Cyber security is a pressing concern for all modern businesses, due to the increasing sophistication of attacks. Because of this, many frameworks are being introduced to help them structure their defences. The Australian Cyber Security Centre’s Essential 8 is one such framework, providing a set of best practices that will reduce your business’ vulnerability to cyber-attacks.
What Is the Essential 8?
The Essential 8 is a set of strategies developed by the Australian Cyber Security Centre, or ACSC, to make it easier for businesses of all sizes to protect themselves. It is designed to be flexible and realistic, so that you can adopt it regardless of how many resources are available to you.
- Reduce the risk of cyber-attacks
- Ensure systems can recover quickly after an attack
- Align your business with global standards
The ACSC Essential 8 Cyber Security Checklist
Each part of the Essential 8 cyber security checklist is designed to address a specific risk factor, eventually building a comprehensive defence against cyber-attacks.
Here is a brief overview:
1. Application Control: Prevent unapproved applications from running, reducing the risk of malware and unauthorised software.
2. Patch Applications: Regularly update applications to address vulnerabilities and improve security.
3. Configure Microsoft Office Macro Settings: Limit the use of macros, which are a common vehicle for malware delivery.
4. Application Hardening: Block risky content, such as Flash or Java, to minimise the attack surface.
5. Restrict Admin Privileges: Limit administrative access, to reduce the damage a compromised account can cause.
6. Patch Operating Systems: Keep your systems up-to-date to close security gaps and ensure system integrity.
7. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Require multiple authentication methods, preventing unauthorised access.
8. Daily Backups: Regularly backup critical data, to ensure fast recovery in the event of a breach.
ACSC Essential 8 Maturity Levels
In addition to the strategies listed above, the ACSC provides an Essential 8 cyber security Maturity Model to help you identify how well-protected your business is:
- Level 0: Minimal protection, leaving systems highly vulnerable.
- Level 1: Basic implementation, offering some defense against unsophisticated threats.
- Level 2: Intermediate measures, defending against more advanced threats.
- Level 3: Comprehensive controls for optimal protection.
Benefits of Implementing the Essential 8
1. Protects against ransomware, phishing, and other cyber threats.
2. Aligns with Australian legal and regulatory requirements.
3. Proactive risk management reduces the financial impact of cyber incidents, leading to overall cost savings.
Challenges and Common Missteps
- Prioritisation Issues: If your company is smaller, you may not be able to implement all strategies at once.
- Lack of Regular Updates: Failing to assess and update security measures will reduce their effectiveness over time.
- Misconfigurations: Errors during setup can leave your systems vulnerable.
Getting Started with the Essential 8
1. Conduct a Risk Assessment: Identify vulnerabilities and prioritise security measures based on your maturity level and available resources.
2. Essential 8 Assessment: If you do not understand your current Maturity Level, perform an ACSC Essential 8 assessment to compare your business against the standards required.
3. Develop an Implementation Roadmap: Outline steps for gradual adoption, starting with the most critical measures first.
4. Use Reliable Tools: Leverage resources like ACSC guidelines, compliance software, and training programs.
5. Provide Training: Teach staff what is expected of them, and how to use any new platforms or security solutions.
Uncover Hidden Threats and Improve Your Security
The Essential 8 cyber security framework provides a solid foundation that can protect your business from modern threats. Limited resources might make it difficult to implement all strategies at once, but developing a clear plan and prioritising the most important measures first will help you improve your Maturity Level no matter what your business is working with.
As a leading provider of cyber security services in Perth, Austin Technology understands that it’s easy to let vulnerabilities slip through the cracks. That’s why we provide comprehensive audits to help you spot your weak points before they become a problem. If you’re ready to learn more, get in touch with our security experts today.
