12 September 2017

How to prepare your rental company for a cyberattack in four steps

Our ERP systems are packed with data seamlessly flowing from one department to another. With the threat of cyberattacks growing every day, it is more important than ever to protect our data. If a cyberattack is big enough, it can affect everyone—not only because your data can be compromised, corrupted, deleted, or altered, but also because our economy, utility grids, and transportation systems are all heavily reliant upon computers. Consequently, this makes us very vulnerable to such an attack.

The ERP Cybersecurity Survey 2017 conducted by Crowd Research Partners and ERP Scan interviewed more than 1,900 cybersecurity experts. They found that 89% expect to see an increase in attacks on ERP systems. According to the report, there is a general lack of awareness regarding ERP security. Organizations aren’t informed about who is responsible for their security.

So, how do you prepare your rental company for a cyberattack?

Cyberattack, how do you prepare you rental company
Image 1: Most cyberattacks so far have been opportunistic: they look for holes in your system.

Make sure your system is as safe  as possible

Most hacks so far have been opportunistic: they look for holes in your system. It is important for organizations to have a clear view of the risks they face. Every large rental company knows that merely installing a strong firewall and updating your system regularly is not enough. Companies can do much more, for example you can:

  • Limit data transferability.
  • Have your system patched on a regular basis.
  • Employ open source detection tools.
  • Use file integrity monitoring.
  • Review your source code.
  • Make sure employees have only access to data that they need.
  • Inform them about typical hacker attempts.

Recognizing and responding to a breach

Your response is just as important as the security of your system. Sometimes, companies do not recognize breaches immediately. Make sure you train your employees intensively and on a regular basis. The quicker the response, the smaller the damage. Have clearly stated protocols in place throughout your company.

Identify key assets

It may be cost prohibitive to protect the entire enterprise. Before creating a cyber incident plan, an organization should determine which of its data, assets, and services warrant the most protection.

Prepare for a cyberattack, identify key assets
Image 2: Prepare for a cyberattack, identify key assets

Consider the human element

Artificial intelligence can help, but do not forget the human factor. According to Cyrus Walker, CEO of Chicago-based Data Defenders, research demonstrates that approximately 80% of security-related incidents are a result of employee behavior. Consequently, it is vital to test your organizational response and adapt to changing circumstances.

Curious about DynaRent? We’re more than happy to provide you with a tailored demonstration. Please contact us at info@to-increase to discuss.

Michiel Toppers
Michiel Toppers,
Michiel Toppers,
Senior Director of Product Management

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