Still Life, Clogging the System, All-Seeing Eyes, A Whole New World, The CTEM Lift, and Raising the Security Game. It's CISO Intelligence for Wednesday, 21st May 2025.
Raising the dead - sort of, the perils of perpetual firefighting, www: who's watching who? When Sci-Fi becomes reality, shifting paradigms, and the art of gatekeeping.
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Table of Contents
1. The Ghosts of Systems Past: Dealing with 'Dead Man's' Scripts
2. Government Downtime: The Ransomware Saboteur's Delight
3. The Peeping Tom Paradox: IoT Security Camera Woes
4. Quantum Computing: The Security Tsunami
5. Why CTEM is the Winning Bet for CISOs in 2025
6. How to Access Your Workspace Without Inviting Chaos: A Remote Access Policy Guide
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The Ghosts of Systems Past: Dealing with 'Dead Man's' Scripts
_Some things are better left in the past, except when they’re ticking time bombs in your infrastructure._
What You Need to Know
Legacy systems within your organization may be haunted by 'dead man's' scripts—forgotten scheduled tasks that pose significant security risks. As board members and executives, you are expected to allocate resources toward an audit of existing systems to identify and neutralize these vulnerabilities. Failure to act could leave your digital infrastructure exposed to exploitation.
CISO focus: Legacy System Security
Sentiment: Strong Negative
Time to Impact: Immediate
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Long forgotten yet still alive, scheduled tasks—dubbed "dead man's" scripts—can linger within legacy systems, silently threatening cybersecurity. Recently exposed in research findings, these scripts are ticking time bombs, each capable of compromising sensitive data and systems integrity if leveraged by cyber adversaries.
Unmasking the 'Dead Man'
At their core, 'dead man's' scripts are scheduled tasks in legacy systems that remain active long after their use-by date. In the best-case scenario, they are benign relics of outdated processes. But more commonly, they represent significant threats capable of facilitating unauthorized access or launching malware attacks.
Why Should You Care?
Amplified Vulnerability: These scripts often operate with privileged access, making them prime targets for exploitation.
Operational Oversight: Because they function in the background, they are rarely reviewed or updated, leaving them outside standard security protocols.
Integration with Modern Systems: The potential for these scripts to interact with current systems curates unique challenges, amplifying risks.
Cybersecurity Risks: A Closer Look
According to industry experts, ignoring these scripts could lead to substantial data breaches. For instance, they may serve as backdoors for attackers seeking network entry. Even more troubling, once inside, hackers can use them to escalate privileges, thus accessing more secure parts of the network.
Key risks associated include:
Data Breaches
Augmented Threat Vectors
Increased Cost for Remediation
Mitigation Strategies
1\. Comprehensive Audits
Perform thorough audits specifically aimed at identifying and analyzing all scheduled tasks, especially those within legacy systems. Update or eliminate those deemed risky.
2\. Implement Robust Documentation
Establish and maintain comprehensive documentation covering these tasks. Every scheduled script should have accompanying details, including purpose, permissions, and the date of the last update.
3\. Employ Advanced Monitoring Tools
Utilize state-of-the-art tools to track system activities in real-time, flagging anomalies that indicate foul play around your ‘dead man’s’ scripts.
Real-world Implications: Case Studies
Research has linked several high-profile breaches to neglected legacy processes. One notable incident involved a financial institution that overlooked a simple script, resulting in unauthorized data extraction by a former contractor. Had the scheduled tasks been regularly reviewed, this costly incident might have been avoided.
Final Thoughts: Raising the Dead
Leaving 'dead man's' scripts unchecked is akin to sleeping next to a ticking bomb. As technology continues to evolve, the integration of advanced security protocols within existing infrastructures becomes non-negotiable. Regularly examining and restructuring legacy systems is essential for a fortified cyber posture.
By prioritizing the evaluation and management of these scripts, organizations can deftly avoid becoming yet another cautionary tale in the rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape.
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Vendor Diligence Questions
1. How does your product assist in identifying and managing legacy system vulnerabilities, specifically forgotten scheduled tasks?
