodies and standards organizations have brought guidelines and compliance standards which must be adhered to deal with such incidents, giving reference to manage medical device cybersecurity and minimizing the threats. 

The healthcare sector experienced many data breaches, indicating need for the comprehensive cybersecurity plans and practices. Making and enforcing these plans and practices standalone is a difficult task for a healthcare company. Not to worry, PeoplActive is here to assist your organization to achieve complete cyber resilience. With a team of dedicated cybersecurity experts who have years of experience and expertise of the best cybersecurity practices, you should partner with us for a safer tomorrow. Learn more about our healthcare cybersecurity consulting services to build cyber resilience for your healthcare business.

Every day we hear about cyber-attacks happening around us, be it data breach or ransomware; we are covered with such incidents from all over the world. Cyber threats have become more prevalent as businesses and individuals are being exposed more than ever. As cyber attackers update their tactics with evolving technology, it can be difficult to keep up with the latest security advancements now and then. Whereas cybersecurity conferences and events act as a bridge for experts worldwide to share best practices and learn from each other to strengthen their collective defense. In addition to enhancing individual and corporate know-how and skills, it provides participants with hands-on experience with cutting-edge cyber security technology.  So, without further ado, let’s look at the biggest conferences and cyber security events planned for 2024.

1. Gartner Security and Risk Summit

Date: 12th – 13th February 2024
Place: Dubai, UAE
Venue: Conrad Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Registration Link: https://www.gartner.com/en/conferences/emea/security-risk-management-uae/register

Gartner Security & Risk Management Summit plans to provide insights to security and risk management leaders and practitioners on how to continuously improve the flexibility and responsiveness of security risk management techniques and technology to achieve mission critical objectives. The summit will broadly cover areas such as impact of Generative AI on security, cybersecurity value drivers, infrastructure security and cybersecurity board reporting.

2. Gartner Identity and Access Management Summit

Date: 4th – 5th March 2024
Place: London, UK
Venue: InterContinental London – the O2
Registration Link: https://www.gartner.com/en/conferences/emea/identity-access-management-uk/register

Gartner Identity and Access Management Summit will address the challenges imperative to identity access management professionals. Professionals can expect conversations around identity governance and administration, privileged access management, access management, user authentication and identity proofing, IAM program management. Furthermore, 2 spotlight conversations happening around cybersecurity, leadership and strategy along with technical insights to strengthen their identity-based controls while delivering digital transformation and business value.

3. Google Cloud Next ‘24

Date: 12th – 14th April 2024
Place: Las Vegas, USA
Venue: Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas.
Registration Link: https://cloud.withgoogle.com/next

Next ’24 is Google’s global exhibition focused on inspiration, innovation, and education. A socially responsible, accessible, and scalable cloud is a central theme of the exhibition that appeals to decision makers, developers, and anyone who cares about it. It’s an opportunity for them to share challenges, solutions, game-changing technologies, and 10x ideas. The industry can expect conversations on AI and ML, architecting and deploying applications on Google Cloud, migrating, modernizing, and unleashing innovation with Google Cloud databases, among other topics.

4. RSA Conference

Date: 6th – 9th May 2024
Place:  San Franscisco, USA
Venue: Moscone Center
Registration Link: https://path.rsaconference.com/flow/rsac/us24/us24regdefault/login

RSA Conference this year is built on the theme ‘The Art of Possible’ which conveys the idea that how a resilient system can be built by collective collaboration and sharing information and knowledge with like-minded individuals. The cybersecurity conference will be a boon for individuals who are registering with the intent to network with industry peers as well as learn about the latest solutions in this space. Not only just networking but also, they can try their hands in the learning labs session where they can focus on a particular challenge in a hands-on setting. Furthermore, the SANDBOX event gives them an insight into the latest technology demonstrations.

5. Nordic IT Security Event

Date: 23rd May 2024
Place: Stockholm, Sweden
Venue: Stockholm Waterfront Congress Center
Registration Link: https://nordicitsecurity.com/nordic-it-security-conference-2024-org/

The 17-year-old event provides a platform for seasoned professionals from the industry to have conversations around critical business topics. Attendees can expect a platform where they share knowledge regarding how to stay at the forefront of this expanding field and equip themselves with necessary tools required to tackle the emerging cyber threats. One of the few topics around which discussions can be expected are Cyber risk quantification, cyber awareness for the boards, AI and machine learning, NIS2 Ransomware and how to implement cyber security strategy in the upcoming years.

6. Infosecurity Europe

Date: 4th – 6th June 2024
Place: London, UK
Venue: Excel London
Registration Link: https://www.infosecurityeurope.com/en-gb/forms/register-interest.html

Infosecurity Europe is a platform that connects peers in information security, from experts and engineers to innovators and industry leaders. Security professionals can expect an event covering strategic conversations by industry leaders that will help you optimize the security posture of your organization and handle the security in a mature way. Likewise, you can enroll in different workshops and product showcases to update yourself in the cybersecurity realm. For professionals who are new to such cybersecurity conferences, there is even a discovery zone that would help them navigate the conference with ease.

7. Defcon USA

Date: 8th –11th August 2024
Place: Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
Venue: Las Vegas Convention Center
Registration Link: https://defcon.org/

DEF-CON is the longest running hacker-con, which will be entering its 32nd year in 2024. The conference would cover rich conversations by industry professionals in the realm of security and privacy alongside multiple other events that allow people to be a part of. Some of the popular events that happen are capture the flag, lockpicking village, and social activities, and several smaller cybersecurity events. Furthermore, the event includes both private and public expert conversations.

8. Gartner Security and Risk Summit, London

Date: 23rd – 25th September 2024
Place: London, UK
Venue: Excel London
Registration Link: https://www.gartner.com/en/conferences/emea/security-risk-management-uk/register

Gartner Security & Risk Management Summit plans to provide insights to security and risk management leaders and practitioners on how to continuously improve the flexibility and responsiveness of security risk management techniques and technology to achieve mission critical objectives. From roundtables to end user case studies to peer conversations, participants will gain insights into real-life security challenges and how to mitigate them.

