Here's how you can proactively protect against future cybersecurity threats.

Regular Audits: Conduct periodic risk assessments to identify potential vulnerabilities in your systems. This includes evaluating both internal and external threats. Threat Intelligence: Stay updated on emerging threats and vulnerabilities in your industry. Utilize threat intelligence feeds and services to anticipate potential risks. Personal Experience: For instance, I’ve found that implementing regular vulnerability scans and penetration testing can reveal weaknesses that might not be obvious through standard security measures alone. This proactive approach allows you to address issues before they can be exploited.

When conducting a risk assessment, As a Penetration Tester, for networks and web applications security for a bank vs. a healthcare facility, a penetration tester should prioritize the following: For a Bank: Data Encryption, Network Segmentation, Web Application Security, and Fraud Prevention and prevention. ? Present assessment report to CISO and Management, to implement a security posture, remediate any current issues, and schedule periodic testing. For a Healthcare Facility: PHI Protection- with encryption and access controls, Medical Device Security, Web Application Security, Network Security, and Segmentation. ? Assure PHI's security and access align with HIPPA federal and state requirements. The report - used for Audit purposes

When discussing critical assets, we're talking about critical infrastructure, not only within industrial sectors but also concerning APIs and data. These are two distinct segments that require different approaches. In critical infrastructure, our primary concern is edge security, adhering to NIST standards, while also implementing network segmentation and controls. The focus here is on maintaining availability above confidentiality and integrity since this sector typically cannot afford downtime. On the other hand, in IT infrastructure, the main adversary is data loss or any issue that might halt essential services. This could involve any type of data that compromises the confidentiality and integrity of operations.

Developing strong security policies is essential for protecting against future cybersecurity threats. These policies should encompass password management, internet usage, and data handling, serving as rules of engagement for navigating the digital world. By establishing clear guidelines, you promote safe practices and create barriers that make it more challenging for cyber threats to penetrate your network. In Qseap Infotech, I learned the importance of implementing security policies when configuring VPNs and updating firewall rules, which helped reinforce secure data transfer and access. Regularly reviewing and updating these policies ensures they remain effective and relevant, fostering a security-conscious culture that minimizes risks.

A system being breached is only a matter of time, but a system that is regularly reinforced with security measures will be much harder to hack. Do you know the story of the hero Achilles chasing the tortoise? The tortoise starts ahead of Achilles, and as long as it keeps moving, Achilles will never be able to catch up.

When advising a company regarding their need to update their software and systems regularly. A Penetration Tester should answer the question "WHY?" "Whats the advantage"? 1. Protection Against Vulnerabilities 2. Compliance with Regulations 3. Optimized System Efficiency 4. Compatibility with New Technologies 5. Improved Functionality 6. Resolution of Existing Issues 7. Increased System Reliability 8. Reduced Long-Term Costs: 9. Vendor Support 10. Avoiding End-of-Life Risks ? These ten reasons, I use to help structure my report. To "paint the picture" and push urgency. Remember patches and updates reduce vulnerabilities that can be exploited by attackers.

One thing I find helpful for employee training is simulated attacks. Sometimes you might not know how well employees understand the cybersecurity awareness training materials and their preparedness until they are tested. Also, having a clear communication channel for cybersecurity security policies and procedures and their consequences also is very vital.

As a Penetration Tester, we are sometimes tasked with conducting phishing campaigns. These Phishing Campaigns are designed to test the employee's acumen in identifying phishing emails. 85% of all breaches are attributed to an employee opening an email or clicking on an attachment. The importance of employee phishing training is essential and should be done every quarter.

Utilizing advanced security tools is crucial for swiftly detecting and responding to threats. Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) and Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS) function like high-tech burglar alarms for your network, monitoring for suspicious activity and taking action to prevent damage. Investing in these tools can significantly strengthen your cyber defenses. At TIAA, I worked with Splunk, a SIEM tool, to analyze threats and trigger processes, which emphasized the importance of real-time monitoring and response. By deploying IDS and IPS, you enhance your ability to identify and mitigate threats promptly, protecting your network from potential breaches and ensuring a robust security posture.

Stay updated with the latest cybersecurity trends and emerging threats by following industry news, participating in cybersecurity forums, and leveraging threat intelligence services. This knowledge can help you anticipate and prepare for new types of attacks.

As a Penetration Tester, of course, I am biased toward a company having continuous penetration and red-team testing. Truth be told, it is essential for companies to continuously have a penetration test completed regularly. With new vulnerabilities entering the cybersecurity realm daily. Companies need to be made aware and prepared to tackle these threats. Continuous Monitoring is defensive, Penetration Testing is offensive, and plays a vital part in hardening the security posture of a company. The two together can help protect assets and contribute to the Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability of all services and products.