A cyber risk assessment is an evaluation of a company’s security status and potential areas of vulnerability and cyber threats. It aims at identifying threats, assessing the risks, controlling risks, and recording the findings. Cyber risk assessment is essential for any business that depends on computer systems, networks, and other technologies.
A cyber risk assessment is usually conducted by a skilled security expert, and it involves inspecting, testing, and evaluating the existing security infrastructure and policies, as well as mapping any risks, threats, and vulnerabilities. Below, we’ll discuss cyber risks and what you can do regarding the risk management process to mitigate them and protect your information assets.
What Is a Cyber Risk?
Cyber risk refers to the potential for financial loss or a damaged reputation due to data breaches, poorly functioning cybersecurity systems, cyber-attacks, or other cyber-related threats. The losses can also include data loss and information on your customer or employees. These losses can be either lower or high risk based on the strength of your safety network and the size and nature of the threat.
Whether you are a large or small business owner, it’s essential to check your current information management system frequently to ensure it is efficient and up to date. The best way to do this is through cyber risk assessment.
How To Perform A Cyber Risk Assessment
A cyber risk assessment helps identify vulnerabilities and threats, allowing you to take proactive steps to mitigate the chances of a successful attack. Conducting this assessment means knowing the likelihood of your organisation being threatened, where the weak areas are, and the type of data you should protect. The risk assessment process involves the following steps:
- Identify informational assets – First, you need to identify any asset that can be compromised in a cyber attack. This could be networks, data, applications, or people.
- Identify weakness – Spot any vulnerabilities that could be exploited by cybercriminals, such as weak passwords and a lack of security patches.
- Recognise threats – You should also understand the potential cyber threats that could be used to exploit the identified weaknesses. It is also important to estimate the possible financial and reputational damage that could be caused by cyber-attacks.
- Develop mitigation strategies – Create security strategies to reduce the chances of a successful cyber attack.
- Monitor and control – Monitoring, controlling, and adjusting your strategies can help address new risks.
One of the most effective ways to control cyber risks and protect your informational assets is to obtain ISO 27001 certification.
What Is ISO 27001 Certification?
ISO 27001 certification is a globally accepted standard that provides requirements for an Information Security Management System (ISMS). It sets out procedures and policies that must be followed to maintain secure information systems and safeguard sensitive data.
An information security risk assessment is necessary to ensure your organisation’s practices meet international requirements. Large companies may consider creating an in-house security team to handle the firm’s cyber security needs.
But if you have a small business and cannot afford to maintain an entire IT department, you can outsource this service to a specialised third-party company like Best Practice Certification.
Contact Best Practice Certification For Support
Contact the security experts at Best Practice Certification if you need help conducting a cyber risk assessment. We can evaluate your information assets and advise you on the best solutions to meet your business needs. Contact us today to learn more about our cyber risk assessment services or how to get ISO 27001 certification for the first time.