9. International Cyber Expo

Date: 24th – 25th September 2024
Place: London, UK
Venue: Olympia London
Registration Link: https://www.internationalcyberexpo.com/visit/register-interest

The international cyber expo is aimed at informing, engaging, interacting, and empowering security professionals. It offers a chance to explore and discover the latest and most advanced cybersecurity solutions available today. Moreover, you can connect with influential figures and experts in the industry through this cybersecurity conference. You can also attend informative sessions and workshops conducted by industry experts and thought leaders. What else is there? Stay abreast of the ever-evolving digital landscape by learning the latest trends, practices, and innovative approaches to cybersecurity. Explore global perspectives on cybersecurity challenges and witness tailored solutions for different industries.

10. Cyber Security and Cloud Expo

Date: 1st – 2nd October 2024
Place: Amsterdam. Europe
Venue: Rai, Amsterdam
Registration Link: https://cybersecuritycloudexpo.com/europe/pass-types-and-prices/

The Cyber security and cloud expo is an event where key industry professionals connect and discuss the latest trends in cybersecurity. This cyber security event is attended by Chief Information Security Officers, Chief Information Officers, Chief Security Architects, Heads of Information Security, Chief Compliance Officers, Privacy Officers and Data Protection Specialists and many more. Attendees can expect discussions around zero trust, threat detection & response, cyber security landscape, identity & access management, application security, hybrid cloud strategies, cloud adoption, cloud transformation, and many more for this year.

11. it-sa Expo and Congress

Date: 22nd – 24th October 2024
Place: Nürnberg, Germany
Venue: Exhibition Centre Nürnberg
Registration Link: https://www.itsa365.de/en/register

it-sa Expo and Congress is a platform for everyone and anyone who is professionally dedicated to IT security. The Nürnberg Expo is one of the largest platforms for industry specific IT solutions and is a trend barometer for the entire security market with current topics, specialist forum contributions and inspiring presentations.

With 19,000+ visitors and 795 exhibitors in 2023, visitors can expect a comprehensive discussion happening around cyber security and related topics

12. Critical Infrastructure Protection and Resilience Europe

Date: 12th – 14th November 2024
Place: Madrid, Spain
Venue: TBD
Registration Link: https://www.cipre-expo.com/buy-tickets/

Taking part in Critical Infrastructure Protection and Resilience Europe will keep you informed about the latest challenges and issues facing Europe’s critical national infrastructure (CNI). Additionally, you will gain insight into what the future holds for Europe’s, the cooperation and support required between member nations and how to better plan, coordinate, and manage a disaster. Further, the conference will provide discussions and thought-provoking presentations on serious critical infrastructure issues and challenges faced by various industries. Also, gain a chance to witness leading technologies and products in the realm of cyber security and other domains.

13. Global Cyber Conference

Date: 26th – 27th November 2024
Place: Zurich, Switzerland
Venue: The Dolder Grand
Registration Link: https://www.globalcyberconference.com/event/e5d889a4-067c-4703-807f-b033654fab4b/regProcessStep1

Global Cyber Conference is a leading international cybersecurity event that brings together senior cybersecurity stakeholders, decision-makers, public authorities, and academia from around the world. To strengthen cyber resilience, key decision-makers are provided with a networking and learning platform. A key focus of the conference will be cloud security and AI security, along with their impact on business strategies. Each topic is covered in depth to provide attendees with comprehensive knowledge, practical use cases, and critical tools to effectively deal with complex challenges.

14. Black Hat, Europe

Date: 9th – 12th December 2024
Place: London, United Kingdom
Venue: Excel London
Registration Link: https://www.blackhat.com/upcoming.html#europe

For more than 18 years, Black Hat has provided attendees with the latest in information security research, development, and trends. As part of these high-profile global security training and events, the event organizers strive to bring together the most talented minds from the industry so that they can better serve the security industry’s needs. The Black Hat Conference inspires professionals at all career levels, encouraging collaboration among academics, world-class researchers, and public and private leaders.

Wrapping up:

Well, we have covered the biggest cybersecurity conferences happening in the realm of cyber security. These events are not just your opportunity to network and learn from your peers and industry leaders but also to implement the practices in your defense against cyberattacks. Keeping up with the cybersecurity trend will only make your defense stronger in this dynamic world of cybersecurity. And if you are still unable to figure out how you should go about the challenge, you can reach out to us at info@peoplactive.com

In the face of cloud computing’s transformative potential, digital environments must be carefully balanced, as seen by the dynamic struggle between cybersecurity and cloud security. Cybersecurity uses a variety of strategies to prevent unauthorized access, data breaches, and other cyberthreats. It is the unwavering defender of the digital domain. The challenges posed by transferring data and services to cloud environments are simultaneously addressed by cloud security, which emerges as a specialized defense. A seamless integration of cybersecurity and cloud web security is necessary for this symbiotic, as opposed to antagonistic, relationship. Security for cloud environments must adapt to the nuances of cloud infrastructures and shared responsibility models, while also proactively combating new cyber threats. The intricacy originates from here. After all, this convergence is a collaborative endeavor, a strategic alliance where the proficiencies of cybersecurity and cloud web security unite to fortify the digital terrain against astute and dynamic adversaries, ensuring the confidentiality, availability, and integrity of critical information in an era dominated by cloud computing.

Also Read: What Are the Different Roles in Cybersecurity and Which Expert Do You Need

What does Cybersecurity mean?

The comprehensive method of protecting digital networks, systems, and data from harm, illegal access, and attacks is known as cybersecurity. It is a dynamic, multifaceted field of study. Protecting individual devices is just one aspect of the task; another is defending critical infrastructure and entire networks from a variety of dynamic threats. Hire Cybersecurity Engineers to fight against these emerging cyber threats.

These are the key elements of cybersecurity:

For individuals and businesses to prevent unauthorized access to devices, networks, and data, cybersecurity is crucial.  Furthermore, thwarting attacks that jeopardize a system’s or device’s functionality is essential. The world economy, which is expected to be the third largest in the world by 2025, is expected to lose $10.5 trillion to cybercrime, behind only the US and China. This drives home how important cybersecurity is. Alongside the growth of the cybersecurity industry comes the rise in cybercrime and data breaches. To protect their sensitive data, more businesses are resorting to cybersecurity consulting and software.

Suitable Cybersecurity Measures

Enterprises that use traditional cybersecurity rely on a robust defense toolkit that includes firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, antivirus software, and security policies. Combining these technologies provides the first line of defense against a wide range of cyber threats, from simple malware to extremely sophisticated phishing schemes.  To get suitable cybersecurity measure for your business hire PeoplActive’s Cybersecurity Consulting Services.

