Why Regular Cybersecurity Testing is Critical for Your Business

Effective cybersecurity is all about being proactive—safeguarding your organization against threats and having procedures in place beforehand so you can bounce back quickly after a breach.

However, many business owners face the same issues: How do I be proactive with cybersecurity? How do I know what attacks could be used against me? How do I decide which defenses will be most effective?

Cybersecurity testing is designed to resolve these concerns and more, helping you create a detailed, comprehensive plan to keep your business safe.

What Is Cybersecurity Testing?

Cybersecurity testing involves evaluating IT systems, including networks, databases, software, etc., and identifying their potential vulnerabilities to make them more secure. Many types of assessments can be done, each with slightly different methods and objectives:

• Penetration Testing involves running a cyberattack simulation to find gaps in a system and determine what level of threat it presents.

• Vulnerability Assessments are usually performed through scans of endpoints, networks, etc., to find vulnerabilities such as outdated software.

• Security Audits are generally more intense, detailed looks into entire security systems, and they often involve comparing the system to some sort of regulation or standard.

• Risk Assessments focus on determining what threats could affect a business and the level and type of damage they could lead to.

More specific kinds of tests can be run for more niche needs, but the main goal of any cybersecurity assessment is to identify weak points, test defenses, and improve security posture.

Why Does It Matter?

With cyberattacks on the rise, organizations simply can not operate safely without proper cybersecurity testing and planning. From 2021 to 2023, the number of data breaches increased by a staggering 72%, and a majority of these targeted businesses.

These threats come in all forms, from phishing emails and ransomware to DDoS attacks, and their consequences can be devastating. Financial losses can reach into the millions, and sensitive data can be lost or compromised. You also risk hits to client loyalty and your reputation, as consumers tend to be wary of companies that experience cybersecurity incidents.

What Are the Benefits of Regular Cybersecurity Testing?

With frequent, effective cybersecurity testing, you're more likely to avoid data breaches or other cyber incidents and their consequences. But how exactly do these tests do that?

• Any gaps or weak points in your security or infrastructure will be caught before they become bigger problems, and you can get an early start on reinforcements.

• You’ll ensure that your IT is compliant with industry regulations, protecting you from fines and client data from being used maliciously.

• With a more thorough understanding of your system's vulnerabilities and the threats you're most likely to face, you can develop stronger incident response plans (IRPs) and be more prepared to combat and recover from attacks.

• Testing leads to stronger systems, which leads to fewer breaches, which leads to firm customer trust and a reputation of safety and security for your organization.

How Often Should I Run Cybersecurity Tests?

Depending on the size of your business, the data you handle, and your risk profile, different tests can be run at different intervals. For example, automatic vulnerability scans can be run every week if a regular testing cadence is needed. More involved tests, like security audits, can be done periodically but less often. Consult an IT expert to determine the best routine for you.

In addition to your normal testing schedule, it's always a good idea to conduct tests after any major changes to your IT infrastructure. If you've gone through a large system update, installed new software or hardware, or had a recent data loss incident, it's a good idea to run a test to ensure your plans are as current and effective as possible.

Should I Outsource My Cybersecurity Testing?

It may seem simpler to run your cybersecurity tests in-house, but hiring a professional, third-party team to perform your assessments gives you access to better and more accurate insights.

An internal IT team is used to how your technology is set up, so they may not catch small deficiencies or room for improvement. They also might not have as much experience performing tests on different systems.

Meanwhile, a professional external team has access to advanced tools and testing methods, and they provide a fresh set of eyes trained to understand how to improve different systems. Outsourced testing also has the benefit of being unbiased—the politics or other dynamics of your team won't influence the assessment, leading to more accurate results.

Schedule an IT Checkup with ICS

At Integrated Computer Services, we’re experts at making your technology safer and more effective. With us, you can always expect proactive solutions focused on your success and safety, current insights on the latest threats, and a strong dedication to making your cybersecurity work for you.

And it all starts with thorough cybersecurity testing. Schedule your complimentary assessment today to get started.