2. What monitoring capabilities do you offer for tracking legacy script activities?
3. How does your solution integrate with existing infrastructures to enhance security across outdated systems?
Action Plan
1\. Conduct System Audit
Initiate checks across all systems to identify forgotten scheduled tasks.
Document and risk-assess identified scripts
2\. Implement Monitoring Solutions
* Deploy comprehensive monitoring solutions capable of providing real-time alerts.
3\. Train IT Staff
* Ensure all team members are aware of the risks posed by forgotten tasks and are trained in identifying and mitigating these effectively.
4\. Regular Review and Updates
* Implement a regular review process and update the system documentation for all existing scripts.
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Source: Dead Man's Scripts: The Security Risk of Forgotten Scheduled Tasks in Legacy Systems
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Government Downtime: The Ransomware Saboteur's Delight
_An ounce of ransomware is worth a month of your time—if you're lucky._
What You Need to Know
Ransomware attacks are a growing menace, especially for government organizations, with each attack causing nearly a month of operational downtime. The cost isn't just measured in time but also in public trust and taxpayer dollars. Immediate action is required to bolster defenses, improve incident response, and engage with cybersecurity vendors to mitigate this cyber threat.
CISO Focus: Ransomware Preparedness and Incident Response
Sentiment: Strong Negative
Time to Impact: Immediate to Short Term
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Government Organizations Engulfed in Ransomware Woes
Hold onto your firewalls; ransomware attacks have become a monstrous drain on government organizations, each incident resulting in almost a month of downtime. Stopwatch in hand, IT departments find themselves racing against a relentless cyber onslaught, with operatives outmanoeuvring seasoned public sector defenses.
The Eye of the Storm: Ransomware's Immediate Impact
Uptick in Attacks: Government entities faced a pronounced surge in ransomware attempts in the past year, underscoring the sector's allure for digital saboteurs.
Downtime Devastation: According to Tripwire's latest report, government offices hobble through a staggering 25.7 days to recover from each ransomware strike. Such lengthy interruptions result not only in service disruption but also unquantifiable losses tied to sensitive data exposure and public trust erosion.
From Data Lockdown to Urban Gridlock
Critical Services Stalled: Interruptions affect everything from municipal services to critical infrastructure. Service delays lead to a secondary cascade of issues—delays in public works, stymied urban planning, and in the worst cases, compromised emergency response efforts.
Financial Black Hole: While the downtime costs are visible, more insidious financial demands stem from ransom payments, decryption costs, and enhanced cybersecurity measures post-attack.
Up Your Game: Strategies to Thwart Future Attacks
Proactive Cyber Hygiene: Rigorous patch management and a zero-trust approach should become default settings, reducing entry points and buffering against attack vectors.
Incident Response Enhancement: Government bodies must refine their incident response teams, drilling regularly to ensure swift containment and recovery during real-world attacks.
Invest in Awareness Training: Employee negligence often provides attackers with their ticket in. Ongoing training to recognize phishing attempts and suspicious activity could serve as that first line of defense.
CISO's Insight: Readying for the Cyber Battleground
The escalating ransomware threat demands that CISOs pivot from reactive stances to more proactive, preemptive postures. Government bodies, in particular, need astute cybersecurity leadership, capable of marshaling resources and intelligence promptly and effectively.
Sound the Alarm Early: Formulating Robust Policies
Threat Intelligence Integration: Leverage AI-driven threat intelligence to anticipate and counter emerging ransomware trends and actors.
Cross-Sector Collaboration: Encourage inter-agency and public-private partnerships to streamline information sharing and develop cohesive, multi-layered defense strategies.
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Vendor Diligence Questions
1. Defense Depth: What unique mechanisms do they offer to fortify the organization's defenses against ransomware?
2. Incident Response Speed: Can they demonstrate an incident response plan that aligns with our needs for rapid recovery and minimal downtime?
3. Holistic Approach: How comprehensive are their services in tackling ransomware from prevention to post-attack recovery?
Prepare your shields and fortify your digital realms because the ransomers are relentless, and neither time nor tide will wait in this cyber war.
Action Plan
1. Immediate Assessment: Conduct a vulnerability analysis across systems to identify immediate risk areas for ransomware attacks.
2. Training Intensification: Roll out an intensive employee awareness campaign focused on emerging phishing tactics likely to precede ransomware breaches.
