Both IT security and cyber security are concerned with keeping your computer systems and data safe and secure. Yet there is a difference between IT security and cyber security. In this post we’ll explain the key differences, and explore how you can ensure your business is fully protected against cyber attacks.
If you want to discuss your cyber security risks, we have a team of experts on hand to help. Call us on 0208 290 9080 or email us at cyber@anthonyjones.com.
What is IT Security?
IT security aims to ensure that your data can only be accessed and used by individuals with the proper authorisation. IT security tends to focus on the systems used to store and transmit data – computers, laptops, tablets, smartphones, hard-drives, USB sticks, and so on.
The aim of IT security is to set policies to control who can access these devices. This might include password protection, two-set authentication, and regulations about taking devices out of the workplace.
IT security teams will also monitor systems and networks for threats, with policies and procedures in place to help the business respond to any risks.
What is Cybersecurity?
While IT security is chiefly concerned with the systems used to store and transmit data, cybersecurity is concerned with the data itself. There will be some overlap in the techniques used by IT security and cybersecurity teams, including setting policies for password use, two-step authentication, and others measures to ensure that only authorised individuals can access business data.
But cybersecurity teams might also verify and enforce software updates, advise on the use of firewalls and antivirus protection, and provide ongoing training to staff across the organisation in understanding the risks of cyberattacks.
Cybersecurity teams will also devise and implement cyberbreach response policies and procedures. This way, if a business ever falls victim to a cyberattack, the cybersecurity team will be primed to respond in such a way as to minimise the damage to the business’s data, integrity, and reputation.
IT Security vs. Cybersecurity – It’s Not an Either/Or!
It’s not a question of whether you need IT security or cybersecurity. There’s no question about it: You need both.
All businesses are vulnerable to cyberattacks. Indeed, the evidence shows that cybercriminals are more likely to target smaller businesses over larger businesses.
One reason for this is that cybercriminals know that many smaller businesses lack the resources to implement appropriate cybersecurity measures. So in the event of, for example, a ransomware attack, small businesses are more likely to pay – as they may feel that they have no alternative.
Protect Your Business from Cyber Attacks
If you’re aware of the risks of cyberattacks, then you have a responsibility to cover your business against risks. A dedicated cybersecurity team is increasingly becoming a business essential. Yet so too is specialist cyber insurance.
In the event of a data breach, cyber insurance will cover your business’s liability as well as your ability to manage the impact on both your systems and finances.
If you have any questions about business insurance, or if you want to discuss whether cyber insurance is right for you, we have a team of experts ready to help. Call us on 0208 290 9080 or email us at cyber@anthonyjones.com.
