→ Business guide to Security

Security opportunities and challenges

We've been told by you that Information Security is you biggest concern.1

There are many topics that sit under the broad heading of information security. These can be broken down into vulnerabilities that place your organisation at risk, and then cyber security systems, processes and technologies that protect your business from attacks. It also makes sense to consider networking and connectivity as part of your information security strategy.

→ Introduction

Vulnerabilities and risks are increasing

A mix of evolving technologies, cultural changes and external forces make today’s businesses especially vulnerable.

→ Cloud adoption

Public cloud and SaaS services like Azure, AWS and Microsoft 365 are inherently secure. But the point where they are configured to connect with your business is a potential weak spot that can leave you at risk.2

→ New workstyles

The widespread adoption of hybrid working means many employees regularly work outside the protection of the corporate network, often using personal devices and apps for work. This dramatically increases your business’s attack surface.

→ Limited expertise

85% of businesses say workforce shortages are impacting their ability to secure their IT systems and networks.3 This situation is intensified by the growing complexity of securing a modern digital business, which can involve up to 40 separate software tools and services.4

%

have considered quitting the industry due to stress5

→ Resourcing challenges

Closely related is the sheer emotional toll that comes with a career in information security: 46% have considered quitting the industry due to stress,5 with 51% experiencing extreme stress and burnout.6 This can make your cyber security teams more prone to poor judgement and other mistakes.

→ Systemic stress

The impact of the global economic downturn and instability means many employees through your business may be anxious about job security and rising living costs. In these circumstances, “people become distracted and unhappy at work, making it much easier for threat actors to exploit human weaknesses.”7

At the same time, longstanding operational vulnerabilities – from patching and updates to running outdated software – remain as critical as ever.

Cyber security threats are evolving and intensifying

Cyber criminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated and skilful at evading cyber security systems and processes. For example:

→ Ransomware attacks grew 33%8 in 2022 and will keep growing in 2023. They are expected to be targeted more intensively at critical national infrastructure, and at organisations in healthcare, finance and education.9

→ Social engineering is among the most widespread forms of cyber crime, seeking to manipulate employees’ natural sense of trust into giving up valuable information.10

→ Phishing attacks that embed links to malware in legitimate-looking emails are also on the rise,11 and are a particular threat for employees working outside well-protected corporate networks.

Putting you on the path to resilience

At Ultima, we help businesses to regain the initiative in the battle against external and internal risks and threats across vulnerability management, cyber security and secure connectivity.

We believe that taking a systematic approach to tackling risks and threats delivers the best results for our customers. We start by assessing your current situation and advise you on what’s needed to tackle your issue – whether that’s a specific pain point or a wider strategic priority. Then we’ll design and deliver your security or network solution, with additional options that range from expert 24/7 technical support to delivering a full managed service.

Let’s continue the journey

To chat through your cloud goals and challenges with an Ultima expert, contact us today.

Get in touch

1. Source: Ultima [Managed Cloud Service Overview]