Cert NZ Top 10
Critical Controls
Defenses against cyber threats
In today’s digital age, cybersecurity is of paramount importance for businesses of all sizes. The CERT NZ Top 10 Critical Controls is a set of best practices designed to bolster your organisation’s defenses against cyber threats. By adhering to these controls, you can enhance your cybersecurity posture and better protect your business. Let’s take a closer look at each control and understand why they are crucial.
CERT NZ
Top 10 Critical Controls
Patch your software and systems
Regularly updating and patching your software and systems is vital to close security vulnerabilities. Failure to do so can leave your organization exposed to known threats.
Implement multi-factor authentication and verification
Multi-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide multiple forms of verification, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.
Provide and use a password manager
Password managers help generate and store complex, unique passwords, reducing the risk of password-related breaches.
Configure logging and alerting
Properly configured logging and alerting systems can help you detect and respond to security incidents in real-time, minimizing potential damage.
Asset Lifecycle Management
Understanding and managing the lifecycle of your assets ensures that you have control over all devices and software, reducing the risk of unaccounted vulnerabilities.
Implement and test backups
Regularly backing up your data and systems is your safety net in case of a cyberattack or data loss. Regular testing ensures data recovery when needed.
Implement Application Control
Controlling the applications running on your systems helps prevent unauthorized software and malware from compromising your environment.
Enforce the principle of least privilege
Limiting user access to only what is necessary minimizes the risk of insider threats and unauthorized system changes.
Implement network segmentation
Separating your network into segments can contain and mitigate the impact of a security breach, preventing lateral movement by attackers.
Set secure defaults for macros
Secure macro settings reduce the risk of malicious code execution in documents and emails.
Following these critical controls is essential for your business’s security. They not only help protect sensitive data and systems but also safeguard your reputation and financial well-being. Cyber threats are constantly evolving, making adherence to these controls an ongoing process to stay one step ahead of potential threats.
At IT First Responder, we specialize in helping businesses implement and maintain these controls. Contact us today to fortify your cybersecurity defenses and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a secure digital environment. Your business’s security is our top priority.