Barriers to Traditional Cybersecurity

Traditional cybersecurity faces challenges in keeping up with the constantly changing tactics employed by cybercriminals. Because threats are becoming more sophisticated, defense strategy needs to constantly innovate and adapt to stay ahead of hostile actors. But worry not PeoplActive’s Cybersecurity Consulting Services can fill this gap.

Acknowledging Cloud Security

The Cloud Computing Revolution

A paradigm shift in IT has been brought about by cloud computing, which offers unprecedented scalability, flexibility, and affordability. Organizations can grow operations, manage resources more effectively, and respond quickly to changing business needs thanks to the increasing adoption of cloud services.

Components of Cloud Security

Cloud security refers to a collection of guidelines, best practices, and technical developments that safeguard cloud computing environments, also known as cloud-based systems, which include cloud data, apps, networks, and infrastructure. Put simply, technologies and policies that defend cloud computing environments against cybersecurity threats from both the inside and outside constitute cloud security. Unauthorized servers are prevented from accessing data stored in the cloud using cloud data security. Cloud security, or cloud cyber security, and enterprise cloud security require work from both the organization and the cloud service provider because third-party providers offer cloud services over the internet.

Among the essential elements of cloud-based security are:

An architecture for cloud security that is based on best practices for cloud security is necessary for network and cloud security.

Essential Guidelines for Cloud Security

Prominent recommendations for cloud security encompass:

• Failing to recognize that you and the cloud service provider have shared security responsibilities
• Recognizing the uses and sharing of the data you own
• Being familiar with your cloud service provider’s security measures
• Data encryption (for both stationary and mobile data)
• How to secure your endpoints with firewalls and anti-malware software
• Making use of trustworthy cloud security programs

Resolving Security Issues in the Cloud

Despite the benefits, worries about the shared responsibility model, data breaches, and compliance problems continue. Cloud providers secure the infrastructure, but businesses must put strong security measures in place for their data and apps. This is a complicated environment that organizations must navigate. But worry not Hire Cybersecurity Engineers in just 48 hours.

Also Read: The Crucial Role of Cloud Security in Education

The Showdown: Where They Clash and Align

Integration Challenges

A major obstacle is the seamless integration of traditional cybersecurity tools with cloud environments. To prevent security lapses that could be exploited by cybercriminals, organizations need to make sure that security protocols are uniform across both on-site and cloud infrastructure.

Data Security and Adherence

Managing the complex network of international data protection laws is a major obstacle for businesses using cloud services. Finding the ideal balance between regional mandate compliance and data accessibility necessitates a sophisticated strategy involving specific policies and procedures.

Prospects for Collaboration

Cloud security and cybersecurity can work together quite a bit, despite integration obstacles. Businesses can develop a cohesive security plan that tackles the distinct risks brought about by the combination of traditional and cloud-based technologies by utilizing the advantages of both.

Cybersecurity in Cloud Computing

Cloud computing security prevents data breaches in cloud computing infrastructure and components. The kind of cloud computing service and cloud environment determine the cybersecurity techniques.

Secure Services for Cloud Computing

Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS)

In Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), networking, virtual private servers, storage, and other resources are made available to businesses via the Internet by third-party cloud providers. Servers, the data on the servers, storage, virtualization, and networking hardware are all under the cloud service provider’s protection. On the other hand, network traffic, applications, operating systems, and user access security fall under the purview of the company.

Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS)

Tools like debuggers, compilers, and source code editors are provided by third-party cloud providers under PaaS. To create, execute, and maintain custom apps, developers use these tools. Ensuring cloud security and safeguarding the cloud model and its constituent parts is essentially the responsibility of the cloud service provider. The security backend is managed by the cloud service provider, but the organization is still in charge of protecting its apps.

Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)

Delivered by a third-party cloud provider, SaaS offers ready-to-use, hosted applications on the cloud. Dealing with your cloud service provider on security terms is necessary when using SaaS.

Striking the Appropriate Balance

Evaluating organizational requirements

To identify crucial resources, possible vulnerabilities, and the specific threat landscape they face, organizations must perform a thorough risk assessment. A customized and successful security plan begins with a thorough understanding of the unique requirements of the company.    

Putting into Practice a Comprehensive Security Program

Integrating cybersecurity and cloud security technologies into a single, unified framework is a smart idea. The capacity to identify and react promptly to emerging threats requires proactive incident response capabilities, threat intelligence, and continuous monitoring, which are essential for organizations.

Also Read: The Best Ways for CEOs to Protect Their Businesses from Cyber Threats

Wrapping it up

Active Protection Against Cybersecurity in the complex field where cloud security and cybersecurity collide, engineers are indispensable. These experts fill in the gaps between the broader cybersecurity space and the specifics of data protection in cloud environments with their vast combined knowledge of both fields. These engineers actively search for vulnerabilities and employ cutting-edge technologies in addition to conventional defense mechanisms to lower risks and offer a robust defense against a range of cyber threats. Their capacity to quickly adapt to new threats with the aid of artificial intelligence and machine learning is a crucial aspect of the constantly evolving world of cyber threats. Their cooperative efforts with cloud security protocols enhance the development of strong access controls, encryption techniques, and data integrity protections. Primarily, PeoplActive Cybersecurity Engineers usher in a collaborative era where cybersecurity and cloud security work together to fortify the digital environment. This is the right time to hire Cybersecurity Engineers.

Having a trusted partner is essential because they can ensure that your software is patched, your systems are safe, and your staff is aware of phishing and social engineering. This blog helps you choose a cybersecurity consulting firm by guiding you through the key considerations that will help you achieve your business objectives and anticipate potential hazards. Let us now begin the process of choosing your cyber sentinel.   

