1. Perceptions become facts, trust erodes further, and cybersecurity programs are less successful than they could be. Conversely, if threats are documented frequently, business leaders may decide to reflexively over-spend on new technologies without realizing that other non-technical remedies keep data and other corporate assets safe. In this article, we explore four common myths that managers tend to believe about in cybersecurity, and suggest everyday actions business and IT managers can take to create greater company-wide transparency and understanding of the most effective technologies and processes to protect critical business information. When discussing which initiatives to invest in and which to stop, business and cybersecurity professionals can use a risk categorization model with four threat levels, from minor to severe.The cybersecurity team can then engage in discussions with the C-suite about the most critical data assets associated with each part of the business value chain, the systems on which they are located, the controls implemented, and exchanges for maintaining higher priority. This way, they can make clear decisions about which tools to buy and add to existing cybersecurity architecture, which systems to upgrade, and which ones to be retired. Regardless of the metrics used, it is essential to have a comprehensive, formal approval process for planning and reviewing cybersecurity-related capital expenditures. Priorities should be determined from a business perspective rather than a system perspective. CIOs and chief security officers should collaborate with the business to identify the assets that can generate the company’s most significant amount of value and develop a cybersecurity roadmap accordingly. The roadmap will also define roles and responsibilities and mechanisms by which leaders in the C-suite and cybersecurity function can track progress against the plan and revise accordingly. Poor communication accounts for a large part of the lack of trust between business leaders and cybersecurity function members. Despite Jargon, all of the tech and business professionals in the room understand how critical it is to build a robust cybersecurity program, given the potential bottom-line implications if corporate assets are compromised. Finding a shared vocabulary is essential to ensure clear communication between the C-suite and the cybersecurity function and raise awareness of potential cyber threats and risks among employees across the company. It does this to show that cybersecurity is part of the business process and can help increase revenue. At one company we observed, the cybersecurity team shared a simple breakdown of a typical security incident exercise with senior leaders.
  2. Likewise, a computer virus interferes with your device’s performance by replicating itself and spreading the entire system. A virus can damage programs, delete files, and reformat or delete your hard drive, causing performance degradation and even a complete crash of your system. Hackers can also use viruses to gain access to your personal information to steal or destroy your data. There are several ways a computer can be infected, and most of them involve the intentional or unintentional downloading of infected files. Even connecting to an infected external drive can infect your system with malware. While hackers are continually creating more advanced viruses, there are several ways to protect your device and files. The best solution for a virus is to counter it first using antivirus protection and anti-spyware software. In addition to keeping these applications up to date, it’s essential to regularly update your operating system and ensure your browser’s security settings are up to date. Use a security tool to evaluate your device’s vulnerabilities. Be very careful while downloading software. Many connect using public Wi-Fi in cafes, restaurants, or shops, but these unsecured networks can leave your phone, tablet, or computer vulnerable to viruses.If your only option is public Wi-Fi, use a VPN to protect your device and data better. If you think your computer is infected, start by performing a full system scan using your antivirus and anti-malware program. If you cannot delete the virus or infected files from your software, try restoring your computer to an earlier backup before you start having problems. Another strategy to try is to delete all temporary files on your computer.If your computer is down and prevents you from accessing files for deletion, you can try booting it in safe mode. In some cases, you may need to reinstall your operating system. If you are not familiar with how to do this, take your device to a local store that offers computer services and look at an expert. As a result, prevention and education is the most effective way to prevent your computer from getting infected.