Cyber Safety in the Workplace and How One Tool can Boost It

“As cybersecurity leaders, we have to create our message of influence because security is a culture, and you need the business to take place and be part of that security culture.”—Britney Hommertzheim, Director, Information Security, AMC Theaters.

What is cyber safety?

Cyber safety is the protection of all systems that connect to the internet. Unauthorized access to the data of individuals and the company has become very common these days. Therefore, increased cybersecurity against such cyber threats is crucial.

Once you have a sound cyber safety system in place, it will protect you from unforeseen cyber attacks. Your users and organization’s systems and data must be safe. Otherwise, one can access, alter, eradicate, or extort sensitive information.

Why is cyber safety essential?

As the world inches closer to going entirely online and IT stretches itself into the workforce, people are exposed to cyberattacks now more than ever. Moreover, the increase in users, devices, and programs comes with sensitive or confidential data baggage. Many organizations have upped their game by implementing advanced cyber safety systems across all networks to protect their data. Companies from the UAE are explained by the experts working for cybersecurity company Dubai that the right infrastructure, tools, and policies can help protect the organization from potential cyberattacks. For instance, implementing a secure virtual private network (VPN) can help protect data while working remotely. Conversely, not having a secure VPN can leave sensitive data vulnerable to hackers.

Many organizations have upped their game by implementing advanced cyber safety systems across all networks to protect their data.

Five tips to improve cyber safety at your workplace

With a cyber safety system in place, you should implement the following security tips in every workplace. It not only safeguards your IT environment but prepares the company to face and quickly recover from an unprecedented cyberattack.

1. Implement a password manager at all levels in the company

Allowing all employees to create their passwords puts company data at risk. Most of the user-generated passwords are entirely unsafe. Here is where a password manager comes into the picture.

A password manager is an automated tool that generates tough-to-crack passwords and stores them for the users. However, all employees should be trained well and instructed to create different passwords for different company accounts.

2. Update all systems regularly

Hackers are ready to pounce, especially when they see a faulty connection. Updating all links, systems, and applications is better whenever upgraded versions are available. Applying upgrades as soon as possible limits exposure to susceptible cyber attacks.

3. Set plugins and themes to update automatically

For WordPress sites, the easiest way for hackers to infiltrate is through sites with outdated plugins and themes. Therefore, an excellent cyber safety practice to follow is to update WordPress sites regularly to avoid hacking. Website scanners could also be implemented to strengthen the security aspect of the site.

4. Integrate VPNs for connections

Using a generic security system to protect websites will not be sufficient. Integrating VPN connections across the workplace, especially for employees who use public WiFi, will provide a safer networking experience. NordVPN is one of the most trusted VPN service providers according to online users. You can check this particular NordVPN review to find out why.

5. Provide training for security awareness

Some of the cyber threats come from within the organizations themselves. For example, research states that around 60% of data breaches occur due to the negligence of certain employees.

This simple step of training employees to face security issues is inexpensive and efficient. Educating them about the importance of setting solid passwords or locking personal devices will be helpful in the long run. It makes the people at your workplace feel confident about using the company technology and instills a culture of cyber safety preparedness.

The one tool that can boost cyber safety in the workplace

With technology progressing by the day, IT teams are looking to incorporate better security systems at the workplace. This is where companies opt for tools like Okta that can enable the secure adoption of web applications. Okta is an identity management platform with some top—notch features, making it a favorite tool of most organizations.

Okta has many features related to companies’ identity and access management. As a result, the cloud-based software application has gained customers' trust. However, companies are looking for alternatives due to the spike in prices. In addition, the pandemic has forced companies to cut costs.

Features of Okta:

Adaptive multi-factor authentication system

Automated lifecycle management

Advanced server access

Secure access to on-premise apps and protection of the hybrid cloud

API access management

Seven cyber safety alternatives to Okta

Companies prefer Okta due to credential management, multi—factor authentication, API access management, universal directory, etc. But when it comes to affordability and value for money, there are many other Okta alternatives that companies can use at their workplace.

1. Zluri

Zluri is a comprehensive SaaS operations management platform. IT teams can manage, discover, secure, and comply with multiple SaaS applications from a single dashboard. Zluri works with some globally renowned security authorities to keep the security infrastructure intact.

Features of Zluri:

Third-party audits and penetration testing to prevent malicious hacking attacks

Auditable log of critical activities to keep you updated

End—to—end encryption using strong and secure algorithms.

Complete SSO controls

All data stored in encrypted form

2. OneLogin

Protecting the workplace from cyber security breaches has become one of the highest priorities for companies. OneLogin uses more robust authentication protocols to access applications and provide multiple security options that the portal can control.

Features of OneLogin:

Single Sign—in

Disable access for employees who have switched roles or have exited from the company

Validates IT identity policy enforcement

Easy access to applications used daily

Quickly onboard/offboard employees

3. Auth0

The goal of Auth0 is to make authorization and authentication easy. With the help of Auth0, you can easily manage and control all identities across your workplace. This service secures your login activities, credentials, and user profiles. The Single Sign—On authentication feature can enable employees to navigate through applications and third-party apps.

Features of Auth0:

High—level and multi—layered security checks

Single Sign-on for multiple applications

Easy database migration

Complies with the best practices of identity management

Brute force protection

4. JumpCloud

JumpCloud is a zero—trust directory platform used to authenticate, authorize, and manage users, devices, and applications. By enabling centralized access, JumpCloud simplifies identity management regardless of the system or the location.

Features of JumpCloud:

Enables control of multiple devices and operating systems through a single console

Cloud LDAP feature gives users access to on-premise, legacy, and open source apps.

Improved ease of use

Group—based access control

Provides ample cloud directory services

5. Ping Identity

Ping Identity is a cloud—based authentication service that connects user identities with mobile devices. No password response is required during the authentication process. All the user has to do is swipe on the authentication request.

Features of Ping Identity:

Provides SSO and secondary authentication solution

Multi—factor authentication for VPN

Passwordless authentication for web authentication

Supports integration with third—party systems

Multiple device management

6. Centrify

Centrify provides privileged identity management. It is enabled with ZeroTrust privileges to secure cyberattacks. It improves end—user productivity by ensuring access to cloud, mobile, and on-premise apps. It is done using an SSO system, multi—factor authentication, and user provisioning. The user must verify who requests access and ask for the context and risks.

Features of Centrify:

Multi—factor authentication

Secure SSO system

Privileged management

Automated account management

Auditing and compliance

7. Duo Security

Duo Security is a cloud—based user verification and device vulnerability assessment system.

Features of Duo Security:

Easy enrollment process to register devices

Customized security policies depending upon the requirements of your organization

Ensure the good health of all devices connected

Double—checks user identities

Secure remote access

Closing out on cyber safety at the workplace

Cyber safety might seem like a complicated and overwhelming topic. It may also look like a pricey component for the company. However, implementing simple steps and using tools such as Zluri can safeguard your company and its confidential data.

Furthermore, seeing the smaller steps work out well, you will be motivated to take significant decisions to keep your organization safe.