Also Read: A Practical Budgeting Approach to Cybersecurity 

The Vital Role of Cybersecurity Consulting Company

A cybersecurity consulting company plays a vital role in today’s digital landscape by providing informed guidance and services to businesses wishing to protect their digital assets and sensitive data. The following encapsulates their vital importance: 

• Evaluation and Control of Risk: Cybersecurity experts examine the digital infrastructure of a company to find any weak points and gauge risk. They then devise plans to efficiently control and lessen these risks. This is the right time to hire cybersecurity engineers.  
• Solutions for Tailored Security: Security experts customize their services to meet the unique requirements and obstacles of each company. To comply with industry requirements and the objectives of the business, tailored security solutions must be implemented.  
• Regulation Adherence and Compliance: The constantly shifting world of laws and compliance requirements is well-known to cybersecurity specialists. To prevent legal issues and fines, they make sure that businesses follow industry-specific regulations and applicable legislation.  
• Reaction to and Recovery from Incidents: Cybersecurity experts help firms respond quickly and efficiently to security breaches, which is a terrible event. To reduce damage and downtime, they oversee the recovery process, create backup strategies, and carry out forensic investigations. Hire Cybersecurity Engineers with PeoplActive. 
• Security Awareness and Training: A major contributing element to cybersecurity incidents is human mistakes. To strengthen the human firewall, consultants offer training programs that inform staff members about potential dangers, safe online conduct, and the significance of cybersecurity regulations.
• Linking and Optimizing Technology: Using cutting-edge technology is necessary to stay ahead in cybersecurity. Organizations can safeguard themselves against ever-evolving threats by enlisting the assistance of consultants who assist in the integration and optimization of security systems. 
• Threat Intelligence and Ongoing Monitoring: The digital environment of a firm is continuously monitored by experts due to the dynamic nature of cyber threats. Their ability to stay up to date on the most recent threat intelligence makes it possible for them to take proactive steps to stop and address new cyber threats.
• Strategies for Business Continuity: Companies that want to create complete business continuity strategies might collaborate with cybersecurity professionals. In the event of a cyberattack or other disruption, this involves taking precautions to guarantee the continuous operation of vital systems and services. 

What Services Should Be on Your Cybersecurity Checklist?

Many services that cybersecurity consulting companies provide can be appropriate for your company. Finding the best solution can be challenging given the variety of options available; making the incorrect decision could leave your company vulnerable to cyberattacks and serious security flaws. To get the best protection against cyber threats, keep in mind that you require cybersecurity consulting services that are customized for your needs. A suitable solution will fit your company’s size, budget, and industry standards while protecting confidential information. When choosing the best cybersecurity consulting services for your company, take into account the services listed below.  

Network Security

This is how a corporate network is shielded from breaches and unwanted access. It entails putting in place safe infrastructures and keeping an eye out for security breaches. Therefore, a cybersecurity consulting company offering network security makes sure your company is protected from dangerous actions that could compromise or allow unauthorized access to your system.  

Cloud Security

Cloud Computing environments are protected from both external and internal dangers using policies and technology. If cloud services are used by your company, be sure that cloud security is included in your security package to safeguard off-premises data.  

Penetration Testing

To find weaknesses that cybercriminals might exploit and strengthen the system’s security, penetration testing involves simulating an assault on a computer or network system.  

Compliance Supervision

This means making sure a business complies with all applicable laws, rules, regulations, standards, and moral guidelines. Cybersecurity Consulting Companies that provide compliance management services can assist your company in adhering to data security laws, avoiding fines and harm to your brand.

Why Choosing a good Cybersecurity Consulting Company is important?

It’s important to choose the right cybersecurity consulting company, so don’t rush into it. The reason for this is that the correct firm can help you navigate the intricacies of the digital world. Organizations need to select a reliable cybersecurity consulting partner for the reasons listed below:  

• Data Security: Organizations hold a lot of data, which can be a treasure trove for hackers. Your data, safe databases, and backup systems will all be encrypted by a reputable cybersecurity provider. Furthermore, the supplier will lessen the possibility of a disastrous data leak.  
• Business Continuity: When activities are interrupted by a cyberattack, there might be a substantial amount of downtime. You can reduce interruptions, respond to threats, mitigate losses, get back to business as usual, and guarantee continuity with the help of an experienced security partner.  
• Financial Security: The cost of incident response and recovery resulting from cyberattacks can cause financial losses. Furthermore, problems with trust might cause firms to lose clients. When you choose an established cybersecurity consulting company, you can prevent these losses.  
• Skills and Resources: Technical knowledge and resources are necessary for cybersecurity, as it is a complicated topic. Developing a team internally isn’t practical for many businesses. Businesses may get the know-how, resources, and assistance they require to protect their data by outsourcing to a reputable online security firm.  
• Proactive Threat Management: Keeping up with the most recent developments can be difficult for businesses because cyber threats are always changing. Cybersecurity Consulting Companies are experts at keeping up with the most recent strategies employed by hackers to take advantage of weaknesses. To help your company remain proactive in its defense, it can offer continuous threat monitoring, intelligence, and analysis.  
• Reputation management: Businesses are trusted with the data of their partners and customers. The company’s reputation and trust might be seriously damaged by a data leak. Businesses may establish trust and loyalty by showcasing their dedication to data protection through a partnership with an experienced cybersecurity consulting company.  

Also Read: Why Should Businesses Opt for Cybersecurity Consulting? 

How to Vet a Cybersecurity Consulting Company?

You need to think about experience, technology, customer support, and adaptability when choosing a cybersecurity consulting company to safeguard your company against potential dangers.

• Proactive Strategy: Being ahead of attackers by predicting dangers is important in cybersecurity, as it goes beyond simply reacting to them. Proactively monitoring the environment for new risks and adjusting their plans as necessary, the top businesses take a proactive stance. 
• Experience and Expertise: A cybersecurity consulting company ought to have a group of experts with a solid foundation in internet security. In your field, you ought to seek out a company that has a track record of success. Hire PeoplActive’s Cybersecurity Consulting Services Now. 
• Transparency: Information regarding how cybersecurity providers will safeguard your systems should be clear and concise. A company that offers comprehensive and lucid information on its operations and security standing is one you want to take into consideration. 
• Newest Technology: Innovations in cybersecurity tools, state-of-the-art encryption methods, and artificial intelligence for threat identification are examples of advanced technology. Criminals are becoming more cunning and using the newest technology, which is why cyber risks are evolving so quickly. Consequently, it is essential to look for a business that counters risks with the newest tools and methods. 
• Tailored Solutions: Depending on elements like its size and data kind, every company has different security requirements. An excellent provider of internet security will provide services that are adaptable and adjustable to meet your unique needs.
• Robust Customer Support: When you need dependable, round-the-clock assistance, your cybersecurity consulting company should be there to offer it. Additionally, they must keep you informed about any dangers to the IT infrastructure of your company as well as the precautions they are taking to protect it.
• Service Offering: Take into consideration Cybersecurity Consulting Companies that provide a host of services, such as compliance management, incident response, penetration testing, risk assessment, and reporting. In this way, you may be sure that the team can always handle your security requirements.  

