Improving Information Security?

Information security protects information and information systems that store, use and transmit data from a wide range of threats. Although no system is completely protected against breaches of information security, there are certain steps an organisation should take to reduce the risk.

A secure password

Using passwords is one of the most basic methods of improving information security. Although passwords can be hacked, a lot of the time computer access can be attained through sheer carelessness.  For example, ‘Password' is the most commonly used password. At least give the attacker some work to do! Don't grant him access in less than a second. You also wouldn't believe how many people have their password written on a post-it note, which is stuck to their computer. To make your computer as secure as possible, users should create passwords that use a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols, and avoid easily guessed combinations such as birthdays or family names. It is recommended that you change your password every few months and have a separate password for every account.

Antivirus and malware protection

Antivirus software is one of the best ways to improve information security. Hackers can gain access to confidential data through malware, which includes computer viruses, spyware, worms and other programs. These pieces of code are installed on computers to steal information, limit usability, record user actions, or destroy data. Antivirus programs will scan your entire system to check for any known malicious software, and most will warn the user if he or she is on a webpage that contains a potential virus.

Antivirus programs are an important way to protect your system from possible attacks. They do however need regular updates to ensure they remain effective.

Firewalls

Together with an antivirus program, firewalls will significantly increase information security by helping to reduce the chance of an attack. A firewall will filter information that passes through and will only allow authorised content in. Specific websites and words can be blocked from entering the network and will help to keep potential hackers out on the system.

Encryption

Encoding data is one of the oldest ways of securing written information and goes back thousands of years. A simple code such as matching numbers and letters or more complicated algorithms can help protect information. Organisations should consider certain security methods such as an asymmetric key system, where only the sender and the receiver have the code that allows the data to be read.

Simple common sense is a great way of maintaining information security. Many security breaches derive from human error.  There are more and more sophisticated scams that should encourage people to be vigilant. Employees need to be trained in information security so they learn to question potential emails that can look official or even people within the building who do not have clearance. Information security is an important aspect for businesses and time should be spent training relevant staff in how to protect themselves and the organisation.