4 Ways to Strengthen Your Architecture Firm’s Cyber Security
Is your architecture firm taking cyber security seriously? With valuable client data and intellectual property targeted by cyber criminals, robust protection has become non-negotiable to avoid reputational damage, data leaks, intellectual property theft, legal issues, and financial loss in the event of an attack. In the face of these far-reaching consequences, it’s critical to ensure the right solutions are in place to safeguard your data and business.
Today, we’re taking a closer look at the cyber threats you need to be aware of, 4 best practices to protect sensitive information, and how our team of experts can support you with a comprehensive cyber security strategy.
Common Cyber Threats Targeting Architecture Firms
Better cyber security starts with staying educated, so what are the common risks you and your team need to be aware of?
- Ransomware
Ransomware attacks are one of the most common threats affecting architecture firms. These are a form of malware, and work by encrypting files and demanding a payment to restore access. It’s essential to remember that you shouldn’t pay the ransom – it doesn’t guarantee you’ll get your files back and could lead to another attack in future. - Phishing
These scams prey on human error, and they’re becoming more realistic as cyber criminals leverage AI. Phishing emails imitate trusted people or organisations and use social engineering to manipulate recipients, prompting them to click on malicious links or provide information.
Business Email Compromise (BEC) is a form of phishing regularly targeting architecture firms, with hackers posing as people higher up in the company (such as C-suite executives), vendors, or clients to request money (in the form of invoices or requests to transfer funds) or confidential information. These scams are personalised and targeted, and can even be sent from compromised email accounts increasing their legitimacy.
- Insider Threats
Insider threats can be malicious or accidental, and come from within the company. Malicious insider threats can see unhappy current or past staff, or individuals with authorised access to networks and systems, deleting or stealing information.
On the other hand, accidental insider threats are unintentional, and happen when data is stolen or lost through human error. This often results from a lack of cyber security awareness when employees can’t spot threats (like phishing emails) and aren’t aware of best practices. Insider threats can also occur because of third-party risks, such as vendors with compromised accounts.
- Cloud Security Vulnerabilities
Cloud solutions are a mainstay of your operations, and while they supply critical design software, collaboration tools, project management platforms, and storage solutions, they can also increase risk. Cyber criminals can exploit these cloud services when they aren’t configured properly or updated regularly.
4 Ways to Improve Cyber Resilience
Now you’re aware of the top threats architecture firms are facing, let’s dive into best practices.
- Regularly Back Up Data
Backing up your data ensures you can still access it following a ransomware attack, disaster, hardware failure, or if it’s deleted through error or a malicious insider threat. Backups should occur regularly across multiple locations, including on-premises and cloud solutions.
- Implement Employee Training
This is essential to keep your team on top of best practices and aware of changing cyber attacks. The threat landscape is ever evolving so this training should occur regularly, which also fosters a cyber aware culture in the workplace.
- Use Strong Password Policies
Weak login credentials leave your business vulnerable, so ensuring your team follows strong password policies is a priority. Passwords need to contain 12 – 14+ characters (combine uppercase and lowercase letters, symbols, and numbers), shouldn’t include easily guessed information (birthdays, names, etc.), and you should implement multi-factor authentication wherever possible. You should also never reuse passwords. - Invest in Cyber Security Measures
Investing in preventative measures now costs much less than recovering from a cyber attack in the future.Robust cyber security safeguards project details, designs, and financial data, while also providing peace of mind for your team and clients. Working with a security-focused managed service provider (MSP) is a great option to build your cyber posture with leading tools and expert guidance.
How Insource IT Can Help
At Insource IT, we’ve worked with a range of architecture firms to strengthen their cyber security. We pair this industry specific experience with in-depth knowledge and cutting-edge tools, ensuring your business can operate securely. You’ll also get peace of mind knowing Insource IT is ISO 27001 certified. Get in touch with us today, and we can start enhancing your cyber resilience and avoid devastating consequences.