Final Thoughts 

A critical choice that needs to be well thought out is choosing the best cybersecurity consulting company. After determining your security needs, thoroughly consider the experience, scope of services, and reputation of possible suppliers. In addition, rather than settling for a package that satisfies all needs, you should work toward a bespoke solution that fits your organization. You should choose a partner who will empower your staff with cybersecurity knowledge and offer ongoing assistance, rather than just a provider, as you will be forming a long-term connection with them. You can choose a cybersecurity consulting company that genuinely protects the digital infrastructure of your company with confidence once you’ve completed all these steps. 

Regardless of the size of the industry, organizations now operate in a digital environment where data is king, and technology is the foundation of corporate operations. This digital shift has brought about previously unheard-of prospects for productivity and growth. However, it has also brought to the forefront an ever-looming menace: cyber threats. Since these dangers—from data breaches to ransomware attacks—have become powerful foes, businesses must give cybersecurity top priority. To navigate the perilous digital terrain successfully, investing in cybersecurity consulting services isn’t just an option; it’s an imperative. Come on, let’s explore the different factors that support the notion that every company, while making crucial business decisions, should consider cybersecurity experts.   

We’ll also stress the advantages of using PeoplActive’s cyber security consulting services to protect your business.

Why does your company require Cybersecurity Consulting Services?  

The Dynamic Cyber Threat Landscape   

The cybersecurity industry is always changing. Cybercriminals, driven by profit and an insatiable desire to exploit vulnerabilities, continuously evolve their tactics. What worked as a defense strategy last year might be woefully inadequate today. It is the job of cybersecurity consultants to remain at the forefront of these developments. They are prepared to react quickly and effectively to emerging threats because they keep a close watch on the changing danger landscape. In this regard, PeoplActive takes a proactive stance. Our team of specialists is committed to following the most recent developments, giving your company up-to-date threat intelligence and illuminating information to strengthen your digital defenses.  

Personalized Solutions for Specialized Businesses  

Just as no two fingerprints are identical, no two businesses are exactly alike. Their size, industry, range, and operating complexity vary. Off-the-shelf cybersecurity solutions usually fall short when it comes to satisfying an organization’s specific requirements. Here’s where the true strength of PeoplActive lies. We are aware of the value of knowledgeable cybersecurity solutions. Our experts thoroughly examine your particular risk profile and security needs to get the full picture. We develop bespoke cybersecurity plans that perfectly match the goals of your company using this data as a springboard. 

Navigating the Complex Web of Regulatory Compliance 

Numerous firms are subject to stringent legal guidelines that govern the security of personal data. These rules are subject to hefty penalties and other legal repercussions if they are broken. Whether it’s PCI DSS, GDPR, or another industry-specific compliance standard, cybersecurity experts are well-versed in its complexities. They act as your reliable guides through the maze of regulations, making sure that your company complies with them strictly. By hiring our Cyber Security Consulting services, you can certainly eliminate these worries and build a trustworthy reputation for your business among your customers. 

24/7 Monitoring and Rapid Incident Response 

Cyber threats don’t adhere to a 9-to-5 schedule; they can strike at any moment. This is the situation where 24-hour monitoring and quick event reaction are truly valuable. Cybersecurity professionals like PeoplActive offer clients continuous monitoring services that let them spot and fix issues right away. By following this approach, you can minimize the potential harm that a cyberattack can cause and run your business smoothly. 

A Long-term Cost-effective Approach 

When you initially invest in Cybersecurity Consulting Services it may appear as an additional financial burden to your organization, but this is where you need to make that one smart move and look at the long-term benefits of this investment. The upfront expenditures of cybersecurity consultancy may not even come close to covering the financial fallout from a successful cyberattack or a data breach. You may effectively protect your company from suffering significant financial losses and reputational damage by spotting and fixing vulnerabilities before they are used by unscrupulous actors. We are an excellent partner in your cybersecurity journey since we get this all-encompassing approach to cost-effectiveness. 

 Safeguarding Reputation and Trust 

Cybersecurity can have an impact on many different companies. Once your clients stop having faith in your company’s ability to protect their private information and sensitive data, it may be challenging to win them back. We recognize how crucial it is for you to control the industry reputation of your business. With the help of our cyber security consulting services, you may build a solid cybersecurity posture as well as a reputation as a trustworthy company. In an increasingly congested industry, the trust you establish through proactive cybersecurity measures can provide business with a significant competitive edge. 

Also Read: The Battle Against IoT Cyber Threats 

How PeoplActive helped an Australian Healthcare Giant? 

An Australian Infection Prevention Company sought cybersecurity consulting services to fortify their virtual fortress against cyber threats. 

Challenges faced  

• A thorough review of HIPPA/GDPR policies  
• Validating IT procedures to ensure they align with HIPAA/GDPR requirements. 

• Need to develop new procedures to address identified gaps 
• Need guidance to determine the necessary security practices for risk assessment 
• Assist with cyber security assessment 
• Support in creating ISO roadmap and certification documentation with ISMS governance 
• Aid team members in ISO certification and addressing Corl gap remediation 

Solutions offered 

• Ensure HIPAA/GDPR policies meet current compliance standards 
• Aligning IT procedures with HIPAA/GDPR requirements 
• Developing new procedures to bridge compliance gaps 
• Guiding security practices for risk assessment and incident management 

• Assisting with cyber security assessment and auditing policy development 
• Creating an ISO roadmap and implementing certification documentation 
• Regularly revisiting policies to ensure compliance 
• Supporting ISO certification and gap remediation efforts 

PeoplActive’s partnership with the Australian Healthcare Giant exemplifies the power of expert cyber security consulting. 

Also Read: What Are the Different Roles in Cybersecurity and Which Expert Do You Need 

Why PeoplActive Cybersecurity Consulting Services Stand Out? 

PeoplActive stands out as the best choice for protecting your company in a world where demand for cybersecurity expertise is at an all-time high.

