The cyber risk landscape is ever-evolving, so data centers can’t rest on their laurels. Since bad actors continue to find ways to wreak havoc, data centers need to know what to look out for.
If you run a data center, you’ll want to know how to respond when — not if — your business is on the receiving end of cyberattacks. Cybersecurity refers to the process of safeguarding computer systems and networks from unauthorized access. If your data center is unsuccessful on this front, malicious parties may gain access to confidential information. The end result can be financial harm, regulatory fines, and reputational damage. It might also cost you your company.
Failing to plan is akin to planning to fail. So, continue reading to learn about the main cybersecurity risks data centers must be on the lookout for in 2023.
Overworked Cybersecurity Staff
According to one report, there’s a global shortage of 3.4 million cybersecurity workers. That’s the case even though there are an estimated 4.7 million global cybersecurity professionals — an all-time high. If you have a talent shortage at your data center, you can bet that you have too few workers taking on too much work. And overworked staff are prone to burnout and human error.
If you want your cybersecurity staff to be on their toes, you must ensure you’re adequately staffed. Otherwise, you’ll find it hard to keep up with, let alone combat, cybersecurity threats. Whether you hire more staff or outsource cybersecurity tasks, you need sufficient staffing.
Cybercriminals Getting Around Data Center Security Protocols
Another cybersecurity risk to be mindful of is the penchant for cybercriminals to evade the security measures put in place by data centers. Many determined cybercriminals are turning to endpoint detection and response and multi-factor authentication tools to wreak havoc.
Such tools can make it easier for cybercriminals to take advantage of data center computer systems and networks. This means that your data center’s cybersecurity team members need to be on their toes, be proactive rather than reactive, and be on the lookout for thwart attacks.
Physical Data Center Security Issues
When it comes to security challenges, the risks aren’t just about computer systems and networks. You also need to be mindful of physical data center security. Cybercriminals can cause harm by tapping into the operational technology you have in your data center.
For instance, a cybercriminal could damage your data center operations by, among other things, taking your power supplies, HVAC system, or other essential resources offline to create a downtime situation that hurts efficiency. What does that mean for your data center?
You need to invest in the tools to safeguard operational technology and pump more resources into physical security such as wireless cameras, stronger access control measures, and better policies to allow access on an as-needed basis.
Ransomware Still a Pressing Issue
Ransomware was a serious issue for businesses and individuals in 2022, and it’s expected to be a problem this year as well. One study finds that one of four beaches in 2022 was the result of a ransomware attack, and almost seven of 10 businesses were impacted by ransomware in 2021. Perhaps your data center has already experienced a ransomware attack. You need to invest in a comprehensive anti-ransomware strategy that includes ransomware monitoring.
These are some of the cybersecurity threats your data center needs to be on the lookout for this year. The threat landscape is fierce, and only a comprehensive strategy will yield good results. And remember that as you meet the challenges of the year and, hopefully, wrap up 2023 in good standing, you’ll need to gear up for the challenges that’ll be waiting for you next year.
The truth of the matter is that cybersecurity risks will always be there in one form or another.
