With the Internet ruling our lives, the security of devices and information transfer across the Internet is of paramount importance. Even a minute opening or weakness is enough for cybercriminals to make a breach, and the results can be disastrous. In a business scenario, especially with remote working picking up during the COVID pandemic times, cyber security has become all the more important.
What is an Endpoint?
Employees use various devices to connect to a business network. These may include but not be limited to laptops, tablets, IoT devices, etc. These devices are called endpoints. From a process, cyber security, and business perspective, every device is a potential risk since it offers a path for cybercriminals to steal data.
According to research by the Ponemon Institute, in 2020, the average cost of endpoint attacks has increased from $7.1 million to $8.94 million, and attack frequency has also increased.
Why is Endpoint Security Important?
Endpoint security is important because it is needed to prevent the following
1) Loss of productivity
Any loss in individual, departmental, or team productivity translates to lost revenue. This will have a direct impact on the top and bottom lines of organizations. Further, there is always the feeling of insecurity even after things are set back to normal and additional resources may be required to monitor and prevent an endpoint attack.
2) System downtime
Total downtime is the worst that can happen to organizations, crippling their services and operations. Further, a security compromise can also lead to missed deadlines.
3) Reputation Loss
Any security compromise or cyber attack can have a hugely adverse effect on brand value and reputation. Further, with a background of cyber-attack, any acquisition of new clients also becomes a challenge.
4) Legal cost
Any security compromise or data breach can open up Pandora’s box. Depending on the contract terms and conditions, there may be penalties, legal action from clients, and even regulatory oversight and intervention.
The below are some of the challenges in maintaining endpoint security include but are not limited to
5) Remote Working
With the pandemic setting the tone for remote working, there is no doubt that it is here to stay. Hence, one cannot completely prevent employees from accessing business networks through various devices. However, what can be done is to educate employees and also ensure strong protection of devices and networks, as well as limit the number of devices.
6) Applications
The various tools and applications used themselves can be an avenue for cyber-attacks. Before onboarding various essential or non-essential tools, it is important to judge what these tools are capable of and how they operate. Many of these tools freely communicate backend data to their own servers and have provisions to analyze and utilize it.
7) Overall visibility
A company can have multiple avenues to access its networks and multiple touchpoints to interact with other third parties and services. Sometimes, work locations and employees may be spread across various geographies and time zones. Considering the above, it is difficult to bring overall perspective and visibility to any endpoint. Sometimes, some malware may be present undetected in the network and suddenly spring a surprise. Such cases have also been recorded.
8) Shortage of Skilled Personnel
Cyber security is a specialized field and requires a good understanding of all aspects of a business. It is rapidly evolving and requires personnel to update themselves on various aspects continuously. Since this is a niche field, the availability of skilled and experienced resources is also a challenge. It is only by a combination of the right tools and competent people that any organization can successfully maintain high levels of cyber security.
What makes GRhombustech Unique?
Grhombustech is among the top pen testing companies in the UK and brings the ability to offer custom security solutions to any organization. With advanced analysis tools, mapping, testing, and documentation, we deliver a comprehensive solution to any project. Our team of experts serves clients across Europe, UK, USA, Middle East, and we are committed to nourishing long-term relationships with them. GRhombus has also established itself as a pioneer in data visualization, IoT testing, Salesforce development, and cloud testing.