One of the most common mistakes businesses make when trying to improve online security is focusing only on safety measures and protection. Unfortunately, as much effort as we put into protecting our networks, systems, and devices, hackers are consistently developing more sophisticated methods that they’re using for malicious purposes. In other words, no matter how much you try to protect your business, there is still a possibility that your company will become a victim of a cyber-attack. The only question is whether you and your team are ready for what happens after the attack?
It is very important to have a response plan in case things go the wrong way. Some cyber-attacks are simply too difficult or even impossible to stop or predict, which means that the best way to fight against them is to have an effective response plan. Following the CIS 20 controls will give you an idea of what this response plan needs to look like. To help you leverage these cybersecurity guidelines, we’ve created a list of CIS controls that you need to focus on when it comes to making a response plan.
1. CIS Control No. 8 – MALWARE DEFENSES
The first CIS control that will come in handy in case of a cyber-attack is called malware defenses. The control teaches the user how to control the installation and keep the spread of malware at a minimum. Furthermore, it allows the user to optimize various forms of automation in order to keep the defense systems up to date and collect data as well.
2. CIS Control No. 10 – DATA RECOVERY CAPABILITIES
The data recovery capabilities control provides the necessary tools that can be used to back up important files and information. In case your device gets hacked or compromised in any way, you can access your data thanks to automatic backups and prevent data loss.
3. CIS Control No. 12 – BOUNDARY DEFENSE
The 12th control deals with boundary defense, that is, sets boundaries within your network. Through this control, you will learn how to allow access to certain data only to trusted people and IP addresses. Furthermore, this control touches up on the use of IDS sensors or the Intrusion Detection Systems Sensors which constantly monitor the situation and look for unusual attack mechanisms.
4. CIS Control No. 19 – INCIDENT RESPONSE AND MANAGEMENT
This is certainly the most important CIS control that you will have to focus on when responding to a cyber-attack. This control will teach you and your team how to develop a response infrastructure for unwanted cyber incidents, as well as contain the damage before it spreads even further.
Overall, the CIS 20 controls can do a lot more for you than just teach you how to properly respond to cybersecurity incident. In case you want to leverage the full potential of the security framework, make sure to inform yourself on the importance of the 20 controls, as well as how they can be implemented in different businesses.