Here are the key factors that set us apart: 

1. Exceptional Expertise: The team at PeoplActive comprises seasoned professionals with a wealth of experience in cybersecurity. Our in-depth knowledge and proactive approach make us an invaluable asset in the fight against cyber threats. 
2. Cutting-edge Technology: PeoplActive leverages the latest cybersecurity technologies and tools to provide our clients with the highest level of protection. We stay ahead of emerging threats through continuous innovation. 
3. Comprehensive Services: From risk assessments and strategy development to 24/7 monitoring and incident response, PeoplActive offers a comprehensive suite of cybersecurity services tailored to your unique needs. 
4. Proven Track Record: With a history of successfully safeguarding businesses across various industries, PeoplActive has earned a reputation for excellence in the cyber security consulting realm. 
5. Client-Centric Approach: We place clients at the center of our operations. We work closely with you to understand your specific needs and develop solutions that align with your business goals. 
6. Long-term Partnership: Rather than offering quick fixes, PeoplActive focuses on building long-term cybersecurity partnerships. We are committed to your ongoing protection and adapt to evolving threats. 

Investing in cyber security consulting services is no longer a choice but a necessity for businesses in the digital age. The dynamic threat landscape, the need for tailored solutions, compliance with regulatory standards, 24/7 monitoring, long-term cost-effectiveness, employee education, and reputation management all emphasize the critical role of cybersecurity consulting. PeoplActive’s cyber security consulting services not only encompass all these aspects but excel in them. By hiring PeoplActive’s Cybersecurity Consulting Services, you don’t just invest in cybersecurity; you invest in the future security and success of your business. Don’t wait for a cyberattack to strike; take proactive measures today with PeoplActive and fortify your digital fortress. 

 

As cybercrime continues its relentless rise, businesses in every sector face a pressing need to hire cyber security developers and professionals to safeguard their networks, systems, and data from potential threats. However, with various types of cybersecurity roles available, determining which cybersecurity expert to hire can be a challenging task.  

In this blog, we will simplify this process by exploring the diverse world of cybersecurity professionals. By understanding the unique skill sets each role demands, you will be better equipped to make informed decisions and fortify your organization against the ever-evolving landscape of cyber risks. Let’s embark on this crucial journey together to secure your business’s future in an interconnected world.

What makes Cybersecurity crucial in today’s world?

Whether you operate a small enterprise or a large corporation, chances are that you heavily depend on digital solutions to store, organize, and retrieve sensitive business-related data. Such information may encompass various sensitive elements, including but not limited to:

• User credentials (usernames and passwords) 
• Financial details (banking information) 
• Personal identification data (social security numbers) 
• Payment card particulars (credit card information)
• And a plethora of other sensitive data.

By implementing effective cybersecurity measures, you safeguard crucial information from falling into the hands of malicious hackers who seek to exploit it. However, not all cybersecurity analysts possess the same skill sets and expertise. So, how do you determine the specific experts you should bring onboard to strengthen your defense? While your hiring requirements are unique to your business, there are several types of cybersecurity professionals that every company should consider. Let’s explore these essential roles and the value they bring to bolstering your cybersecurity strategy.

Top Cybersecurity Roles  

For organizations seeking an impenetrable shield against cyber threats, hiring Cyber Security Experts is paramount. These top cybersecurity roles represent key players in safeguarding businesses from the ever-growing menace of cyberattacks. With their specialized expertise and unique responsibilities, these skilled professionals serve as an essential line of defense, protecting valuable assets and sensitive information from malicious actors. 

Role 1: Cybersecurity Analysts 

Why Should You Hire Cybersecurity Analysts? 

• Detection and Response: Cybersecurity analysts serve as the first line of defense against an ever-growing array of cyber threats. Their primary responsibility is to continuously monitor networks, systems, and applications to detect any suspicious activities or security breaches. With the “2022 Cyber Threat Report” by Accenture reporting a staggering 125% increase in cyberattacks in the past year, hiring cybersecurity analysts ensures you have a dedicated team of professionals ready to swiftly identify threats and respond with effective countermeasures. 

• Preventing Significant Damages: The same report highlights that a remarkable 87% of cyberattacks were blocked at an early stage, showcasing the indispensable role played by cybersecurity analysts in preventing significant damage to your organization. By employing cybersecurity analysts, you strengthen your ability to detect and neutralize threats before they escalate. 

Role 2: Penetration Testers (Ethical Hackers) 

The Crucial Role of Penetration Testers 

• Proactive Vulnerability Assessment: The rise of cyber threats has prompted organizations to adopt a proactive approach to cybersecurity. Penetration testers, often referred to as ethical hackers, simulate real-world attacks to identify vulnerabilities before malicious actors can exploit them. The “2023 Cybersecurity Insights” by Cybersecurity Ventures reveals that 70% of organizations now conduct regular penetration tests, a significant increase from 56% in the previous year. Hiring penetration testers allows you to discover and patch critical vulnerabilities, thereby averting potential security disasters. 

• Averting Security Disasters: By identifying and addressing vulnerabilities proactively, penetration testers play a crucial role in preventing security incidents that could otherwise lead to data breaches, financial losses, and reputational damage. 

Also Read: Phishing Attacks Targeting Cloud Services and SaaS Platforms 

Role 3: Security Engineers 

Why Should You Hire Security Engineers? 

• Strengthening Digital Infrastructure: With the rapid adoption of cloud services and digital transformation, security engineers have become indispensable in strengthening an organization’s security infrastructure. The “State of Cybersecurity 2023” report by PwC indicates that 78% of companies have increased their investment in security engineers to protect their digital assets. Hiring security engineers ensures your organization is well-equipped to defend against cyber threats and can maintain business continuity. 

• Protecting Digital Assets: Security engineers play a vital role in designing, implementing, and managing security solutions to safeguard your organization’s digital assets. Their expertise in configuring firewalls, encryption technologies, and other security tools fortifies your defenses against potential cyberattacks. 

Role 4: Incident Response Specialists 

Why Should You Hire Incident Response Specialists? 

• Effective Breach Management: The dynamic nature of cyber threats demands a well-defined incident response plan. The “2023 Data Breach Investigations Report” by Verizon revealed that 73% of data breaches were financially motivated, while 10% were driven by espionage. Hiring incident response specialists ensures you have professionals who can effectively manage and contain breaches before significant damage occurs. 

• Swift Identification and Response: The same report highlighted that 75% of breaches took days or longer to discover, further underscoring the need for well-trained specialists who can swiftly identify and respond to threats. Incident response specialists can help minimize the impact of potential breaches through swift and efficient actions.