3. Vendor Alignment: Review current partnerships to ensure vendors meet the organization's evolving needs for advanced threat detection and rapid incident response.
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Sources & Further Reading:
Tripwire: Government Organizations Lose Nearly a Month in Downtime for Every Ransomware Attack
Additional resources on ransomware trends and prevention strategies from leading cybersecurity publications.
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The Peeping Tom Paradox: IoT Security Camera Woes
_Big Brother may be watching, but who’s watching Big Brother?_
What You Need to Know
IoT security cameras, a mainstay of modern surveillance technology, are surprisingly vulnerable to cyber attacks. Hackers can exploit these vulnerabilities to breach networks and access sensitive data. Executive management must recognize these threats and prioritize the cybersecurity of IoT devices, ensuring protocols are upgraded and routinely tested. Immediate action is needed to enforce stricter security measures across all deployed devices.
CISO focus: IoT Security
Sentiment: Strong Negative
Time to Impact: Immediate
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IoT Security Cameras: An Open Door to Cyber Threats
As smart homes and offices increasingly rely on Internet of Things (IoT) devices, security cameras have taken center stage as both protectors and potential betrayers. Designed to enhance safety, these cameras can, ironically, introduce a host of vulnerabilities that potentially put any network at risk. This curious conundrum poses a significant challenge for organizations striving to ensure robust cybersecurity.
A Growing Threat Landscape
Urged by convenience, the adoption of IoT devices, including security cameras, has surged. The irony, however, is that these cameras often end up serving as gateways for cyber criminals. Vulnerabilities intrinsic to IoT devices are exacerbated by lax security measures, inadequate device management, and the absence of standardized protocols. As these vectors converge, they create an open invitation for cyber threats.
Common Vulnerabilities
1. Weak Credentials: Default user names and passwords often remain unchanged, offering hackers an easy entry point.
2. Unpatched Firmware: Regular updates are necessary but frequently overlooked, leaving devices susceptible to known exploits.
3. Insecure Networks: Many IoT devices operate on unsecured networks, rendering them vulnerable to attacks such as Man-in-the-Middle.
4. Inadequate Encryption: Data transmitted by these devices can be intercepted if not properly encrypted.
The Double-Edged Sword of Surveillance
Given the role of security cameras in protecting sensitive areas and data, they are often interspersed throughout high-risk environments, including corporate offices and critical infrastructure facilities. Herein lies the paradox: cameras intended to secure premises are increasingly seen as potential security liabilities. This dual role necessitates a reevaluation of current security postures surrounding IoT deployments.
Immediate Steps for Mitigation
Strengthen Access Controls: Enforce strong, unique passwords and incorporate multi-factor authentication.
Consistent Firmware Updates: Set automatic updates where possible and ensure timely application of patches.
Secure Network Protocols: Segregate IoT devices on separate networks and use VPNs for added security.
Comprehensive Monitoring: Deploy anomaly detection systems to promptly identify unauthorized access attempts or suspicious activity.
Still Room for Better Security: Closing the Lens
The conversation around IoT security is evolving, and organizations must not lag. While IoT devices offer remarkable advancements, their insecure implementation can nullify perceived benefits. Only by institutionalizing a culture of security-first can enterprises hope to navigate the increasingly hostile digital landscape without falling prey to surveillance-based exploits.
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Vendor Diligence Questions
1. What security protocols does the vendor implement to protect data transmission between IoT security cameras and servers?
2. How frequently does the vendor release firmware updates, and what is the protocol for informing users about critical security patches?
3. Does the vendor offer any built-in intrusion detection systems or recommend specific third-party applications to enhance device security?
Action Plan for Teams Reporting to the CISO
Conduct an Inventory: Identify all IoT security cameras within the organization’s network for comprehensive risk assessment.
Review Security Posture: Evaluate current security measures, identify vulnerabilities, and apply necessary patches immediately.
Implement Training Programs: Educate teams about the importance of IoT security and best practices for maintaining device safety.
Engage with Vendors: Collaborate with vendors to ensure devices comply with the latest security standards and obtain necessary support.
