6 Crucial Steps to Follow After a Data Breach Has Struck Your Business

In an age of constant cyber-attacks, everybody knows it’s wise to be cautious against hackers. Unfortunately, even with stringent safety measures in place, sometimes the bad guys get away with infiltration. So what’s the next step if a cyber-attack took place? How should companies respond and regroup?

No Dilly Dallying with Damage-Control:

Technology Writer/Trainer Lance Whitney explains that “Hackers and cybercriminals rely on the failure of consumers and companies alike to properly protect themselves. Once a data breach has occurred, the best course of action is clearly addressing how it happened, how it’s being remedied, and what those affected can do to protect themselves from potential damages.” Here are a few quick tips on how to pick up the pieces after a malicious data breach:

      I.        Immediately Sequester and Quarantine Information Systems:

As soon as a data breach has been detected, the first reaction should be to disable network connectivity.  Especially to the Internet.  Information systems should then be audited to identify and neutralize points of vulnerability.

    II.        Convene a Competent Response Team:

Data breaches automatically mean that affected people need to be notified, and possibly negotiated with, assuming liabilities have emerged.  Any interaction with affected stakeholders should be done with professionalism and courtesy.

   III.        Prepare a Communication Plan:

Announcing the occurrence of a data breach should be done in a timely way. Both verbally, and in writing. Companies should be prepared to make articulate public statements, as well as answer questions about the situation.

   IV.        Contact Law-Enforcement Accordingly:

If cyber-attacks involve the possibility of any future crimes being committed, it’s mandatory to inform law-enforcement agencies about the threat.  Swift coordination with law enforcement can prevent cyber-criminals from gaining the upper hand.

    V.        Purge any Systems Corrupted by the Breach: 

Any devices that have viruses or malware installed in them are essentially obsolete.  They should be decommissioned safely, and replaced with secure systems immediately.

   VI.        Resolve Vulnerabilities that Led to the Breach:

If a data breach happens because of human error, then new policies and disciplines should be introduced. This will prevent repeated malpractice.  Similarly, if a data breach happens because of outdated or inadequate technologies, then systems should be upgraded to strengthen security.

Conclusion:

Cyber-attacks aren’t like ordinary crimes which happen in an instant. The ramifications of a cyber-attack can last for years, depending on what type of data has been compromised. This longevity of risk is the reason why businesses should address cyber-attacks from a forward-looking perspective. If you like what you just read from our blog, you’ll love the various informative courses, workshops, and events listed on our websites and social media. Whether you’re interested in personal development, health and wellness, bettering your relationships, or the overall improvement of your business, give us a call at 1 (800) 913-0222 to find out how Richard Martinez can help you break past your daily struggles and start soaring in success.