Companies need to make software available that will give users the freedom to utilise multiple digital platforms, but secure their information transactions and how this information is classified, retained and processed.
This is a view shared by security specialist at Mimecast, Heino Gevers, who adds that cyber security is a matter that requires not only technical support but also the behavioral awareness of end users.
"Security solutions can be simplified yet sophisticated, but it requires the standardisation and consolidation of information and solutions across a business," says Gevers. "Data fragmentation is an incredible risk for any business, and data should be controlled and monitored in order to provide the most effective protection."
He points out that to create a balance between empowering end users and retaining control over company services and solutions, businesses should educate their users on the dangers of using personal devices like smartphones and tablets in the work environment.
Gevers states, however, that data fragmentation and control continue to be a major barrier to implementing effective gateway measures.
"Due to a lack of resources and infrastructure, companies often turn to multiple services to support their business interactions. Unfortunately, this can result in a lack of control, and companies may be unable to monitor their environment sufficiently - exposing their users to risk and potential security breaches," he explains.
He also notes that the digital world being so global in nature, poses other challenges with malicious threats that local businesses face often linked or even launched by global groups.
"We are seeing an increase in malware as well, which can bypass traditional defence systems and source personal information from applications. This, and social media, are two focal points for cyber-attacks where personal information is being extracted and used maliciously. It is, therefore, essential that people are careful when sharing their personal information across the Internet."
Gevers believes that this has led to a number of businesses centralising their IT solutions and architecture, which improves their overall control of data.
"In fact, businesses are looking to the cloud where they can find scalable solutions and protect themselves proactively."
Gevers encourages individuals to report incidents regarding cyber-attacks as this assists the relevant regulatory bodies (state, private and international) to work collaboratively to fight them, referring to cybercrime.org.za Web site as an example of where such reports can be seen.
"The computer security incident response team (CSIRT) is just one of the many authorities that help the South African public to secure our local cyberspace," he concludes.
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