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Source: How IoT Security Cameras Are Susceptible to Cyber Attacks
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Quantum Computing: The Security Tsunami
_If you think "quantum" is just a state of mind, think again: it's the next cyber hurricane!_
What You Need to Know
The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has issued a Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) Migration Roadmap, outlining steps organizations need to take to prepare for the advent of quantum computers, which pose a significant threat to current encryption methods. Immediate preparation is essential, as the impact will be profound across cybersecurity infrastructure. Organizations are expected to assess their current cryptographic reliance and start planning their transition strategies immediately.
CISO focus: Cryptography, Future Threats, Risk Management
Sentiment: Strong Negative
Time to Impact: Mid-term (18-60 months)
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Preparing for Quantum Computing: A Security Tsunami in the Making
The NCSC’s recent release of its PQC Migration Roadmap is a clarion call for businesses globally. With quantum computers set to undermine current cryptographic systems, stakeholders must understand that this transition isn't just necessary; it's existential for cybersecurity.
The Quantum Threat
The leap from classical to quantum computing is gearing up to change the rules of the cybersecurity game. Quantum computers use qubits which, for complex mathematical problems, including those used in encryption, can perform simultaneous computations that classical computers cannot. When such systems become feasible, they will break traditional encryption algorithms like RSA, ECC, and even some variants of AES – the bedrock upon which secure internet communication is built.
According to the NCSC, quantum computing timelines are uncertain. However, the time to prepare is now. As quantum capabilities advance, malicious actors could one day possess the ability to harvest encrypted intelligence today, only to decrypt it years later when quantum technology is available. The scenario isn't science-fiction anymore; rather, it's an encroaching reality.
A Roadmap to the Quantum Frontier
The migration roadmap detailed by NCSC involves several pivotal phases:
1. Assessment and Understanding :
Organizations need to conduct extensive audits of their encryption infrastructure. Identify which systems currently depend on vulnerable algorithms.
2. Transition Planning :
Develop a comprehensive strategy to transition to quantum-resistant algorithms. It involves cryptographic agility, allowing systems to upgrade without redesign.
3. Implementation and Integration :
Start integrating quantum-safe algorithms into existing operations. This can include hybrid solutions that use both quantum-resistant and classical encryption in transition stages.
4. Continuous Review :
* Regularly review progress against the roadmap, adapt to new technological developments, and update strategies as more information about quantum attacks comes to light.
Industry Collaboration and Preparedness
Preparing for quantum impacts is not a solitary pursuit. The NCSC encourages collaboration across sectors and borders. This involves sharing insights, strategies, and successes. The cyber industry should also work closely with government entities to shape global standards for PQC.
The Current Cryptographic Landscape
The impact of quantum computing isn't confined to future scenarios. Organizations using interoperability standards and specialized devices that cannot be easily updated are particularly at risk. Additionally, industries with long-term data confidentiality needs, such as healthcare or defense, must prioritize quantum migration plans.
Quantum Computing's Implications on Cyber Policy
Global policy frameworks must adapt to quantum challenges. Key considerations include:
Defining new cryptographic standards and regulations.
Governing greenhouse gas emissions and resource consumption, as quantum computers are energy-intensive.
Setting ethical guidelines for quantum technology applications.
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Vendor Diligence Questions
1. How is your organization planning to adapt to quantum-resistant cryptography, and what timelines are projected for migration?
2. What measures are you implementing to ensure cryptographic agility within your IT infrastructure?
3. Can you demonstrate your current collaboration with industry experts or governmental bodies to anticipate and respond to emerging quantum threats?
Action Plan
1. Immediate Audit : Conduct a comprehensive review of all cryptographic dependencies and classify them based on exposure and urgency for replacement.
2. Training and Awareness : Educate key personnel about quantum computing implications and necessary skillsets for PQC adaptation.
3. Pilot Quantum-Resistant Technologies : Begin implementing and testing quantum-safe algorithms within confined environments before widespread rollout.
4. Strategic Partnerships : Forge alliances with industry leaders, tech innovators, and regulatory bodies focused on quantum threat mitigation.
