Cybersecurity incidents continue to increase as cybercriminals become stealthier in how they gain access to confidential information. According to data in a study published by the Ponemon Institute and Keeper Security, the number of small- and medium-sized businesses that experienced a data breach in the previous 12 months increased from 54 percent in fiscal year 2018 to 63 percent in 2019.
Cybersecurity consulting is an effective way for companies in nearly all industries to protect their business and customers from the fallout of a cyber intrusion or attack.
Cybersecurity Consulting Overview
Cybersecurity consulting involves protecting client data from cybersecurity incidents that pose serious consequences, such as financial loss, reputation damage and extended periods of downtime. Cybersecurity consultants perform various tasks to achieve this goal, such as determining the best way to defend networks, devices, data, software and information systems.
A cybersecurity consultant’s role also involves performing vulnerability testing, such as security assessments and risk analysis. These tests help determine where weaknesses are present and how to best respond to gaps in security. Cybersecurity consultants also help businesses stay up-to-date with current security standards and the latest authentication protocols.
Once sufficient information has been collected through vulnerability testing and interviewing staff and department heads regarding security concerns, a capable security architecture is developed. Cybersecurity consulting services may also include follow-ups with clients as needed to ensure that their systems are continually updated and upgraded to ward against ever-evolving cybersecurity concerns.
Who Should Consider Cybersecurity Consulting Services?
Many businesses are under the false assumption that only major, multinational companies are at risk for cybersecurity attacks. Investing in cybersecurity consulting services is an essential component of a modern business model. A reputable cybersecurity consulting firm can help small and large businesses alike save time and money by protecting against costly threats and becoming more efficient overall.
While all businesses should consider investing in cybersecurity consulting, those that need these services most of all include:
Small Businesses With No In-House IT Team
Most small businesses do not have the budget required to hire an in-house IT team. Hiring a team of in-house technicians results in more expenses than just salaries alone. It is also important to consider the time and money it takes to recruit and train these individuals and acquire the proper certifications for the job. Full-time employees must also be provided benefits that can range in cost. The expenses associated with replacing employees when they leave can also be significant.
From a cost and logistics perspective, outsourcing IT tasks to a cybersecurity consulting firm almost always wins. Reputable cybersecurity consulting teams are made up of highly knowledgeable and experienced professionals who specialize in different areas of cybersecurity. Having these professionals on standby can be highly valuable to small businesses who do not have an in-house IT team.
Businesses Who Need Additional Cybersecurity Measures
Even the most prepared businesses can sometimes experience obstacles when it comes to cybersecurity. Technology is constantly changing and evolving and it can be challenging to keep up. Some businesses may seek out the expertise of a cybersecurity consultant to ensure that their network and systems are protected against cyber threats.
Cybersecurity consulting firms provide services that may be outside the realm of what a business usually encounters. For example, a business may hire a cybersecurity consultant to perform a vulnerability assessment and penetration test. These tests should be performed regularly to identify, quantify and prioritize vulnerabilities within a system.
In some cases, a business may need help in certain areas of cybersecurity, such as backup and recovery. If a cyberattack should occur, having an adequate disaster recovery plan in place can minimize downtime and make it easier to recover stolen or corrupted data.
Businesses Who Were Cyber Attacked Recently
Malicious hackers attack every 39 seconds, or an average of 2,244 times per day, according to the University of Maryland. The impact of a cybersecurity attack on a business can be significant.
Businesses may experience reputational damage as many people do not want to do business with a company that has been breached. A business may also encounter financial losses and monetary penalties if it failed to comply with data protection legislation prior to the breach.
Cybersecurity consulting services can help businesses who recently experienced cyberattacks by identifying how the attack occurred and how to resolve these gaps in security.
Reach Out To An Experienced Managed Service Provider
Weaknesses in information security can put businesses at risk for cyberattacks, thus threatening their profitability and exposing their company to fines from regulatory bodies. Cybersecurity consulting services can provide businesses with continuous security assurance. Learn more about cybersecurity consulting services or schedule a consultation with an experienced managed service provider by contacting the IT experts at SeaGlass Technology.