Sounds a bit like an Enid Blyton review, doesn’t it?
It’s actually our review of a really critical cybersecurity framework, that any managed IT provider worth their salt should be utilising. Don’t worry – we’re one of them!
Technology is our friend, when it’s managed correctly. But we know that when it’s not, we can leave ourselves exposed to risk of cyber threats. Yeah, Hi Optus. And Medibank. And Latitude…
So what can you do to reduce the risk for your business? We advocate for the implementation of the Essential Eight framework.
What is the Essential Eight?
It’s a cybersecurity strategy designed to fortify your defences and protect against constantly evolving cyber threats.
The framework is fantastically comprehensive and was developed by the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC). It details and prioritises the strategies you should implement to mitigate cyber threats. They’re practical and align with global best practices, so are invaluable for Australian SMBs to adhere to.
Why is the Essential Eight important?
1. It’s proactive
The focus is on preventative measure rather than reactive fixes after an issue has occurred. This means you are better placed to avoid cybercriminals and reduce the risk of breaches and the impact of those on your business.
2. It’s customiseable
With all businesses facing unique challenges in cybersecurity, the framework allows you to tailor measures to your specific needs. This means strategies implemented can align seamlessly with your organisation’s structure, processes and current technologies.
3. It’s compliant
Many insurers and certifiers will actually require this framework to be implemented in your business. Have you spoken to your broker about this detail recently? We highly recommend you do so. By following the framework, we can adhere to your industry standards and regulations. Showing that you take this seriously will pay dividends in the trust build with your clients and network of stakeholders.
4. It’s holistic
The Essential Eight is like a broad spectrum sunscreen. There’s features that tackle a variety of issues, from malware prevention to secure network configurations. By taking a holistic approach, you’re safeguarding against more potential threats and your defense mechanism is more robust.
Why does Xenex Systems think the Essential Eight is Excellent?
We love what we do, but we really have seen the worst of things – in particular coming in to clean up the mess where businesses haven’t taken their cyber security seriously. We’re big advocates for this framework because:
1. It’s Australian-Centric
Developed by a true-blue government agency, the ACSC, it’s been genuinely designed to enhance the cybersecurity armour of Australian organisations. It means the strategies we’re most comfortable and experienced in are those that have been recommended within the framework.
2. There’s a focus on continuous improvement
Hackers don’t sit still. Once a crack is filled, they’ll be swarming to find and exploit the next one. But the Essential Eight framework focuses on this ever-evolving landscape and promotes a culture of continuous improvement. Businesses are encouraged to stay vigilant about their measures and update their strategies regularly. Doing so keeps your defences strong and current, plus we get to geek out on sharing the latest and greatest developments with you!
3. It’s proven to be effective
The Essential Eight is built off learnings from real life incidents. The ACSC analysed an array of situations that went well and also poorly to formulate the framework and there have since been plenty of case studies highlighting its success in preventing incidents as well as minimising the impact where they have occurred. We get to hang our hat on a framework that works, so our reputation stays clean in the work we do with you.
So, is your business following the Essential Eight framework? It might be worth scouting out your trusted advisors to check whether you should be, and when you’re ready to tick that box – we’re here to help.
To learn more about how you can be sure you’re using technology for smarter business, drop us a line for a chat or free audit. We’re excellent too.