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Source: Preparing for the Quantum Future: Insights from the NCSC’s PQC Migration Roadmap
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Why CTEM is the Winning Bet for CISOs in 2025
_Betting on cybersecurity like a pro, because staying secure isn’t a gamble!_
What You Need to Know
The importance of Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM) cannot be overstated as we approach 2025. CTEM strategies are rapidly becoming essential for organizations to proactively manage threats in an increasingly complex cyber landscape. As a board or executive management group, you must recognize CTEM’s critical role in strengthening your organization's cybersecurity posture, and oversee the allocation of resources towards these strategies. Your actionable engagement is crucial to integrating CTEM within your cybersecurity framework.
CISO focus: Cybersecurity Strategy Development
Sentiment: Strong Positive
Time to Impact: Immediate to Short term
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CTEM, a Game-Changer in Cybersecurity Strategy
As businesses digitize and migrate to cloud infrastructures, cybersecurity threats have intensified, both in scale and sophistication. Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM) has emerged as a cutting-edge solution signaling a proactive shift in organizational defense mechanisms by preemptively identifying vulnerabilities before adversaries can exploit them.
The Power of CTEM
* Continuous Monitoring : Unlike traditional, episodic approaches to threat management, CTEM involves continuous, 24/7 surveillance of potential security threats. This constant monitoring allows for real-time response to vulnerabilities as they appear.
* Holistic Approach : Instead of isolated security patches and updates, CTEM focuses on a holistic defense strategy. By evaluating infrastructure comprehensively, it ensures that each component interaction does not present a blind spot or create new vulnerabilities.
* Proactive Management : CTEM shifts organizations from reactive to proactive cybersecurity postures. It encourages anticipation of threats rather than waiting for breaches to occur before acting, saving significant resources and potential reputational damage.
CTEM in Action: Effectiveness and Efficiency
The effectiveness of CTEM is reflected in its capability to create resilient systems that not only fend off potential breaches but also maintain operational efficiency.
* Automated Threat Detection : By leveraging automated algorithms and artificial intelligence, CTEM can rapidly detect anomalies and patterns that suggest potential threats, slashing the time to response.
* Prioritization of Threats : The sheer volume of potential threats often overwhelms cybersecurity teams. CTEM assists in prioritizing risks based on severity and potential impact, ensuring that resources are focused on the most critical threats.
* Comprehensive and Adaptive Protocols : As cybersecurity threats evolve, so does CTEM. It facilitates adaptive protocols that shift in response to new insights and threat landscapes, maintaining robust defense capabilities.
Driving Business Success through CTEM
Besides fortifying defenses, CTEM indirectly drives business success by ensuring business continuity and protecting brand reputation. As cybersecurity breaches can cause significant disruptions, having a CTEM strategy assures stakeholders—internally and externally—that risks are managed effectively.
Emerging Trends and Addressing Challenges
While CTEM shows significant promise, several implementation challenges warrant attention:
* Integration Complexity : Implementing CTEM requires integration across various platforms and systems, demanding significant initial investment in time and resources.
* Data Overload Management : The continuous nature of CTEM produces vast amounts of data. Proper management systems need to be in place to process and analyze this data efficiently.
* Skilled Personnel Requirement : Employing CTEM necessitates cybersecurity personnel who are not only skilled but also keep pace with evolving technical knowledge.
The commitment to overcoming these challenges is essential for harnessing the full potential of CTEM strategies.
Great Success Stories are Built on CTEM Observations
As you assess your approach, remember that much like a grand poker game, cybersecurity is a matter of strategic anticipation. Doing nothing could leave you all in, unbeknownst to hidden threat exposures. Build upon CTEM insights to stay ahead of the cybersecurity curve and ensure long-term organizational resilience.
Call to Action for Board Members
In light of these insights, it is imperative that executive leadership fosters an environment supportive of CTEM integration. Providing adequate resources and ensuring accountability in the deployment of these strategies are vital steps toward a fortified cybersecurity posture.
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Vendor Diligence Questions
1. How do you integrate CTEM within existing cybersecurity frameworks and systems?
2. What are your most recent use cases demonstrating CTEM’s effectiveness in real-world scenarios?
3. How do you manage the data generated through CTEM processes to ensure actionable insights?
Action Plan
1. Assessment : Conduct a comprehensive audit of current threat exposure processes against CTEM criteria.
2. Resource Alignment : Allocate or reallocate resources to support the implementation of CTEM methodologies.
3. Training and Development : Initiate training programs for cybersecurity personnel focused on CTEM tools and strategies.