Role 5: Security Consultants 

Benefits of Hiring Security Consultants? 

• Expert Guidance: As businesses grapple with the complexities of cybersecurity, many are turning to external security consultants for expert guidance. The “2023 Cybersecurity Trends Report” by EY stated that 82% of organizations engaged security consultants to assess their security strategies and protocols. Hiring security consultants ensures your organization benefits from objective assessments and actionable recommendations. 

• Assessing Security Strategies: Security consultants bring an unbiased perspective and a wealth of experience to your cybersecurity strategy. They can help your organization identify strengths and weaknesses in its current approach, aligning your security efforts with industry best practices. 

Role 6: Security Operations Center (SOC) Analysts 

Why Should You Hire Security Operations Center (SOC) Analysts? 

• Real-Time Monitoring: SOC analysts are responsible for real-time monitoring of an organization’s security infrastructure, including network devices, servers, and endpoints. They use advanced security tools and technologies to detect and respond to security incidents as they happen. 

• Incident Triage and Escalation: SOC analysts play a pivotal role in incident triage, assessing the severity of security events and escalating critical incidents to higher-level security teams for immediate attention. Their swift actions can help prevent major security breaches. 

• Threat Intelligence Analysis: SOC analysts analyze threat intelligence data to stay abreast of emerging cyber threats and trends. By proactively adopting security measures based on this intelligence, they bolster an organization’s defenses against evolving threats. 

Role 7: Cybersecurity Architects 

Why Should You Hire Cybersecurity Architects? 

• Creating Comprehensive Security Blueprints: Cybersecurity architects design and build a comprehensive security framework that aligns with your organization’s specific needs and compliance requirements. 

• Ensuring Scalability and Flexibility: They ensure that security measures are scalable and adaptable to accommodate future technological advancements and business growth. 

Also Read: Approaches in Network Security for Businesses 

Role 8: Threat Intelligence Analysts 

Why Should You Hire Threat Intelligence Analysts? 

• Proactive Threat Monitoring: Threat intelligence analysts specialize in monitoring and analyzing emerging cyber threats and trends. By continuously tracking the cyber landscape, they can provide your organization with early warnings and proactive strategies to counter potential attacks. 

• Strategic Decision-Making: These analysts offer critical insights to help leadership teams make informed decisions about cybersecurity investments, resource allocation, and risk management. 

Why is it so hard to hire cyber security developers? 

In today’s digital age, hiring cybersecurity developers has become a formidable task, with the ever-increasing demand for skilled professionals in the face of an evolving threat landscape. The scarcity of qualified candidates with up-to-date knowledge and technical expertise only adds to the challenge. But fear not, at PeoplActive, we understand the critical importance of assembling a top-notch cybersecurity team. Our hand-picked professionals come with a proven track record in countering cyber risks and securing organizations’ most valuable digital assets. 

With the right cybersecurity team in place, your organization can confidently navigate the complex digital landscape, protecting what matters most. Don’t compromise on security – connect with PeoplActive today and hire a cyber security expert from our 4000+ pre-vetted professionals to fortify your organization’s defense against cyber threats. Together, let’s build a fortified shield against the ever-evolving landscape of cyber risks, ensuring your business thrives safely in the digital world.

Healthcare cybersecurity has become an increasingly important issue in recent years as the healthcare industry has become more reliant on technology to store and manage sensitive patient information. Healthcare organizations have become prime targets for cybercriminals looking to steal valuable data and disrupt healthcare operations. Therefore, it is crucial to strengthen defenses against cyber-attacks to ensure patient safety and maintain the integrity of healthcare systems.

The healthcare industry has become a prime target for cyber attacks due to the high value of patient data. Healthcare organizations store vast amounts of sensitive patient data, including personal identification information, medical records, and financial information. This data can be used for identity theft, insurance fraud, and other malicious activities. Cybercriminals can also disrupt healthcare operations, causing significant harm to patients and the healthcare system.
PeoplActive is an ISO 27001:2013 certified leading tech hiring platform. By utilizing an exclusive network of 4000+ Silicon Valley calibre tech talent specialized in 100+ in-demand IT skills, it was pretty easy for businesses to hire game-changing engineers and developers in just 48 hours. So, if you want to accelerate your business, schedule a quick call with our experts now.

The Vital Role of Cybersecurity in Modern Healthcare

The healthcare industry has become increasingly reliant on technology to store and manage sensitive patient data. Electronic health records (EHRs), medical devices, and other healthcare systems store vast amounts of patient data, including personal identification information, medical histories, and financial information. This data is valuable to cybercriminals, who can use it for identity theft, insurance fraud, and other malicious activities. Additionally, cyber attacks can disrupt healthcare operations, causing harm to patients and the healthcare system.

Healthcare organizations must prioritize cybersecurity to protect patient data and maintain the trust of their patients. A cyber attack can cause significant harm to patients, including exposure to sensitive health information, medical errors, and delayed treatment. Additionally, healthcare organizations may face legal and financial consequences, damage to their reputation, and loss of patient trust in the event of a cyber attack.

The healthcare industry’s reliance on technology has made it vulnerable to cyber-attacks. Healthcare organizations use a variety of systems, such as electronic health records (EHRs), medical devices, and mobile devices, to store and manage patient data. These systems are connected to the internet and can be accessed remotely, making them vulnerable to cyber-attacks. Additionally, many healthcare organizations lack the resources and expertise to adequately protect their systems from cyber threats.

Some best practices for healthcare cybersecurity

Therefore, healthcare organizations must take steps to strengthen their defenses against cyber attacks.

The following are some best practices for healthcare cybersecurity:

Conduct Risk Assessments

Healthcare organizations should conduct risk assessments regularly to identify vulnerabilities in their systems. Risk assessments can help healthcare organizations identify potential threats and vulnerabilities, evaluate the likelihood and impact of a cyber attack, and prioritize their cybersecurity efforts. Risk assessments should be conducted regularly and should be updated as new threats emerge.

Develop and Implement a Cybersecurity Plan

Healthcare organizations should develop and implement a cybersecurity plan that outlines the organization’s policies, procedures, and guidelines for protecting patient data. The cybersecurity plan should include procedures for detecting and responding to cyber-attacks, as well as contingency plans for restoring operations in the event of a cyber attack.

