Unveiling the Framework: A Guide for Businesses to Ensure Their IT Service Partners Prioritise Security.
In an era where small and midsized businesses heavily rely on IT service partners to fortify their digital fortresses, the question arises: Is your Managed Service Provider (MSP) truly committed to cybersecurity, or are they inadvertently becoming a source of cyber risk? In the wake of high-profile cyberattacks on MSP vendors like Kaseya and SolarWinds, businesses must scrutinise their IT service providers to ascertain their dedication to security.
The Internal Security Litmus Test:
Assessing the internal security framework of an IT services company is paramount. It should be more than a random collection of tools; instead, a repeatable and documented framework enforced by leadership. Here's how businesses can probe into the security posture:
- Data Handling Policies: Enforce clear standards for handling sensitive data, including encryption, access limitations, and password management.
- Risk Management and Audits: Ensure adherence to established frameworks like NIST Cybersecurity Framework or ISO 27001, with transparency about audit frequency.
Mitigating Insider Threats:
Effective management of insider threats is crucial, requiring robust onboarding and offboarding processes and continuous cybersecurity awareness training. New staff must be educated on safe network use, and departing employees promptly removed from systems. An IT partner's HR processes should be thoroughly examined during the screening process.
Supply Chain Safeguards:
In an environment where supply chain attacks surged by over 40% last year, a vigilant MSP should insulate clients from vendor compromises. A layered security system, external and internal firewalls, malware protection, and Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) are essential components of this defence strategy.
Network Security Monitoring:
Given that almost all MSPs have faced successful cyberattacks in the past 18 months, robust network security monitoring is non-negotiable. A mature IT services firm should have clear policies, communication plans, and defined roles for managing cyber threats, coupled with internal forensics to determine the extent of cyber events.
In essence, businesses must engage with their MSPs in detailed discussions about these security measures. If an IT services firm cannot openly and comprehensively address these aspects, it may indicate an immature approach to security, potentially putting businesses at risk. As the cybersecurity landscape evolves, businesses must demand transparency and commitment from their IT service partners to fortify their digital resilience.
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