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Source: Why CTEM is the Winning Bet for CISOs in 2025
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How to Access Your Workspace Without Inviting Chaos: A Remote Access Policy Guide
_If doors only kept out the people you didn't like..._
What You Need to Know
With the rapid shift towards remote work, organizations must rethink their strategies to secure data accessed from outside traditional office walls. A robust remote access policy is essential to protect sensitive information and maintain operational integrity. The executive management is expected to ensure compliance with this policy by endorsing its creation and implementation, assigning relevant teams to develop and refine it. Your role is to prioritize security measures and support the required resource allocation to mitigate the risks associated with remote access.
CISO Focus: Remote Access Management
Sentiment: Neutral
Time to Impact: Immediate
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Streamlining Remote Access Without Unleashing the Hackathon
As remote work becomes a cornerstone of modern business operations, securing access points into corporate networks is more critical than ever. An effective remote access policy can make the difference between a seamless transition to virtual work environments and a digital free-for-all that jeopardizes data integrity. Let's wander through the meticulously crafted labyrinth where your organization's very security hangs by a (hopefully secure) thread.
The Pillars of a Remote Access Policy
* Define Who's In and Who's Out:
Clearly outline who is permitted remote access and under what conditions. Employees, contractors, and third parties may require access, but let’s ensure every gate-crasher is distinctly categorized. Role-based access control can be the knight’s sword you wield here.
Authentication: The Bouncer at Your Digital Door:
Two-factor authentication (2FA) isn’t just another buzzword—it's your primary protocol for verifying the access legitimacy. Passwords alone are the keys to a city, but they're also easily copied. Only true royalty should possess the second keycard.
Encryption: Your Digital Mossed Moat:
* Encrypt data in transit using protocols like TLS or IPSec. If your data streams can be read as easily as today’s news, let’s give them reason to sigh over indecipherable squiggles.
Outlining Device Management Protocols
* BYOD Policy: The Ever-Elusive Unicorn:
Welcome to the Bring Your Own Device circus! Lay down the law on personal device usage with clear guidelines. Specify operating systems, patch levels, and security software requirements. A rickety three-legged stool shouldn’t let your corporate secrets vault into a teetering abyss.
Remote Wipe: The Instant Clean-Up Crew:
* Develop a protocol for remote wiping of lost or stolen devices. Gone are the days when a thief only stole the purse and not your bank vault too. Legislation or magic wand? Your security team’s got it.
Monitoring and Logging
* Activity Logs: The Jailer’s Watch:
Ensure comprehensive logging of remote access activities to detect suspicious patterns. Call it snooping or saving skins, this is where anomalies meet their maker.
Regular Audits: The Cozy Tea with Checklists:
* Schedule regular audits to review access permissions and the general health of your defenses. This isn't time for napping on laurels; keep those laurels engaged and inquisitive.
Wrapping Up the Noble Quest
Hey, it’s not 2001 anymore! We’re in an era where remote work is part of the landscape, not an exception. But a world of possibility is also a world of risk. This remote access policy guide equips you with what you need to navigate securely—even while wearing pajamas.
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Vendor Diligence Questions
1. How does the vendor’s remote access solution enable multi-factor authentication?
2. What is the vendor's protocol for encrypting data in transit?
3. How frequently are security audits conducted, and can the vendor provide logs for external review?
Action Plan
1. Develop Clear Policy Framework:
Collaborate with IT, HR, and Legal to draft, review, and finalize the remote access policy.
2. Implement Technology Solutions:
Procure and roll out technology solutions for authentication, encryption, and monitoring.
3. Conduct Training Sessions:
Ensure all employees and stakeholders are trained thoroughly on the new policies and toolsets.
4. Set Up an Audit Schedule:
Establish a routine for ongoing audits and compliance checks to identify and rectify potential loopholes.
5. Review and Refine:
* Continuously revisit and update the policy based on new threats and technological advancements.
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Source: How to create a remote access policy, with template
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