Train Employees on Cybersecurity

Healthcare organizations should provide regular cybersecurity training to their employees to ensure they are aware of the risks of cyber attacks and how to protect patient data. Training should include information on how to identify and report potential security incidents, as well as best practices for securing devices and data.

Encrypt Data

Healthcare organizations should encrypt patient data to protect it from unauthorized access. Encryption is the process of converting data into code that can only be read with a decryption key. Encryption helps protect patient data in case of a breach, as the data cannot be read without the decryption key.

Implement Access Controls

Healthcare organizations should implement access controls to ensure that only authorized personnel can access patient data. Access controls can include password protection, two-factor authentication, and other security measures that restrict access to sensitive data.

Monitor Systems for Suspicious Activity

Healthcare organizations should monitor their systems for suspicious activity, such as unusual login attempts, data access, or data transfer. Monitoring can help identify potential security incidents and allow organizations to take action before a breach occurs.

Use Up-to-Date Software and Security Patches

Healthcare organizations should use up-to-date software and security patches to protect their systems from known vulnerabilities. Software vendors regularly release security patches that address known vulnerabilities, and healthcare organizations should install these patches promptly to reduce their risk of a cyber attack.

Conduct Regular Security Audits

Healthcare organizations should conduct regular security audits to evaluate the effectiveness of their cybersecurity efforts. Security audits can help identify vulnerabilities that may have been missed in previous risk assessments and help organizations prioritize their cybersecurity efforts.

Develop Incident Response Plans

Healthcare organizations should develop incident response plans that outline the organization’s procedures for responding to a cyber attack. The incident response plan should include procedures for notifying patients, law enforcement, and other stakeholders.

Wrapping it up

In today’s digital age, cybercrime is an ever-evolving threat that can bring even the mightiest of companies to their knees. The stakes are high, and all it takes is one vulnerability for the entire organization to crumble. But fear not, for there is a solution – a Cyber Security Ninja. These experts are trained to detect and neutralize cyber threats before they can wreak havoc on your company. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Hire a Cyber Security Expert within 48 hours to safeguard your business and protect it from the dangers of the digital world.

Take Actions Immediately!

According to projections, the size of the Middle East Cyber Security Market will increase from USD 20.3 billion in 2022 to USD 44.7 billion by 2027, expanding at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 17.1% throughout the forecast period.

The growing sophistication of cyberattacks across heavy sectors to result in financial and reputational losses, strict government restrictions, and cyberattacks due to expansion of the digitalization are anticipated by the major market drivers.

The necessity to take the appropriate precautions in advance for ensuring the entire security posture and technological advancement in cloud and IoT has bolstered potential use cases across sectors.

Cyber attack is a global phenomenon that continues rising in tandem with the ICT industry’s rapid expansion; they are now at such a high level that both governments and individuals must work together to combat them. Cybercrime has evolved into well-organized networks with advanced attack techniques, and cyberattacks have grown to represent the kinds of hazards that a true war may bring; as MENA countries rapidly digitize their economies and their reliance on information technology grows.

The MENA region has recently grown more and more popular as a target for cyber attackers. Along with other crucial businesses, hackers concentrate on high-value government sectors (such as oil and gas). MENA regions are investing more money in the ICTs sector, social infrastructure, economic sector, and schools and hospitals, which are now entirely Internet-based. ICTs have currently taken on a crucial role in both domestic and international security structures in the MENA Region, underscoring the urgent need for significant advancements in cybersecurity there.

Also Read: ZERO TRUST SECURITY : A New Perspective on Cybersecurity

Challenges of Cyber Security

Growth of Cyber Crime

According to a survey by Cybersecurity Ventures, the cost of cybercrime globally is expected to increase by 15% annually between 2021 and 2025 and could total $10.5 trillion annually. The growth can be linked to a sharp increase in the activity of government-backed organizations and cybercriminal gangs. The attack surface is growing concurrently as a result of the digital transformation processes sparked by the advancement of the digital environment.

Lack of skilled Cyber Security Experts

The greatest difficulty faced by Middle Eastern firms and others is the shortage of people with the necessary cybersecurity capabilities, which is predicted to hinder the organizations’ capacity to satisfy constantly changing IT security requirements.

According to a CISCO report, in the Middle East, 94% of businesses acknowledged having experienced a cyber risk in the previous year. One of the biggest challenges to maintaining cybersecurity is the absence of security personnel, which is reported in the same report to affect 25% of firms in the Mena region. 34% of Middle Eastern breaches affected more than 50% of a company’s systems, while 58% of Middle Eastern businesses had to handle an outage lasting more than five hours in the previous year as a result of a breach. These figures show that businesses in the Mena region are hiring security experts that are ill-equipped to recognize and analyze these cutting-edge risks when confronted with a cyberattack.

The growth of the Dark Web

The massive increase in criminal behavior on the dark web in recent years, especially with the outbreak of the pandemic, is a significant issue and highlights how crucial it is to conduct threat intelligence operations in these hidden areas of the Internet.

New Cyber Attack Tactics

Trends like the emergence of new types of social engineering organizations must stay up with new and emerging attack scenarios and share this knowledge with their personnel.

One type of phishing that has witnessed rapid growth recently is so-called callback phishing, a technique that combines classic email-based phishing with voice-based phishing and is used to hack into businesses’ systems and spread malware, such as ransomware, on their networks.

Security in the Crypto Systems

Consumers, companies, and governments are all discovering new applications for Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies and so are Cyber Criminals. Cyberattacks and cryptocurrency scams targeting different participants in the crypto ecosystem have exposed the industry’s susceptibility to hacks. It is clear why security-related issues in the bitcoin industry frequently make the news.

Also Read: Top 10 Considerations in Cybersecurity Risk Management

Final Words

MENA is an acronym that refers to both the Middle East and North Africa. The fast development of technology and network infrastructure has increased cyber security risks, which now pose a danger to all industries in MENA countries. Internet usage has grown significantly in the MENA region over the past ten years, but there has been little knowledge of cyber security risks. As a result, all MENA organizations have seen a high rate of cyberattacks, with significant economic and political consequences. To handle all the issues posed by cyber risk, it is essential to upgrade the network infrastructure and establish regulatory frameworks to control the use of cyberattacks in the area.

Shield your company from data breaches with PeoplActive – Cybersecurity consulting service. We build full security plans and provide ongoing guidance to eliminate vulnerabilities and keep your company protected.