How to Bulletproof Your Computer- 5 Steps to Protect Against Hackers

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You can never truly bulletproof your computer. If hackers really want to get in, unfortunately, they will… But that doesn’t mean efforts to enhance your cybersecurity are futile. On the contrary, fortifying your defences can significantly reduce the likelihood of successful attacks and minimise the damage should a breach occur. 

In this article, we provide the strategies your IT department should be taking to safeguard the security of your systems… Of course, if your IT team aren’t doing this for you and you’d like to be far more confident that your computers are being protected, let’s have a chat sometime very soon.

Building a Cybersecurity Fortress: Detailed Steps to Protect Your Computers

While no system can be made entirely invulnerable to cyberattacks, these five strategic layers of defence can significantly mitigate the risks. 

Step 1: Update and Patch Systems Consistently

Regularly updating and patching your systems is critical to protecting against vulnerabilities that hackers exploit.

• Configure all devices to automatically receive and install updates for operating systems, software applications, and security programs. 
• Establish routine, manual reviews of systems not supported by automatic updates.
• Ensure your update policy covers all layers of your IT infrastructure, from endpoint devices to server systems, including third-party applications which may not automatically update.

Step 2: Implement Comprehensive Use of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA is an effective security measure that requires users to provide multiple forms of verification before gaining access to systems.

• Deploy MFA across all critical systems, particularly those accessing sensitive data or control systems. This should include email accounts, network servers, and administrative controls.
• Choose MFA methods that align with your operational needs—options include SMS codes, authentication apps, or physical tokens- and ensure all users are trained how to use these tools effectively.

Step 3: Employ Advanced Encryption Techniques

Encryption is essential for protecting sensitive data, both stored and transmitted.

• Apply strong encryption protocols like AES-256 for data at rest and TLS 1.2 or higher for data in transit. 
• Audit your encryption strategies regularly to ensure they comply with current best practices.
• Assess all points where data is stored or transmitted; this includes employee devices, cloud storage solutions, and communications networks. 
• Ensure encryption is active and configured correctly at each point.

Book a comprehensive security audit with our experts to uncover any vulnerabilities and tighten your defences.

Step 4: Educate and Train Your Workforce

Continuous education and training on cybersecurity are vital in minimising human error- a major factor in security breaches.

• Implement a cybersecurity training program that includes regular updates on new threats, safe browsing practices, and secure data handling. 
• Make this training mandatory for all new hires and at regular intervals for all staff.
• Develop scenarios and simulations relevant to your business operations to engage employees effectively. 
• Use quizzes and tests to measure understanding and retention.

Step 5: Regular Security Audits and Penetration Testing

Regular audits and penetration testing are essential to identify and rectify vulnerabilities.

• Contract with external cybersecurity experts- like Operum Tech- to conduct annual security audits and penetration testing of your network.
• These should include comprehensive reviews of your security posture, penetration tests simulating an attack on your systems, and recommendations for tightening security based on the findings.

By maintaining diligence in these areas, you can build a defence that is tough to penetrate and capable of responding effectively to potential breaches.

Protect your business with a proactive approach. Contact Operum Tech today for a comprehensive cybersecurity assessment and tailored solutions to keep your data secure and your operations running smoothly.