45% of U.S. companies experienced a data breach in 2023. When you first experience a data breach, the automatic go-to is to panic!
While this fear is understandable, it is important to respond correctly and swiftly to help minimize the damage caused by a cyber security breach. The critical steps for a data breach response include:
1. Contain the Breach
Once you’ve determined there’s been a security incident, work to contain it as soon as possible. The last thing you need after a breach is any additional damage being done. Containing it just might be the saving grace in your investigation into the attack.
This step takes the form of network or server isolation, disabling user accounts, and closing any malicious URLs or websites. Enlist the help of an IT expert like a managed service provider so you’re not left doing the guesswork.
2. Assess the Situation & Fix Vulnerabilities
Now that you have the breach contained it’s time to assess what has happened and what information was stolen. Start by documenting all activities surrounding the breach, such as when it began, how long it went under, and what caused the attack.
Reviewing all of your security logs and looking for any indicators of compromise can assist you in the when and what. Work with your service providers to fix any vulnerabilities—putting a stop to any future breaches.
3. Implement a Breach Notification Plan
Once you have identified the breach, you should notify anyone who might have been affected or is at risk of being affected by it. This includes management, employees, customers (if their data was compromised), and law enforcement if applicable. Failure to do so in time can result in more consequences and even lawsuits if you’re not careful.
Different compliance regulations apply in different industries indicating how long you have to communicate the breach. It is important to stay up to date on where you fit in and what state or federal regulations apply to your business.
Additionally, you should notify your cyber insurance carrier as soon as possible if you have one.
4. Disaster Recovery Plan
A crucial part of cybersecurity preparedness is already having a disaster recovery plan in place. If it’s something you don’t have yet, it’s time to get one in place so you don’t make the same mistake twice. This plan should include some of the following steps:
- Establish roles and responsibilities for data breach response
- Develop a process for assessing the scope of the breach, including identifying any affected systems or data
- Identify who needs to be notified, both internally and externally
- Create a timeline for when certain actions must be taken
Data Breach Prevention Methods
What’s better than a quick recovery? Not having to recover from anything in the first place. Prevention is always the best route. Here are some steps you can take to help prevent a data breach:
- Keep software up to date—this helps ensure any vulnerabilities are patched as soon as possible
- Have strong passwords and update them regularly
- Regularly back up data and store it securely offsite
- Train employees on cybersecurity best practices like not clicking on suspicious links
- Monitor the network for any signs of malicious activity
- Install antivirus software and other security tools on all devices
- Have multifactor authentication enabled to protect user accounts
By taking these steps, you can greatly help minimize the risk of a data breach so you’re not like one of the 49.6 million victims affected in 2022.
Experience a Swift Data Breach Response Recovery with adrytech
At adrytech, we provide comprehensive cybersecurity services and solutions to help you protect your business. From preventing a breach in the first place to responding swiftly and effectively if you do have one—we are committed to helping ensure your data is protected.
At adrytech, we’re here to make the unexpected more manageable and your data breach response much more effective. Contact us today and experience it for yourself!
